Nowadays fast fashion offers incredibly low prices of clothes and accessories. The low value makes it easier to buy a new one rather than take care of or repair the old one. This attitude together with the ever so strong consumer mindset lead to careless disposal.
Most of these products end up in the landfills or in the ocean. Only very small part of the mass-produced clothing is actually re- or upcycled and over 60% are made of synthetic fibers. The processes involved in producing the simplest garment often involve the use of harsh chemicals. The equivalent of one garbage truck full of those is burned or dumped in a landfill or in the ocean every second.
Extending the life of your wardrobe is good way to take part in the global movement to save Planet. With something as simple as taking care of our own clothing we can make an impact. An impact for good. And lest we forget – it is good for our finances, isn’t it finances.
Let us share with you few ways to make your outfits last longer
Wash less
The more you wash clothes, the quicker they wear off. Each washing causes fabrics to break down and thousands of micro fibers are released with the water.
Wash by hand in cold water
Washing machines cause colors to fade faster, elastic pars stretch and fibers to weaken. The damage, the nature of their operation causes, is further helped by the use of hot water. Although hot water is useful to remove stubborn stains, it also wears off fabrics considerably quicker.
If you really have to wash in washing machine, use a low heat option and put delicate fabrics in a laundry bag to reduce tearing.
Reduce the amount of detergent
More detergent does not equal cleaner. The excessive detergent often remains locked in or on the surface of your clothing leaving the finish dull and stiff. If not rinsed thoroughly, the remaining detergent might cause allergic reactions.
Use half of the recommended amount of detergent and ad half a cup of baking soda. Baking soda acts as detergent booster and improves overall cleaning. This will make your clothes just as clean as regularly but will help reduce the footprint your home leaves.
Air dry your clothes
Heat dryers damage so much the fabric over time. They cause shrinkage, color fading, and weaken the fibers.
Avoid dry-cleaning
Although the mechanical impact on the clothes is greatly reduced, the process of dry-cleaning involves the use of harsh chemicals. They not only harm the fabric but more often than not, are not disposed properly thus harming the environment too.
Buy quality pieces
Invest in well-made garments and good-quality fabrics. They will serve you longer and will reduce cost in longer term.
Check well every item you buy – the quality of the seams, the finishing and overall appearance.
Changing our mindset is the sole most important step towards a better life. And yes – that does include what we wear and how we take care of it. After all we wear clothes every day, aren’t we? Well, at least the majority of us.
How do you take care of your garments?
What are your secrets?
Share with us in the comments.