5 Practical Tips to Make Your Garments Look Like New
Clothing doesn’t just contribute to your style; it’s an investment. With the right care, you can keep your favorite pieces looking as fresh as the day you bought them. Here are five practical tips to revive worn-out garments and keep them looking like new.
1. Wash Clothes Properly and Use Cold Water
Why it Works: Hot water breaks down fibers more quickly, leading to fading and shrinking. Washing on cold keeps colors vibrant and minimizes wear.
How to Do It: Separate clothes by color and fabric type to avoid dye transfers and fabric pilling. Use mild detergents that are gentle on fibers, and avoid overloading your washing machine—clothes need space to move and rinse effectively.
Extra Tip: Use a mesh bag for delicate items to prevent snags and reduce friction during the wash cycle.
2. Master the Art of Spot Cleaning and Stain Removal
Why it Works: Treating stains quickly can prevent them from setting, while spot cleaning keeps fabric looking pristine without exposing it to the wear of frequent full washes.
How to Do It: Dab (don’t rub) the stain with a clean cloth and mild soap, or a stain remover stick if needed. For tougher stains, products like white vinegar, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide can work wonders.
Extra Tip: Always test a small area first to ensure the cleaning solution doesn’t discolor or damage the fabric. With tricky stains, it's often best to consult garment care labels or an online guide to the specific type of stain.
Fabric Shaver at Clas Ohlson 199 SEK
3. De-Pill with a Fabric Shaver or Razor
Why it Works: Pills can make even high-quality clothing look worn and unkempt, but removing them restores the original look of the fabric.
How to Do It: Use a fabric shaver or a new razor to gently remove pills from sweaters, fleece, and knits. Work carefully in one direction and use gentle pressure to avoid damaging the fabric.
Extra Tip: Lay the garment on a flat surface, keeping it smooth and taut to prevent nicks and ensure an even result. Clean the shaver after each use to maintain efficiency.
4. Steam Instead of Ironing
Why it Works: Ironing can weaken fabric fibers over time, especially with synthetic and delicate materials. Steaming is gentler and works to refresh fabrics while also relaxing fibers, removing wrinkles, and eliminating odors.
How to Do It: Hang the garment on a hanger and pass a handheld steamer over it, keeping a few inches of distance to avoid wet spots. Allow the garment to dry fully before storing or wearing.
Extra Tip: If you don’t have a steamer, you can hang clothes in the bathroom while you shower, as the steam helps smooth out wrinkles and freshens the fabric.
5. Store Clothes Correctly to Prevent Damage
Why it Works: Proper storage reduces wrinkles, prevents fading, and avoids damage from exposure to dust and sunlight.
How to Do It: Fold heavy knits, as hanging them can cause stretching. Use padded or non-slip hangers for more delicate items and cover them with breathable garment bags to shield from dust. Store your clothes in a cool, dry place to prevent mildew.
Extra Tip: Add sachets of lavender or cedar to your closet to keep garments smelling fresh and to repel moths and other pests that can damage fabric.
With these five steps, you can extend the life of your clothes, keep them looking fresh, and reduce your overall environmental footprint by buying less frequently. By making garment care a routine, you’ll enjoy looking your best in pieces that stay stylish and new.