Make those clothes last!

Fine clothing requires proper care. Here are a few ways to increase the lifespan of your wardrobe.

• Clothing with more than 60 percent polyester or rayon should always be dry cleaned. These types of fabrics have a tendency to discolor when the dyes mix with your body oil.
• Be sure to follow the care instructions — do not remove care labels.
• Hanging up garments immediately may sound elementary, but when you’re tired after an evening out, or a hard day at the office it’s tempting to just toss them over the back a chair. But be sure to hang them up right away so the wrinkles fall out.
• After wearing, empty your pockets to keep garments from sagging or tearing. Check them carefully for rips, tears and stains. If they are in need of repair, be sure to bring them in for immediate attention before you have them cleaned.
• Before storing for the season, have them properly cleaned. Storing not-quite-clean clothing can result in moth damage, stains setting and mildewing.
• Just as we need to treat ourselves more gently as we mature, so do older garments require a more gentle approach when laundering. Using cold or warm water, rather than hot water, is not only easier on your clothing, it saves money, too.
• Be sure your laundry is entirely dry before hanging up in your closet or storing. Even a little bit of moisture can contribute to mildew.