Caring for New Clothes

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Tips to ensure new clothes stay new looking longer

• The first time you wash a new garment, wash individually in cold water and check for any fading or bleeding. Continuing to wash separately may keep an extra special item newer looking longer.

• Consider washing towels and face cloths together, alone. Excess lint can do a number on clothes, especially knitted items. Also, towels will spin dry more effectively on their own, saving energy.

• Use cold water as much as possible. The label will tell you what to use, but most items of clothing can be cleaned in cold water. Hot water can set stains and wear out fabric faster.

• Try washing clothes inside out. They will still get clean, but it reduces the wear and tear on the outside of the clothing.

• Air dry your clothes as much as possible. An outside line is best, but you can even hang a line indoors during the winter. Not only will it prevent wear and tear on your clothes, you will save energy as well.

• Don’t over wash. Remember, clothes wear out in the washer, and especially the dryer. Not all items need to be washed every single time they’re worn. Return to the hanger, or fold neatly if a garment is still clean. Sometimes all it takes is a lint removal brush, or some time out hanging in the fresh air. Also, for special occasion clothing, remove and hang up as soon as you get home.

• Be careful applying makeup. There’s nothing worse than foundation powder or red blush marks around your collar. If already dressed, apply make-up with a towel draped over your clothing and be careful putting a shirt on over your made-up face!