How to get your wardrobe ready for summer

Short answer: Before summer, three things are worth doing: check last year's summer clothes for stains, make sure you have enough thin layers, and see whether your underwear will last through a warm season.

Check last year's stains

Deodorant marks and sweat stains are more visible after a winter in the wardrobe, because they have had time to set. Take out your summer clothes in good time and look them over in daylight, so you can treat the stains before the first warm days. See how to remove deodorant marks from bamboo clothing.

Thin layers

In summer, thin t-shirts and tops are worn every day and washed far more often than in winter. Count how many you have, and allow at least one per day between washes. A t-shirt that has twisted or worn thin is ready to be replaced. See bamboo t-shirts for men.

Underwear

Summer is hard on underwear because of sweat and frequent washing. Replace it if the elastic is slack or the fabric has worn thin in the crotch. It is better to do it now than in the middle of a heatwave, when everything wears out faster. See bamboo underwear for women.

Chafing

If you wear a dress or skirt in summer, inner shorts are what prevent chafing between the thighs. A thin, soft style can sit under almost anything without showing. Check that last year's pairs still fit properly and that the edges do not roll up. See bamboo inner shorts.

Socks

With trainers and low shoes, short styles that do not show above the shoe are the ones to wear. Feet sweat more in summer, so it helps to have enough pairs to change every day. Throw out the ones that have worn thin under the heel. See bamboo footies for women.

Put winter clothing away

Wash your winter clothing first and make sure it is completely dry before you pack it away. Warm socks, long underwear and thick jumpers should be stored dry and airy, so they do not smell musty when you take them out in autumn. See storing bamboo clothing.

Washing

In summer you wash more often, and that wears on clothing. Wash at 40 degrees and dry coloured items in the shade, so the colours last longer. Avoid the tumble dryer when you can dry outdoors, because the heat wears on elastic. See more advice in the washing guide.

Sweat and odour

Clothing worn close to the body in the heat should be washed after each wear. Do not leave it damp in the laundry basket for days, because the smell will set in. Hang it up to dry if you cannot wash it straight away, and wash it as soon as you can.

Sun and colours

Strong sunlight can fade colours, especially on dark clothing left outside for hours. Turn clothes inside out and hang them in the shade if you dry them outdoors. Bring them in once they are dry, rather than leaving them in the sun all day.

Make an overview

Once you have been through everything, write down what is missing. That way you know exactly what to buy, and you avoid ending up with three new t-shirts and no socks. It takes a few minutes and makes summer easier once the heat and the busy weeks arrive.