
Stay cool and spot clean: how to make clothes last by washing them correctly
Laundry cycles wear out fabrics – so try steaming, airing and slower cycles on the washing machine [or washing less!]
Laura de Barra
Wed 7 Aug 2024 02.00 EDT
Excerpt: "Laundry cycles are stressful for clothes due to the agitation, heat and general chaos they must endure each time. A jaunt in the drum can lead to excessive fibre loss; dyes can fade and garments can lose their shape.
Instead of just chucking an item of clothing in the laundry basket at the end of the day, take a look at it. Does it really need to be washed? Allowing a garment to skip unnecessary washing cycles will instantly prolong its life.
Freshen it up
For gently worn, fragile or fast-fashion garments, try these alternatives to a wash.
Air it A good old-fashioned airing can do a garment the world of good. For best results, hang it inside out, outdoors, for a few hours.
Steam is fast becoming the darling of the laundry world. This method is low on risk and high on reward, making it essential for garments you love. Steaming will eliminate odours, freshen up fibres and, of course, remove wrinkles, all without the use of any toxic chemicals. You can choose from a range of appliances to fulfil your steam dreams, from steam washing machines to steam wardrobes. However, the most popular is still the trusty handheld steamer.
Spot cleaning Never underestimate a gentle spot clean instead of a full wash. For grease stains, massage on a dab of washing-up liquid. For protein stains, opt for vinegar. If in doubt, use a shop-bought stain remover [or not! Baking soda, peroxide can also remove stains -- test a spot first]."
Learn more:
https://www.theguardian.com/money/article/2024/aug/07/clean-clothes-washing-laundry-machine?utm_source=pocket-newtab-en-us
#SolarPunkSunday #Clothing #Laundry #MakeClothesLast #BuyLess!


