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How to Extend the Life of Your Clothes

How to Extend the Life of Your Clothes

At Dotty, we believe every piece in your wardrobe deserves care and attention to ensure it lasts for years. Extending the life of your clothes is not only good for your wallet but also for the planet.

At Dotty, we believe every piece in your wardrobe deserves care and attention to ensure it lasts for years. Extending the life of your clothes is not only good for your wallet but also for the planet. Whether it’s one of our stylish blouses, cozy sweaters, or elegant dresses, here are some tips to keep your clothes looking and feeling fabulous.


1. Wash with Care

  • Follow Care Labels: Always check the care instructions on the tag. At dotty, we include detailed care labels on every piece to guide you.

  • Wash Less Frequently: Unless your clothes are visibly dirty or smelly, avoid overwashing. Washing too often can wear out fibers prematurely.

  • Use Cold Water: Washing in cold water reduces wear and tear and saves energy.

  • Gentle Detergents: Opt for mild, eco-friendly detergents to protect the fabric and the environment.

  • Hand Wash When Possible: For delicate pieces like dotty sequin pieces, hand washing is ideal to maintain their quality.


2. Dry with Purpose

  • Air Dry: Skip the dryer whenever possible. Hanging or laying clothes flat to dry prevents shrinking and fabric damage.

  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: While air drying, keep clothes out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.

  • Use a Drying Rack: For items that need shape retention, like dotty pants, a flat drying rack is perfect.


3. Store Smartly

  • Use Quality Hangers: Avoid wire hangers, which can distort your clothes. Padded or wooden hangers are best for dresses and tops.

  • Fold Heavy Items: Knitwear and sweaters should be folded to prevent stretching.

  • Store in Cool, Dry Places: Keep your clothes in a dry, well-ventilated closet to avoid mold or mildew.

  • Seasonal Storage: Use breathable garment bags for off-season clothes to protect them from dust and pests.


4. Handle Stains Quickly

  • Spot Clean Immediately: Treat stains as soon as they happen. Blot, don’t rub, to avoid setting the stain deeper into the fabric.

  • Use Natural Remedies: Simple solutions like baking soda, vinegar, or lemon juice can tackle many common stains without harsh chemicals.


5. Repair Before You Replace

  • Sew Small Tears: A quick stitch can save a garment from further damage.

  • Replace Buttons: Keep extra buttons (we include them with many Dotty items!) and reattach them as needed.

  • Fix Loose Threads: Gently pull loose threads through to the inside of the garment and secure them.


6. Rotate Your Wardrobe

  • Wear a Variety of Items: Rotating your outfits reduces wear on any one piece.

  • Invest in Timeless Pieces: At Dotty, our designs are made to transcend trends, so you’ll want to keep them in your rotation for years.


7. Refresh Your Clothes Naturally

  • Steam Instead of Ironing: A steamer can refresh fabrics and remove wrinkles without damaging fibers.

  • Deodorize Naturally: Hang clothes outside for a breath of fresh air or use natural sprays like diluted vinegar or essential oils.


8. Donate or Upcycle

When it’s finally time to say goodbye, consider donating your clothes or transforming them into something new. A well-loved Dotty dress could find a second life as a chic top or an heirloom piece for someone else to cherish.


By incorporating these simple practices into your routine, you’ll not only extend the life of your Dotty wardrobe but also contribute to a more sustainable future.

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