Caring for your clothes doesn't have to be hard work. But doing it the right way, means they will last much longer. And the planet will thank you.
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Follow the washing instructions on your clothes
This ensures your clothes are cared for in the best way. Each one will have its optimal method, temperature, and cycle speed.
Wash only if strictly necessaryStart by airing your clothes and spot cleaning. You will save water and energy and prolongue your clothes life span.
Avoid using fabric softenerFabric softener releases a lot of harmful chemicals into the water, with a strong negative impact on the environment. It can also damage the elasticity of some materials and impair water repellent qualities.
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Wash inside out
This will help your clothes keep their colour and shape for longer. Remember to also close all zippers and buttons to minimize risk of wear.
Line dry instead of tumbleHanging your clothes to dry instead of using the dryer will make your clothes last longer and save on unnecessary energy usage.
Treat stains as soon as possibleMost stains can be easily removed if tackled right away. Do not let them dry or sit too long as they will be harder to remove. Read our tips below.
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Most stains can be effectively removed with items you already have in your kitchen cupboard, like dishwasher detergent, bicarbonate of soda, lemon juice, corn flour, and even milk. Using natural, gentler products will be better for you, your health and the environment.
Fruit juice, cola, tea, and coffeeRun hot water through the stain. Do not use soap. If the stain remains use glycerine (diluted 50:50 in water) or white vinegar and work into the fabric. Launder as usual.
GreaseSprinkle corn flour on the stain and let it sit for at least one hour, ideally overnight. Brush off and wash in warm soapy water. Once the stain has been removed launder as normal.
BerriesDrop some lemon juice on the stain, let dry and then wash in cold soapy water. Agitate and soak until stain is removed.
Milk, cream, and yoghurtRinse in cold water. If tackled quickly, most protein stains will be removed this way. If stain remains, make a paste with bicarbonate of soda and water and apply to the stain. Leave for an hour and wash.
Chewing gumPut your clothes in the freezer, inside a plastic bag. Once solidified, you will be able to scrape off the chewing gum.
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Washable inks
Sometimes not as washable as we'd hope. Soak in cold milk for one or two hours. Launder as usual.
Mud and grassSoak in white vinegar for a couple of hours. Wash in soapy water.
BloodRinse off fresh blood in cold water. For dry stains, give it a goad soak in cold water. Sprinkle the stain with salt or bicarbonate of soda and let it sit for one hour. Wash in cold water.
ChocolateRub the stain with soap or milk and wash with cold water.
Tomato juice and ketchupDrop lemon juice or white vinegar on the stain, let dry and then wash in cold soapy water. Agitate and soak until stain is removed.
ToothpasteRinse with lukewarm water as soon as possible. Then wash your clothes in hot water, as hot as possible according to the care label.
Give it time. Repeat if necessary. Once a stain has been washed and dried it's often permanent.