Suits are considered a staple in men’s formal wear and are often necessary for professional and formal occasions such as job interviews, weddings, and important meetings. Having a suit on hand allows men to present themselves in a polished and professional manner when the need arises. Additionally, suits can be versatile as you can wear your suit as a complete set or the individual pieces that can be mixed and matched with other clothing items for less formal occasions. Caring for your suit is essential to ensure its longevity and to maintain its shape. In this article you can find tips and tricks to care for your suit so that it will continue to look impeccable for years to come.
Different kinds of Suit Fabric
Wool
One of the most common suit fabrics is wool. Wool suits are known for being durable and versatile. They are warm in the winter and breathable in the summer, making them suitable for year-round wear. To care for a wool suit, it is important to hang it on a wooden or padded hanger to maintain its shape. Wool suits should be dry cleaned only to prevent them from shrinking or losing their shape.
Cotton
Cotton suits are lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for warmer climates. They have a more casual look compared to wool suits, which makes them suitable for less formal occasions. To care for a cotton suit, it is best to machine wash it on a gentle cycle and hang it to dry. Before wearing your suit, iron using the low heat setting to prevent damage to the fabric.
Linen
Linen suits are perfect for summer events and hot climates. They are lightweight and breathable, keeping you cool even in the hottest conditions. Linen suits have a relaxed and casual appearance, which makes them great for beach weddings or outdoor parties. However, linen is prone to wrinkling, so it is important to hang a linen suit and store it in a breathable garment bag.
Cleaning Your Suit
Brushing Your Suit
It should not come as a surprise that you should brush your suit with a garment brush. Regular brushing helps to remove dust, dirt, and debris that can accumulate on the fabric, preventing them from becoming embedded and causing damage. When dirt and debris are allowed to build up on the fabric, they can weaken the fibers over time, leading to premature wear and tear. By regularly removing these particles, you can help to preserve the quality and durability of your suit. Brushing also helps to restore the suit’s shape and keep it looking crisp and neat. Lint rollers are a good alternative to remove lint, hair, and other debris from clothing. They have adhesive sheets that trap and remove the unwanted particles when rolled over the fabric. While garment brushes are more effective for removing heavy lint and brushing out fabric fibers, a lint roller can work well for routine touch-ups.
Wash and Dry-Clean Your Suit Sparingly
Caring for Your Suit is to clean it properly. Therefore, it is important to exercise caution when it comes to washing and dry cleaning your suit. Suits are typically made from delicate and expensive fabrics, such as wool and silk, and excessive cleaning can severely damage your suit. Dry cleaning, in particular, involves the use of chemicals that can strip away the natural oils in the fabric and lead to color fading and shrinkage. Therefore, it is recommended to only clean your suit when necessary. Spot cleaning using a mild detergent and a clean cloth can also be done for small stains. If your suit does require professional cleaning, look for a trusted dry cleaner who specializes in handling suits. It is also advisable to inform them about any specific stains or areas that need attention.
Extending The Life of Your Suit
1. Hang your suit
The first step in suit care is to store it properly. Always hang your suit on a sturdy, wide-shouldered wooden hanger to maintain its shape because it mimics the shape of your shoulders hence decreasing the chances of creasing and wrinkling. Be sure to buy a good quality hanger that is made from durable materials like wood or sturdy plastic and avoid wire hangers, as they can cause stretching or deformation of the suit fabric. Additionally, try not to overcrowd your closet for better air circulation around your suit. This is important for preventing moisture buildup and musty odors, as well as allowing the suit to breathe and recover its freshness.
2. Invest on a good steam Iron
A well-pressed suit not only looks professional and sharp but also gives a sense of confidence. This can be achieved by getting the right tool. We recommend a high-quality steam iron that can make a significant difference in the appearance of your clothes. It can remove wrinkles and creases effortlessly, leaving your suit looking wrinkle-free and flawless. Unlike the regular irons, steamer uses hot steam to penetrate the fabric and remove stubborn wrinkles easily. This means you can achieve a perfectly pressed suit in no time, without the hassle of constantly adjusting and re-ironing. Consider purchasing a steam iron with a vertical steam function, allowing you to steam your suit while it’s hanging. This function is particularly useful for suits with delicate fabrics or intricate designs that may be difficult to iron on a flat surface.
3. Rotating Your Suits
It is important to rotate your suits so that they last longer and continue to look their best. Wearing the same suit every day puts a lot of strain on the fabric, causing it to wear out more quickly. When you alternate your suit, you allow each one to rest and recover its shape after being worn. This helps to prevent wrinkles and creases from setting in and extends the lifespan of the suit. Try to give your suits a day or two off between each wear to allow them to breathe and recover their shape.
Caring for Your Suit While Traveling
When traveling with a suit, it is important to take extra care to ensure it stays in pristine condition. Start by investing in a garment bag specifically designed for suiting to protect your suit from wrinkles and stains while in transit. Before packing, make sure your suit is clean and steamed. Any dirt or stains left on the fabric can become harder to remove if allowed to set in during travel. Fold your suit carefully, following the natural lines of the garment. Avoid overpacking your suitcase to prevent unnecessary pressure on your suit. Once you arrive at your destination, unpack your suit right away and hang it up. This will allow any wrinkles to naturally smooth out.
Interesting Read: How to match different patterns
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