Garment Care

Professional tips for great looking garments

There are some simple rules that can be applied to the wear and care of all uniform garments and some more specific guidance that should be used for particular styles.

• Follow the wash and care instructions on the label inside each garment.
• Make sure that the garment is a good fit and not under strain. If it feels or looks tight when you move or sit, the garment is too small and a larger size should be chosen.
• Garments should be rotated in use – do not keep a set for best – use all of your issued garments equally.
• All garments should be washed frequently, usually after every wear.
• Wash light coloured garments separately to dark garments to avoid colour transfer or ‘greying’.
• Wash dark garments inside out – this helps dark colours to retain their colour by preventing abrasion during the wash – for the same reason it also helps to minimise pilling on cardigans, polos and fleeces.
• Wash separately any garment that is heavily stained or particularly dirty – this prevents other garments collecting stains in the wash.
• Use a wash tablet or liquid designed for the specific wash load – do not use a “whites” option for a load of coloured garments – it will contain bleach and will fade the colour over time.
• Do not use fabric conditioner or softener. Fabric conditioners remain in the fabric after the wash and build up over time to create a heavy, sticky residue that attracts and holds on to dust etc.
• Line drying is always the most caring option if you have the time and facility.
• If you need to press garments, make sure that you use the lowest temperature possible and do not iron over zips, studs or buttons – it can damage the fastening or leave an indelible imprint on the covering fabric.
• Suiting, blouses and cardigans should be pressed inside out at low temperature if they need it – fabrics can become shiny if you press on the right side at too high a temperature.

Most important of all, ensure that you have enough uniform sets – remember it is worn more and washed more than anything else in your wardrobe, and you need to look both smart and professional.