8 Tips for Caring for Your Clothes

It’s all well and good to choose high-quality clothes made from durable fabrics, but if you don’t know how to care for them properly, the investment isn’t worth it.

With a few simple tricks and a bit of care, you can extend the lifespan of those beautiful pieces and keep them looking their best.

At Village Kids, we’ve compiled some of our best tips and tricks to keep your child’s designer clothes looking fresh for years to come. 

1. Read the Care Labels- Don't Ignore the Fine Print!

First things first, labels are an important insight into how your clothes should be cared for.

We get it; many of us quickly cut off those pesky tags without giving them a second glance. But those little labels are like a cheat sheet for garment care. 

They tell you everything you need to know, including the washing temperature, drying instructions, and whether it’s safe to iron.

2. Sort Your Laundry

Throwing all your clothes into the washing machine at once might seem like a time saver, but it’s a recipe for disaster, especially with designer clothes. 

Try separating them by colour and fabric type to prevent colour bleeding and damage. Whites with whites, darks with darks, etc. You know the drill!

As a game changer, use a mesh laundry bag for delicate items. This small step can prevent unnecessary wear and tear.

3. Wash Inside Out!

Turning clothes inside out before washing might seem trivial, but it can significantly protect the fabric and print from fading. 

This is especially important for clothes adorned with prints, embellishments, or delicate stitching.

To save time when washing, try turning your clothes inside out every time you put them in your laundry basket.

4. Use Gentle Detergents

When it comes to detergent, more isn’t better. 

Choose a mild, child-friendly detergent that is effective against stains but kind on clothing. Using harsh chemicals on the fibres might lead to fading and gradual deterioration of the material.

Look for detergents that are free from dyes and fragrances, as these can sometimes cause irritation or allergic reactions.

5. Avoid the Dryer: Opt for Air-Drying

While it’s a quicker method, the dryer can cause your clothes to deteriorate much faster.

Fabrics can fade, shrink, and become weaker in high heat. Alternatively, let your clothes air dry as much as you can. 

Hang them on a drying rack or lay them flat on a clean towel to dry naturally. This will help maintain the shape and integrity of the fabric. Leave them to dry outdoors on a sunny day.

6. Iron with Care 

Ironing can be tricky with delicate children's clothing.

Always use the lowest heat setting and, if possible, place a clean cloth over the garment to avoid direct heat. 

This is especially crucial for pieces with embroidery, lace, or sequins.

7. Store Properly - Don’t just fold!

Avoid cramming too many clothes in a drawer or hanging heavy items that might stretch. 

Instead, store them in a cool, dry place, and consider fabric bags for delicate or seasonal items.

For better organisation, separate your clothes by season, type, or fabric.

8. Treat Stains Immediately

Spills and stains are inevitable with kids. When your child spills something on their new top, the trick is to act fast.

Blot (never rub!) the stain with a clean cloth and apply a gentle stain remover if needed. For tough stains like mud or chocolate, soak the item in cold water before washing.

Stains left untreated for too long can become permanent. It’s all about quick reflexes!