10 Tips on How to Take Care of Your Expensive Designer Clothing

Whether you’ve splurged on a luxurious designer piece or inherited it as a family heirloom, expensive clothing requires special care to maintain its quality and longevity. 

As much as we love our high-end fashion items, wearing and cleaning them can be nerve-wracking. The fear of accidental damage or normal wear and tear is always looming over our heads.

 But fear not! In this blog post, we have compiled 10 essential tips that will guide you on how to best take care of your expensive designer clothing. So read on as we share the expert advice needed to keep your wardrobe investment looking like new.

Why is it Crucial to Take Care of Expensive Designer Clothing

Delicate fabrics, intricate designs, and the masterful craftsmanship that goes into creating each piece of designer clothing all contribute to their high price tag. But these elements also make them susceptible to damage if not handled with utmost care.

More than just a garment, your designer clothing is an investment, a work of art, and an extension of your personal style. Maintaining them in top-notch condition not only preserves their aesthetic appeal but also their value in the long run.

Additionally, it’s about respecting the skill, effort, and creativity of the designers and artisans who brought these pieces to life. 

Therefore, taking care of your expensive designer clothing is of paramount importance, and with the right knowledge and techniques, you can ensure that your prized fashion investments continue to look and feel fabulous for years to come. 

Let’s dive into the tips and tricks that will help you maintain these pieces.

Tip #1 – Read and Follow the Care Instructions on the Label

The first and potentially most crucial tip is to always read and follow the care instructions found on the label of your designer piece. 

These labels provide specific instructions for washing, drying, ironing, and storing your clothing, tailored to the fabric and design of the piece. 

They are there for a reason and should not be overlooked or ignored. Paying heed to these instructions will help you avoid common mistakes like washing a dry-clean-only piece at home or ironing a piece at too high a temperature. 

Remember, proper care of your designer clothing starts with understanding what the label says.

Tip #2 – Invest in Proper Hangers

Investing in the right kind of hangers is crucial for maintaining the shape and integrity of your designer clothing. Wire and plastic hangers can stretch out clothing and leave unsightly marks, particularly on delicate fabrics. 

Instead, opt for padded, wooden, or velvet hangers. These types of hangers provide better support, maintain the shape of your clothing, and prevent unwanted wrinkles or creases. For heavy items like coats or suits, use sturdy, wide-shouldered hangers to preserve their structure. 

Remember, hangers are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different types of clothing require different hangers, so be sure to invest in a variety that suits your wardrobe.

Tip #3 – Utilize Garment Bags for Protection During Travel or Storage

Preserving the integrity of your designer clothing isn’t only about how you handle them at home, but also how you protect them during travel or when storing them away. 

Utilizing garment bags is a smart and efficient way to safeguard your precious items from potential damage. These bags are specifically designed to shield your clothing from dust, moisture, and insects, and prevent unwanted wrinkles or creases during transport or storage. 

They’re especially useful for items made from delicate fabrics or those with intricate embellishments, as they provide an extra layer of protection. When choosing a garment bag, opt for a breathable fabric like cotton to avoid trapping moisture, which can lead to mildew. 

Always remember, a little effort in proper packing or storage can go a long way in maintaining the pristine condition of your designer pieces.

Tip #4 – Spot Clean Stains Immediately Before They Set In

When dealing with stains on your designer clothes, time is of the essence. The longer a stain is left untreated, the more difficult it becomes to remove, and the higher the risk of it leaving a permanent mark. 

Therefore, it’s essential to spot clean stains immediately before they set in. As soon as a spill or stain occurs, gently blot (do not rub) the affected area with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much of the substance as possible. 

Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage delicate fabrics and fade colors. Instead, use a mild fabric cleaner or a solution of cool water and mild detergent. 

Remember to test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t discolor the fabric.

If the stain persists, take your garment to a professional dry cleaner as soon as possible. Quick action combined with careful cleaning can help extend the life of your designer pieces, keeping them in impeccable condition.

Tip #5 – Rotate Your Clothes to Avoid Excessive Wear and Tear

One simple yet effective strategy to prolong the life of your designer pieces is to rotate your clothes regularly. Wearing the same items repeatedly can lead to excessive wear and tear, especially in areas like the elbows, knees, and seams. 

By rotating your clothes, you give them the chance to ‘rest’ and recover, reducing the risk of damage over time. It also allows any moisture from sweat or other substances to fully evaporate, preventing possible fabric damage. 

It might be tempting to wear your favorite designer piece at every opportunity, but remember, giving it a break now can ensure it stays in great condition for far longer.

Tip #6 – Steam Instead of Ironing to Prevent Damaging Delicate Fabrics

Ironing might be a traditional method of removing wrinkles from your clothes, but when it comes to expensive designer pieces, steaming is often a safer and more effective option. 

The heat from an iron can be too harsh for delicate fabrics and may even leave a shiny mark if the temperature is set too high. On the other hand, a garment steamer gently relaxes the fibers, smoothing out wrinkles without the risk of burning or marking the fabric.

Additionally, steaming can also help to refresh your clothes and eliminate odors, giving them a clean, fresh look and feel. So next time you’re about to reach for the iron, consider using a steamer instead to keep your designer clothing in pristine condition.

Tip #7 – Use a Lint Roller to Remove Any Excess Lint or Fuzz from Your Clothes

Keeping your designer clothing free of lint, fuzz, or pet hair is crucial for maintaining its pristine appearance. For this purpose, a lint roller can be an invaluable tool. Gently roll it over the surface of your garment to pick up any loose particles without damaging the fabric. 

It is particularly useful for dark-colored items where lint or pet hair can be more visible. It’s a good idea to keep a lint roller in your bag for quick touch-ups throughout the day. Furthermore, always remember to clean your washer and dryer regularly to minimize lint production during washing and drying cycles. 

Taking these small steps will help ensure that your designer pieces always look their very best.

Tip #8 – Use Natural Alternatives for Odor Protection

With frequent wear, your designer clothing can start to absorb odors from sweat, food, and the environment. But before you reach for heavily scented fabric sprays or harsh fabric refreshers, consider natural alternatives for odor protection. One effective and eco-friendly solution is baking soda, a natural odor neutralizer. 

Simply sprinkle a small amount inside your garment or shoes and let it rest, then shake or vacuum it out before wearing. For a more in-depth freshening, add half a cup of white vinegar to the final rinse cycle while hand or machine washing your clothes. This will not only neutralize odors but also brighten colors and soften fabrics. 

Essential oils can also be used, a few drops on a cotton ball placed in your closet or drawers can impart a pleasant aroma to your clothes. Always remember, these methods are gentle on your expensive clothing, preserving their quality while keeping them smelling fresh.

Tip #9 – Bring Your Clothing to a Professional Dry Cleaner for Cleaning

While some designer pieces can be safely washed at home following the care label instructions, others require professional handling. A professional dry cleaner is equipped with the knowledge, experience, and specialized tools to clean and maintain delicate fabrics and intricate designs without causing damage. 

This can be particularly beneficial for items like silk dresses, wool coats, or pieces with embellishments where home washing could potentially lead to shrinkage, color fading, or loss of shape. Also, dry cleaners use solvents that can effectively remove stains that are difficult to treat at home. 

Remember, trying to save on dry cleaning costs may result in costly damage, so when in doubt, always opt for professional cleaning to ensure the longevity and quality of your precious designer pieces.

Tip #10 – Properly Store Your Expensive Designer Pieces During Off-Seasons

The way you store your designer pieces during off-seasons can significantly impact their longevity and quality. The first step is to ensure your clothes are clean before storage, as stains and odors can become more difficult to remove over time and can even attract pests. 

Avoid using plastic bags for storage as they can trap moisture, leading to mildew. Instead, use breathable fabric bags or acid-free storage boxes. Keep your stored clothing in a cool, dry, and dark area to prevent fading and damage from heat or humidity. If you’re storing items with heavy embellishments, consider wrapping them in tissue paper to prevent the embellishments from damaging other parts of the garment. 

For knitwear, avoid hanging them as this can cause stretching; instead, fold and stack them neatly. Leather items, on the other hand, should be stored in a well-ventilated area and conditioned to prevent drying out. 

By taking the time to store your items properly during off-seasons, you can help maintain their quality and extend their life, ensuring they continue to look their best when you’re ready to wear them again.

In Conclusion

Taking care of expensive designer clothing may seem like a daunting task, but with the right methods and a bit of diligence, you can easily maintain their quality and prolong their lifespan.

Remember that each piece of designer clothing is a work of art, an investment worth protecting. By following these ten tips, you can ensure that your favorite designer pieces remain in top-notch condition for years to come, allowing you to enjoy the luxury and uniqueness they bring to your wardrobe.

About Us

Keeping your clothes clean is more than just about hygiene, it is also about wearing clean clothes that look stylish and make you feel confident. However, to make your stylish couture last, you must take care of them. That’s where Greener Cleaner comes in. 

We are one of the few dry cleaners in Chicago that use zero petrochemicals in our cleaning. From your wedding dress to chic leather jackets, we dry clean everything in an eco-friendly manner. We can also alter your outfits to create a flattering fit and add a new spark to your old wardrobe favorites.

We also provide pick-up and delivery services for your clothing, so there is no hassle associated with laundry cleaning. You can reach us at (773) 784-8429 or fill out our contact form to know more.