CLOTHING CARE TIPS      

Implementing some of the following tips will go a long way in helping you protect and extend the life of your garments.

Dry clean your garments sparingly. Frequent cleanings can actually cause your garments to prematurely wear because of the solvents and heat that are used in the dry cleaning process. Consider dry cleaning only when necessary or, at the end of the season before storing. After cleaning, garments should be removed from the plastic bags and aired.

Limit the use of fabric softeners. They contain additives that stick to your clothing to make them feel softer. Unfortunately, frequent usage of these softeners will also compromise the fabric's absorbency and make them less breath-able.

Use padded or shaped hangers as they are more gentle on your garments than wire ones. Uncoated wire hang-
ers may also rust and stain your clothes.

Avoid hanging your coats & jackets on racks or hooks which may cause the neck areas to stretch out of shape.

Give your wool garments a day's rest between wear-
ings to allow them to shed their wrinkles and return to their original shape.

Fold knitted garments instead of hanging them to keep them from stretching out of shape.

Brush your garments regularly and thoroughly to re-
fresh them and to remove any soil, hair, etc. Use a slightly damp sponge or cloth on knits & finer fabrics.

Always read the label on your garment for spec-ific washing instructions.

Allow deodorants & anti-perspirants to thoroughly dry before you dress. Also, consider adding dress shields
to your garments to protect them against excessive perspiration which can weaken certain fabrics.

All garments should be either laundered or dry cleaned prior to storage.

Never store your jackets or garments in plastic bags. They create limited air flow which may trap moisture and cause mildew to form. Plastic bags may even cause leathers and suedes to dry out. Use canvas or cloth bags instead.

Select a storage area carefully, avoiding areas with high temperatures and/or high humidity.

To revive your clothing when you remove them from storage: first air out the garments thoroughly and then either brush them and/or lightly pass a garment steam-er over them to remove any wrinkles or creases and to perk them up. Air them thoroughly afterwards before putting them to your closet.