You invested in a beautiful dress, a satin blouse, a delicate jewel. And six months later, the dress has shrunk, the blouse is dull, the jewel has blackened. Does this ring a bell?
The problem is almost never the quality of the garment. It's how we take care of it. And the good news is that with some simple gestures, your favorite pieces can last for years.
Washing: where everything hangs in the balance
Rule #1: Wash less
Yes, you read that right. Most clothes don't need to be washed after each use. Jeans? Every 4-5 wears. Sweaters? Every 3-4 wears (except for odor). Only underwear, t-shirts worn next to the skin and sportswear deserve a wash after each use.
Rule #2: Low temperature, always
30 degrees for most clothes. Hot water damages fibers, shrinks clothes, and dulls colors. 60 degrees should only be used for sheets and towels.
Rule #3: Turn everything inside out
Jeans, printed t-shirts, dark clothes: turn them inside out before washing. This protects the outer surface from rubbing against the drum.
Rule #4: The laundry bag is your friend
Lingerie, delicate blouses, lace clothing - put them in a laundry bag. It costs 3 euros and saves dozens of clothes.
Drying: the invisible trap
The dryer is the silent killer of your wardrobe. It shrinks, deforms, and wears out fibers twice as fast as washing. If possible, air dry. If you must use a dryer, use the delicate cycle and remove the clothes while they are still slightly damp.
Storage: each piece has its place
- Sweaters and knits: fold them, NEVER hang them (the hangers deform the shoulders)
- Shirts and dresses: on adapted hangers (not metal ones from the dry cleaner)
- Shoes: with shoe trees or silk paper inside to keep their shape
- Jewelry: separately, in pouches or a compartmentalized box to avoid scratches
Textile emergencies
Grease stain
Dust immediately with talcum powder or flour. Let absorb for 30 minutes. Brush off. Wash as usual. Above all, DO NOT rub with water - it sets the stain.
Shrunk garment
Soak it for 30 minutes in lukewarm water with conditioner. Gently stretch by hand while laying flat to dry.
Fuzzballs
A lint remover (5 euros at the supermarket) works wonders. Pass it gently over the laid-flat garment.
By material
| Material | Washing | Drying | Ironing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | 30-40°C | Air dry or delicate cycle | Yes, steam iron |
| Linen | Max 30°C | AIR DRY ONLY | Damp iron, hot setting |
| Silk/Satin | Hand wash or delicate cycle | Air dry in the shade | Low heat iron on reverse side |
| Wool/Knitwear | Hand wash, cold water | Lay flat to dry | Steam only |
| Synthetic fabrics | 30°C | Air dry | Low heat iron or steam |
| Denim | 30°C, turn inside out | Air dry | Rarely necessary |
Well-maintained clothes last longer and keep their beauty. Discover our collection of timeless pieces designed to withstand the seasons with you.
