My Way To Green

Getting the maximum amount of use out of the garments in your wardrobe is a great way to reduce our impact on the planet. There’s no only the environmental benefit to consider thought, as keeping your clothes in good condition will save you money too.

1. As the weather gets colder, it’s tempting to wash winter clothes more frequently. However, over-washing delicate items like knitwear and coats can significantly reduce their lifespan. Fibres weaken with repeated washing, causing fabrics to become bobbly, frayed, or worn. For wool garments, which are naturally self-preserving due to their lanolin content, limiting washes is particularly important. Hand-washing when possible and following care labels can make a big difference.
2. Another common mistake is washing garments with hot water. Even lukewarm water can stress fibres and lead to shrinkage. To keep fabrics soft and intact, use cold water for washes and spot-clean spills as soon as possible. Adding a small amount of hair conditioner or shampoo to the wash can help maintain softness without damaging the fibres.
3. Many people forget to turn their clothes inside out before washing. This simple step reduces friction in the washing machine, preventing unnecessary wear. Using a mesh laundry bag can provide extra protection and help your delicate garments last longer.
4. Choosing the wrong detergent can be just as damaging as washing incorrectly. Harsh detergents or those with strong enzymes can break down delicate fibres, causing wool and other natural materials to lose their softness and strength. Instead, opt for a mild detergent specifically designed for delicates or wool. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, as these can strip natural oils from the fibres, leading to stiffness, fading, and increased wear over time.
5. Finally, drying techniques play a crucial role in preserving your winter wardrobe. Never wring out knitwear; gently squeeze out excess water and lay the item flat on a clean towel to dry. Hanging can cause stretching, and tumble dryers increase the risk of shrinkage and breakage. Following these habits ensures that coats and sweaters retain their shape, softness, and longevity.

By avoiding over-washing, hot water, neglecting to turn fabrics inside out, and improper drying, you can protect your winter wardrobe from irreversible damage. These small but effective adjustments can help your favourite pieces stay fresh, comfortable, and looking their best for years to come.

This year I’m trying to minimise the number of clothing items that I buy to cut out fast fashion and make my wardrobe more sustainable.  It often costs less too.  I’ve recently had a winter coat relined.  It’s a very good quality coat that I bought for half price in the sale.  I’ve had it nearly 30 years and it still looks brand new, except that the lining got torn.  It did cost a certain amount of money to get it relined with the cost of the lining material and the seamstress, but it’s totally worth it to have my lovely coat looking and feeling wonderful again.   Mending items is an important part of making your clothing last longer as is cleaning and taking care of the fabrics.

Leather jacket experts at Lusso Leather have revealed how to care for different materials in your wardrobe to help them last as long as possible, benefiting both the planet and your wallet.

Leather and faux leather 

Leather is a timeless staple, and with leather coats and jackets trending every winter, many people are investing without fully understanding how to care for the material. High heat from things like hot washes, dryers, radiators, or direct sunlight can cause leather to dry out, become stiff, crack, and fade.

Leather should never be machine-washed or soaked, as water can dry it out by stripping the material of its natural oils. Instead, gentle spot cleaning with a soft, damp cloth is usually enough. Conditioning real leather occasionally helps maintain its softness and prevents it from becoming brittle over time.

Faux leather requires similar gentle care. It can be easily damaged if exposed to heat, and it is best to spot clean rather than machine-wash. If it does need to be washed, faux leather can usually handle a gentle spin on a low heat, but it is crucial not to put it in the dryer as the heat can melt the synthetic material.

For storage, both leather and faux leather jackets should be kept on sturdy hangers to help them keep their shape and avoid creasing at the shoulders. 

Fur and faux fur 

Fur and faux fur jackets are another trending item this season, but they’re also among the easiest to damage. The best way to care for both fur and faux fur is to spot clean where you can. If you need to wash real fur, the best approach is to take it to a professional dry cleaner to prevent damage. Faux fur can generally be washed safely at home in cold water on a gentle cycle, but it is important to check the care label first. 

Both fur and faux fur must be air-dried if they become wet, as heat from dryers can cause natural fur to dry out and become brittle, and can cause the fibres of faux fur to melt. Once dry, they should be gently shaken out and then brushed to detangle the fur and help keep it smooth.

To store them, keep them hung in a dark, spacious wardrobe, as crushing them between other clothes can flatten them, and sunlight can cause damage. If you haven’t worn them in a while, it is also advisable to shake them out occasionally to maintain their appearance. 

Sportswear

Committing to fitness is a popular New Year’s resolution, and many people are buying new sportswear to help. However, it can be easily damaged and will need to be replaced quickly if it is not taken care of properly. 

Most sportswear can be safely machine-washed; however, cold washes, gentle cycles, and air drying are important to help maintain them, especially if they are made from a stretchy material, as heat can break down elasticity. Using fabric softener should also be avoided as it can clog the fibres of sportswear and reduce its breathability and moisture-wicking features. 

Turning items inside out before washing helps remove sweat and bacteria more effectively, keeping sportswear fresher for longer and preventing the need for overwashing in high heat. 

Cotton

Cotton is usually easier to care for, but it can be damaged by washing at high temperatures, leading to shrinking and fading. Cold or warm washes are usually sufficient for most cotton items, especially when paired with a good detergent. Over-drying cotton can also be damaging, causing stiffness and shrinking, so it is important not to leave it in the dryer for too long.

Turning garments inside out before washing helps maintain their colour, particularly for printed or darker items. Proper folding or hanging also prevents unnecessary stretching between wears.

Footwear 

Shoes are the hardest-working items in any wardrobe, often worn daily with little to no care. Many people wear their shoes until they’re beyond repair and then replace them, which is neither sustainable nor cost-effective.  

Different shoe materials require different care; for example, leather shoes need regular cleaning, conditioning, and polishing to prevent cracking, and suede shoes should be kept away from water and instead require a special brush and protective spray. 

Fabric shoes and trainers are often thrown into the washing machine, which can weaken their glue and distort their shape, making spot cleaning and air drying much safer alternatives. Rotating shoes rather than wearing the same pair every day also allows them to air out between wears, extending their lifespan.

It really pays to make sure that wardrobe heroes stay looking fabulous for longer.