Essential tips for looking after your clothes

Let your clothes breathe. Garment bags can protect your clothes against dirt, dust and insects - but make sure the bags are breathable otherwise mould can grow and your clothes can start to smell.

Never rub stains; blot them or you could make it worse!

Don't iron stained or soiled clothes - this will make whatever is on your clothes harder to remove.

Make sure all clothes are clean before storing them away at the end of a season.  

Protect your garments from prolonged exposure to sunlight or strong artificial lights.

Clean all matching pieces of an outfit together.

Always hang leather garments on padded hangers to help keep their shape.

Spray perfume and hairspray before you get dressed. The alcohol in the spray can fade, discolour, or stain your clothes.

Carefully fold your sweaters. Don't hang them or they can be pulled out of shape and start to resemble an old sack! 

Always read the care label on your clothes - it's there for a reason!  

Even if it's a special occasion garment that you wear only once or twice a year, have it dry cleaned before putting it back in your closet.

Dry cleaning can extend the life of a garment by reducing the wear and tear from a regular washing machine.