54 Clever Ways to Extend the Life of Kids Clothes

With kids constantly growing and getting into messy situations, it's tough to keep their clothes looking their best. But with a little bit of care and attention, you can extend the life of their clothes and save money in the process.

Little Fixes: 54 Clever Ways to Extend the Life of Kids' Clothes

by Disney Powless

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	26008 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	410 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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1. Wash clothes inside out

When you wash clothes inside out, it helps to prevent the fabric from rubbing against other fabrics in the wash, which can cause pilling and fading. It also helps to protect the delicate embellishments on clothing, such as beads and sequins.

2. Use a gentle detergent

Harsh detergents can damage the fibers in clothing, causing them to fade and weaken. Opt for a gentle detergent that is designed for delicate fabrics.

3. Wash clothes on a cold setting

Hot water can damage the fibers in clothing, causing them to shrink and fade. Wash clothes on a cold setting to help preserve their color and shape.

4. Avoid using bleach

Bleach can damage the fibers in clothing, causing them to weaken and tear. Avoid using bleach on kids' clothes, even if they are white.

5. Dry clothes on a low heat setting

High heat can damage the fibers in clothing, causing them to shrink and fade. Dry clothes on a low heat setting to help preserve their color and shape.

6. Remove stains immediately

Stains can set into fabric if they are not removed promptly. Treat stains immediately with a stain remover that is safe for the fabric. Blot the stain with a clean cloth and avoid rubbing it, which can spread the stain.

7. Repair holes and tears

Small holes and tears can be easily repaired with a needle and thread. If you are not comfortable sewing, you can take the garment to a tailor.

8. Reinforce seams

Reinforce the seams on clothing by sewing over them with a strong thread. This will help to prevent the seams from ripping.

9. Add patches

Patches can be used to cover up holes and tears, or to add a touch of personality to clothing. You can find patches at most fabric stores.

10. Turn clothing inside out

When you turn clothing inside out, it helps to protect the fabric from the sun's rays. This can help to prevent fading.

11. Store clothing in a cool, dry place

Heat and moisture can damage clothing. Store clothing in a cool, dry place, such as a closet or dresser.

12. Avoid overstuffing drawers

Overstuffing drawers can cause clothing to wrinkle. Fold clothes neatly and store them in drawers that are not too full.

13. Hang clothes on hangers

Hanging clothes on hangers helps to prevent wrinkles. Use hangers that are the right size for the garment and that will not stretch out the shoulders.

14. Use a sweater shaver

A sweater shaver can be used to remove pilling from clothing. This will help to keep clothing looking its best.

15. Avoid ironing clothes too often

Ironing clothes can damage the fibers. If you must iron clothes, use a low heat setting and avoid ironing directly on the fabric. Use a pressing cloth to protect the fabric.

16. Dry clean clothes less often

Dry cleaning can damage the fibers in clothing. Dry clean clothes only when necessary.

17. Buy clothes that are made from durable fabrics

Clothes that are made from durable fabrics will last longer. Look for clothes that are made from cotton, linen, or other natural fibers.

18. Buy clothes that are the right size

Clothes that are too tight or too loose will not last as long. Buy clothes that fit your child well and that they can move around in comfortably.

19. Teach your child how to care for their clothes

Teach your child how to properly care for their clothes so that they can learn good habits. Show them how to wash, dry, and iron clothes and how to store them properly.

20. Pass down clothes to younger siblings

If your older child has outgrown their clothes, pass them down to their younger siblings. This is a great way to save money and to give your younger children a chance to wear some of the same clothes that their older siblings wore.

21. Sell old clothes

If you have clothes that your child has outgrown that you no longer need, sell them. You can sell clothes online or at a consignment shop.

22. Donate old clothes

If you have clothes that your child has outgrown that you no longer need, donate them to a charity. There are many charities that accept donations of used clothing.

23. Use a dryer ball

A dryer ball can help to reduce wrinkles in clothes. It can also help to reduce static cling.

24. Add vinegar to the rinse cycle

Adding vinegar to the rinse cycle can help to brighten colors and remove odors.

25. Use a fabric softener

A fabric softener can help to make clothes softer and more comfortable to wear. It can also help to reduce wrinkles.

26. Avoid using fabric softener on towels

Fabric softener can reduce the absorbency of towels. Avoid using fabric softener on towels so that they can continue to absorb water effectively.

27. Wash dark colors separately

Dark colors can bleed into lighter colors. Wash dark colors separately to prevent them from staining lighter colors.

28. Wash delicates in a mesh bag

Delicates can be damaged if they are washed with other clothes. Wash delicates in a mesh bag to protect them.

29. Use a delicate cycle

Use a delicate cycle when washing delicates. This will help to prevent them from being damaged.

30. Hang delicates to dry

Hang delicates to dry instead of putting them in the dryer. This will help to prevent them from being damaged.

31. Use a stain remover

Use a stain remover to remove stains from clothing. Choose a stain remover that is safe for the fabric.

32. Treat stains immediately

Treat stains immediately to prevent them from setting. Blot the stain with a clean cloth and apply a stain remover.

33. Rinse clothes thoroughly

Rinse clothes thoroughly after washing to remove all traces of detergent. This will help to prevent clothes from becoming stiff or itchy.

34. Use a clothesline

If possible, use a clothesline to dry clothes instead of a dryer. This will help to reduce wrinkles and fading.

35. Iron clothes on a low setting

If you must iron clothes, use a low setting and avoid ironing directly on the fabric. Use a pressing cloth to protect the fabric.

36. Store clothes properly

Store clothes in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing clothes in a damp or humid environment.

37. Fold clothes neatly

Fold clothes neatly to reduce wrinkles. Avoid stuffing clothes into drawers or closets.

38. Hang heavy clothes

Hang heavy clothes, such as jeans and sweatshirts, on hangers to prevent them from stretching out.

39. Repair clothes promptly

Repair clothes promptly to prevent small problems from becoming big ones.

Little Fixes: 54 Clever Ways to Extend the Life of Kids' Clothes

by Disney Powless

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	26008 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	410 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE