Winter clothing, often made from delicate materials, requires special care to preserve its quality and longevity. Here are some tips for caring for your winter pieces.
1. Washing wool sweaters
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Tips :
- Hand wash : Use warm water and a mild detergent specifically designed for wool. Soak the sweater for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse gently without twisting the fabric.
- Drying : Avoid machine drying. Gently squeeze out excess water and lay the sweater flat on a clean towel, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
2. Care of wool coats
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Tips :
- Regular brushing : Use a clothes brush to remove dust and lint, brushing in the direction of the hair.
- Ventilation : Hang the coat to air dry after each use to eliminate odors and moisture.
- Dry cleaning : Take your coat to a professional once or twice a season for a deep cleaning.
3. Storing winter clothes
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Tips :
- Pre-cleaning : Make sure all clothes are clean before storing them to avoid set-in stains and moth infestations.
- Using Covers : Store coins in breathable fabric covers to protect them from dust while allowing air circulation.
- Location : Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light to prevent discoloration and moisture.
4. Preventing pilling on sweaters
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Practical tips :
- Avoid excessive friction : Wear a coat with a smooth lining over your sweaters to limit friction.
- Shave the pills : Use a pill razor or a special comb to gently remove small balls of fabric. Use gentle movements to avoid damaging the fabric.
5. Treating stains on delicate materials
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Common tasks and solutions :
- Coffee or red wine stains : Treat immediately by dabbing with a clean cloth dampened with cold water and a little mild soap. Do not rub, as this may worsen the stain.
- Grease stains : Sprinkle talcum powder or baking soda on the stain and leave it on for a few hours before brushing gently.
- Cashmere Stains : Use a small amount of baby shampoo diluted with cold water, apply carefully, then rinse gently.
6. Preserve winter accessories
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Hats, scarves and gloves :
- Hand wash your accessories with warm water and a mild detergent to avoid distorting the stitches.
- Dry flat, avoiding clothespins which could leave marks.
- Store them in airtight drawers or boxes with moth-proof bags.
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Winter shoes :
- Leather boots : Clean regularly with a damp cloth, apply a suitable shoe polish and waterproof them to protect them from moisture.
- Suede shoes : Brush them gently with a special suede brush and apply a waterproofing spray.
7. Prepare your clothes for the next season
When winter ends:
- Clean all your clothes and accessories before storing them to prevent stains from setting.
- Store them in a clean, dry place , ideally in fabric covers to protect them from dust and moths.
- Inspect each piece for any necessary repairs (missing buttons, unstitched hems, etc.).
By following these tips, your winter clothes will retain their beauty and functionality season after season. Not only will you save money by avoiding premature replacements, but you'll also be contributing to a more sustainable fashion.