Clothes for a day in the garden

Short answer: Gardening means sweat, soil and changing temperatures through the day. A thin layer next to the skin that moves moisture away, and something on top that can handle soil and branches, covers most of what a day in the garden brings.

The inner layer

You sweat even when it is cool, because you dig, lift and bend for hours. An inner layer that moves moisture away from the skin keeps you warm during breaks, when you would otherwise cool down fast. Choose a close-fitting top that does not bunch up. See bamboo undershirt for men.

The outer layer

The outer layer has to handle soil, branches and thorns. Sturdy workwear or an old jacket is better here than soft jersey, which snags easily and gets holes. Think of the outer layer as protection and the inner layer as comfort. Then each layer does what it does best.

The legs

When it is cool, a thin layer under your trousers is often what is missing, especially when you kneel on damp ground. It keeps in warmth without making the trousers tight, and can come off if the sun comes out. It is especially useful in spring and autumn. See bamboo long johns.

The socks

In wellington boots your feet quickly get damp, because air cannot reach them. A sock that reaches a little above the boot and moves moisture away makes a long day more comfortable. Bring a dry pair for the lunch break. Read more about socks for wellington boots.

The breaks

Breaks are when you notice whether your clothes work. When you sit down with a coffee after an hour with the spade, your body cools quickly. A wet layer against the skin makes it worse. Put on an extra layer during breaks and take it off again before you start.

Soil stains

Let soil dry completely and brush it off before washing. Wet soil smears into the fabric and is harder to remove. If marks remain after brushing, rinse the stain in cold water from the inside before the garment goes in the machine. More tips on stains on bamboo clothing.

For women

The same applies for women. A thin inner layer that moves sweat away and a sturdy outer layer that can take soil cover most needs. When it is cool, a thin layer under the trousers helps here too. Choose an undershirt that fits closely without squeezing. See bamboo undershirt for women.

Washing

Wash garden clothes at 40 degrees once the soil is brushed off, and let them air dry. Turn them inside out and avoid fabric softener and the tumble dryer. Wash the same day if you can, so sweat and soil do not settle into the fibres. See the washing guide.

A change for afterwards

A clean set of clothes for after gardening makes the rest of the day better, especially if you have been sweating. Shower, change into something soft and dry, and put the garden clothes straight in the laundry. See bamboo loungewear for men.

Frequently asked questions

What should I wear closest to the skin in the garden?

A thin layer that moves sweat away from the skin, so you do not get cold during breaks. It should fit closely without squeezing, so it does not bunch under the outer layer.

Can bamboo clothing be used as an outer layer?

For light gardening it can work, but for branches, thorns and soil sturdy workwear is better. Wear the soft layer on the inside, where it does the most good.