How to care for clothes so they last twice as long

Short answer: Five moves make almost all the difference. 40 degrees, no fabric softener, inside out, low heat when drying and fewer washes overall.

40 degrees

A higher temperature rarely makes clothes cleaner, but it breaks down elastic and loosens colour. See washing and care.

No fabric softener

The film cancels the moisture transport and binds odour. On soft fabric there is nothing to gain. See bamboo underwear for men.

Inside out

The friction in the machine hits the inside instead of the side you see. See bamboo underwear for women.

Low heat

Elastane loses its stretch from heat. It is the single move that matters most for underwear. See bamboo towels.

Fewer washes

Outer layers can be aired for an hour rather than washed. Every wash wears the fibres and the elastic, and fewer washes extend the life directly and measurably. See bamboo bedding.

Frequently asked questions

What extends the life of clothing most?

Low heat when drying. Elastane is broken down by heat, not by wearing.

Is 40 degrees enough?

For almost everything in an ordinary household, yes.

Can you air clothes instead of washing them?

Outer layers yes. An hour in fresh air removes most of the smell.