How to Care for Winter Clothing

As the frosty air sets in, winter clothing is the cosy and stylish armour that keeps us warm during those chilly months! 

But how do you ensure your winter wardrobe stays fabulous all season long? Here we’re going to share some amazing fashion tips on how to care for your winter clothing and make sure your winter fashion game stays on point. 

Let’s dive right in and embrace the cold weather with style!

---

Winter Clothing and How to Keep Them in Tip-top Shape

Wool Sweaters

• To keep your statement sweaters in tip-top shape, avoid hanging them as it can cause stretching. Fold them neatly and store them in a cool, dry place. 
• Remove any lint or pills using a fabric shaver or a sweater stone.

Coats and Jackets

• Before storing your coats and jackets for the season, make sure to clean them following the care instructions. 
• Give them a gentle brush to remove any dirt or debris. 
• Hang them on sturdy hangers to maintain their shape, and cover them with garment bags to protect them from dust.

Down Jackets

• Machine wash them on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent. 
• Tumble dry on low heat with a few clean tennis balls to help fluff up the down filling. 
• Ensure they are completely dry to prevent any musty odours.

Leather Jackets

• To clean your leather coats, wipe off any stains or spills immediately with a damp cloth. 
• Apply a leather conditioner regularly to keep the material supple and prevent it from drying out. When not in use, hang your jacket on a padded hanger to maintain its shape and prevent creases.

Faux Fur Coats

• Give your faux fur coats some TLC by shaking them out gently to fluff up the fur. 
• If you encounter any spills or stains, use mild soap and warm water to spot-clean the affected area. 
• Hang your coat on a broad-shouldered hanger to preserve its shape.

Cashmere Sweaters

• Treat your luxurious cashmere sweaters with care—hand wash them using a gentle detergent or baby shampoo in lukewarm water. 
• Avoid twisting or wringing them. 
• After washing, lay them flat on a clean towel to dry. 
• Fold them neatly and store them in a breathable bag or drawer.

Raincoats and Trench Coats

• Apply a waterproof spray or treatment to your raincoats and trench coats to repel water and keep them looking fresh.
• Reapply the treatment as needed, especially after washing or dry cleaning.

Winter Accessories: Hats, Gloves, and Scarves

• Handwash your winter accessories using a mild detergent. 
• Gently squeeze out excess water and reshape them while damp. 
• Lay them flat on a towel to dry, avoiding direct sunlight. 
• Once dry, fluff up your hats and scarves to restore their shape.

Leather Boots

• Clean your leather boots regularly with a damp cloth to remove dirt and salt stains. 
• Use a leather conditioner to keep them moisturized and prevent cracking. 
• Stuff them with newspaper or boot shapers to maintain their shape when not in use.

Suede and Nubuck Boots

• Brush your suede and nubuck boots with a suede brush regularly to remove dirt and restore the nap. 
• For stains, use a suede eraser or gently rub with a soft cloth dipped in white vinegar. 
• Finish by applying a protective suede spray to repel moisture.

---

General Tips and Tricks to Care for Winter Clothing

Read and Follow Care Instructions

Before cleaning or storing any garment, always check the care label for specific instructions. Different fabrics and materials may require different care methods, such as hand washing, dry cleaning, or machine washing in specific settings.

Spot Clean Stains

Treat stains promptly to prevent them from setting. Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth or sponge, using a mild detergent or stain remover specifically designed for the fabric type. Test the product on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage.

Wash Similar Items Together

Separate your winter clothing by colour, fabric, and care requirements. Wash similar items together to prevent colour bleeding and ensure that fabrics receive the appropriate treatment.

Use Gentle Detergents

Opt for mild, pH-neutral detergents when washing your winter garments. Harsh detergents can strip away natural oils from fabrics and cause them to become dry or damaged. Look for detergents specifically formulated for delicate or woollen fabrics.

Avoid Overwashing

Winter clothing doesn’t require frequent washing unless visibly soiled. Overwashing can cause fabrics to fade, lose their shape, or pill. Instead, spot clean or air out your garments to maintain freshness.

Dry Clean When Needed

Some winter garments, such as wool coats or delicate fabrics, may require professional dry cleaning. Always follow the care instructions and take them to a reputable dry cleaner to ensure proper treatment.

Folding vs. Hanging

Fold heavier items like sweaters, knits, and jeans to maintain their shape and prevent stretching. Delicate items, like silk blouses or dresses, are best hung to avoid creasing. Use padded hangers for delicate fabrics to prevent them from slipping or getting damaged.

Store in Proper Containers

Store your winter clothing in breathable containers, such as cotton or linen garment bags or containers, to protect them from dust, moisture, and pests. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause mildew or musty odours. For bulkier winter items like puffy coats or blankets, consider using vacuum-sealed storage bags.

Keep Moths Away

Protect your precious wool and cashmere sweaters from pesky moths by using natural moth repellents like cedar chips, lavender sachets, or mothballs. Place them in your storage area or drawer to keep those little critters away. 

Make Regular Inspections

Periodically check your winter clothing for any signs of damage, loose threads, or missing buttons. Repair any issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure your garments stay in top condition.

---

Final Note

Proper care is the secret to making your winter wardrobe last longer and retain its fabulousness. 

Don’t be afraid to pamper your winter clothing—they deserve it! Now, go out there, rock your winter fashion, and let your style shine brighter than the winter sun. Stay warm and fabulous!