Skip to content

Search 0

The considered washer: 5 simple steps to making your clothes last longer

The considered washer: 5 simple steps to making your clothes last longer

Life is busy.  So here are 5 simple and actionable steps for washing your clothes in a way that gets the most out of your wardrobe and takes the least from the planet. 

#1 Let your clothes breathe.

It is widely acknowledged that we wash our clothes too often (BBC). Instead, use something like a small ladder leant against the wall to air your clothes at the end of the day. Airing them will reduce the number of washes needed, keeping your clothes looking new for longer.

#2 Lower the heat

Washing at 30C lowers the risk of shrinking, fading and tearing your clothes. It’s also the most energy-efficient option, using 38% less energy than washing at 40°C (Which? Magazine).

Sorting laundry can be time-consuming. But, finding a way that works best for you can help save energy and keep your garments looking new for longer.

Here are a few options:

Energy saving - one wash Activewear - two washes Garment health and sanitization - two washes
  • Dropping all your clothes into one 30°C wash
  • This could lead to garment wear from friction between delicate and heavy fabrics, but will save energy
  • Pre-treat your stains to avoid marks and stains sticking around
  • One at 30°C: natural and delicate fabrics
  • One at 40-60°C, depending on level of soiling: synthetic
  • This will keep natural fabrics from shrinking, avoid friction and help dispel odours and marks in synthetic activewear
  • Ideal for sportspeople
  • One at 30°C: everyday wear
  • One at 60°C: heavy fabrics that need to be sanitized
  • The nature of towels means they rub against and weaken lighter fabrics

 

#3 Turn items inside out. 

This will prevent your jeans fading, your graphic tees peeling, and your zips and buttons making tiny tears in your clothes.

#4 Lighten the load.

When you fill your washing machine, leave a hand span’s width of space at the top of the drum. This will leave enough room for the water and detergent to circulate, and reduce friction between garments. 

#5 Put it all on the line.

Air dry, but keep it out of the sun to avoid shrinkage and fading colours. Heat can shrink and weaken the fabric, so keep away from tumble dryers when your washing is done. Using a tumble dryer 20 times a month for 1 year uses more CO2 than a tree can absorb in the first 50 years of its life (The Waterline). 


 

Adding 9 months to your clothes lifespan could reduce their carbon, water and waste footprints by up to 20% (WRAP). But, your clothes are more than just fabrics with a footprint. They hold the memories of where you’ve taken them and what you've done in them. Loved clothes last, so washing them with care will protect those memories, and ease the demand we place on our planet.

Back to blog

Your bag is empty