How to Care for Your Slow Fashion Pieces

05/03/2025

How to Care for Your Slow Fashion Pieces

Investing in slow fashion is a commitment to sustainability and quality. But to truly embrace this ethos, we must extend our care beyond the purchase. Proper maintenance of your carefully chosen pieces is crucial for longevity and reducing your wardrobe's environmental impact. Let's dive into a comprehensive guide on how to care for your slow fashion items.

Washing: Less is More

The golden rule of sustainable clothing care is simple: wash less. Frequent washing not only wears out clothes faster but also consumes more water and energy. Unless your garment is visibly dirty or smelly, consider wearing it multiple times before tossing it in the laundry basket. This approach not only preserves your clothes but also saves resources.

When you do wash, opt for cold water. It's gentler on fabrics and uses less energy. Use eco-friendly detergents without harsh chemicals or fabric softeners, which can damage fibres over time. For delicate items, hand washing or using a gentle cycle is best.

Drying: Embrace the Air

Tumble dryers are convenient, but they're harsh on clothes and energy-intensive. Instead, air dry your garments. Hang them on a line or lay them flat to dry, depending on the fabric. This method not only saves energy but also helps maintain the shape and integrity of your clothes.

For woolens and knits, avoid hanging as it can stretch the fabric. Instead, lay them flat on a drying rack. This simple step can significantly extend the life of your favourite knitwear and jumpers.

Storage: A Place for Everything

Proper storage is key to maintaining your slow fashion pieces. Hang or fold your clothes neatly in a closed wardrobe to protect them from dust, moths, and sunlight that can fade colours. Use wooden hangers for jackets and coats to maintain their shape, and fold knitwear to prevent stretching.

Consider using natural moth repellents like cedar wood blocks or lavender sachets to protect your clothes without harsh chemicals. These not only keep pests at bay but also leave your clothes smelling fresh.

Maintenance: Stitch in Time

Learning basic repair skills can dramatically extend the life of your garments. A loose button or small tear doesn't have to mean the end of a beloved piece. As Orsola de Castro, co-founder of Fashion Revolution, puts it, mending clothes is a "revolutionary act". It challenges the disposable fashion culture and adds personal value to your garments.

Invest in a quality steamer for wrinkle removal. It's gentler than ironing and can refresh clothes between washes. For knitwear, a fabric shaver can remove pilling, keeping your knits looking new.

Material-Specific Care

Different fabrics require different care approaches. For cotton, wash in cool water and reshape while damp. Wool and cashmere benefit from specialised care products like cashmere brushes. Always check the care label for specific instructions.

Embracing Change

Remember, slow fashion is about appreciating the journey of your clothes. As Stanley/Stella advises, "Embrace natural changes. As you wear your garment, the cotton will naturally age, developing a character. These changes symbolise the life of the garment and your experiences wearing it".

Caring for your slow fashion pieces is an act of love – for your clothes, for yourself, and for the planet. By washing less, drying naturally, storing properly, and maintaining diligently, you're not just preserving garments; you're participating in a more sustainable and mindful approach to fashion. As the saying goes, "Buy less, choose well, make it last". With these care tips, you're well on your way to a more sustainable wardrobe that stands the test of time.

Photo by Nick Page on Unsplash