It seems for many people, regardless of how many times they buy clothing—and regardless of what brand it is—they just can’t seem to make it last. Your clothes seem to wear out as quickly as you buy them, leaving you wondering why you have such bad luck. It seems like no matter how much you spend, nothing seems to last, which can leave you feeling frustrated about what to do.
Yet, the lifespan of your clothing often comes down to so much more than just price tags. It usually has a lot more to do with how clothes are made, and perhaps most importantly, how you care for them. Here are some of the most common reasons your clothes aren’t living as long as they should—and what you can do to make them last even longer.
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Poor Quality Fabric
Not all fabrics are created equally, which is why some fabrics are much more expensive than others. Fast fashion usually uses low-quality synthetic materials or thin blends that aren’t built to endure frequent wear. They may look great on day one, but they will pill, shrink, and fade over time.
100% cotton is made to last many years, as well as linen, wool, and sturdy blends like denim. It’s certainly worth investing in a few better-made pieces instead of filling up your closet with cheap finds every few months.
Overwashing
Believe it or not, as much as you might think you’re doing a favor by washing your clothes, you’re actually often doing yourself a disservice. Too much washing can start to wear down fabrics and break down the fibers, not only causing colors to fade but also distorting the shape of your garments.
It’s important that you try to wash your clothing as little as possible—especially hand-washing whenever possible. Always wash in cold water, and if possible, opt for gentle cycles to reduce stress on fabric.
Improper Drying Techniques
Tossing everything into the dryer might seem convenient, but it’s one of the fastest ways to fry your clothing. Heat breaks down the elastics and fibers in your clothes, causing shrinkage and ultimately wearing out the seams prematurely.
It’s important that you consider air drying your clothes whenever possible. If you absolutely must use a dryer, consider putting it on a very low setting. This will make a big difference in extending the life of your wardrobe and ultimately put more money in your pocket.
Poor Care
Washing your clothes in a neglectful way can result in serious damage. It’s important that you follow all care labels and preserve your clothes accordingly. Hand-wash whenever the label instructs you to, dry clean when indicated, and avoid harsh detergents unless they’re specifically recommended.