As the summer holidays slowly draw to a close, the time has come to put away the flip-flops and bathing suits and replace them with the fall season’s smart new looks. But how to make sure those snappy outfits stay looking their best as long as possible? No need to fear—with the below tips, your child’s back to school wardrobe will withstand the test of time, and may even outlast the next growth spurt.
Tip #1: tackle stains quickly
When it comes to treating stains, time is of the essence. The longer you wait to treat a stain, the more likely that stain is to settle in for good. Examine your child’s clothing after school and be sure to wash any article with noticeable stains promptly.
Tip #2: to every stain its treatment
Not all stains are created equal. Here’s how to handle some of the most common kinds:
- Adhesives: harden the surface of the adhesive using ice, then remove as much of it as you can with a dull knife or the edge of a spoon. Apply an appropriate prewash stain remover, then launder according to the label.
- Blood: Soak in cold water, then apply liquid laundry detergent to the stain and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Launder according to the label, avoiding hot water as it tends to set blood stains.
- Food: Apply prewash stain remover, then launder using an enzyme-based detergent (for greasy food stains, use the hottest water that the label permits).
- Grass: Pretreat or soak with an enzyme-based detergent and/or oxygen bleach if safe for fabric, then launder according to the label.
- Ink: Place stain face down on clean paper towels. Using a sponge or cotton swab, moisten the area around the stain with rubbing alcohol, then apply it to the back of stain as well. Rinse thoroughly, then launder according to the label.
Tip #3: watch the heat
When it comes to removing stains (and maintaining bright colors), cold water is generally your best option. Tougher stains, however, may respond better to warm water. As always, check the care label to be sure. Likewise, the heat of tumble drying can have a setting effect on stains and should be avoided.
Tip #4: dry it right
The best way to preserve the color and shape of your children’s clothing is to dry it on a rack or clothesline, preferably outdoors. Direct sunshine can have a bleaching effect over time, making it ideal for white articles. For colored articles, either prefer the shade or remove dry clothing swiftly.
Tip #5: you can fix that!
There may be times when your child’s garment isn’t just stained, but damaged. In this case, the most environmentally-friendly solution is to fix it, not replace it. Minor tears and pulls can be mended or camouflaged with iron-on repair patches. If you aren’t naturally gifted in the sewing department, you might want to consult a DIY video online. And if you prefer to call on a professional, any alterations shop will be delighted to help you.
For more tips on how to care for your favorite clothes and linens, visit our special fabrics section.