What to wear for a day of gardening and afterwards
Short answer: A day in the garden calls for clothes that can handle soil, sweat and changing weather, and afterwards the body deserves something soft and clean. Dress in layers, protect your skin and hands, and plan a calm change with a shower, a towel and loose clothing once the work is done.
Layer upon layer in the garden
Mornings can be cool, while the midday sun warms things up quickly. That is why layers work best. Start with a top that moves moisture away from the skin, add a shirt or a thin jumper over it, and keep a windproof jacket within reach. When you work hard with a spade and wheelbarrow, take a layer off, and when you kneel down to weed, put it back on. This keeps your body at an even temperature throughout the day and stops you from getting chilled.
Protecting skin and hands
Long sleeves and long trousers protect against thorns, nettles and the sun. Choose a close but breathable fabric for your top, and wear sturdy gloves when you prune or handle soil. A hat with a brim and sun cream on the neck and face are sensible from spring to autumn, even on cloudy days. If you have sensitive skin or a known allergy to plants, talk to your doctor about how best to protect yourself while you work outdoors.
Footwear and knees
Good boots or waterproof shoes with a firm grip make the day safer, especially on wet grass or paving. Knee pads or a small stool take the strain off your knees when you weed the beds. Trousers with a little extra fabric over the knees last longer. Remember to wipe your boots and leave them somewhere warm so they are dry next time. Dry socks make a real difference over a long day, so it is worth keeping a spare pair near the door.
Changing after the work
Once the garden is tidy, it is good to get the soil and sweat off quickly. Take off your work clothes in the utility room or by the back door so soil does not spread through the house, and put them straight in the wash. A warm shower and a large, soft towel make the transition pleasant. Bamboo towels are thin compared with how much water they can absorb, and they dry quickly on the rack afterwards.
Relaxing in loose clothing
After a physical day your muscles are tired, and clothes that do not pull feel good. Many people change straight into sleepwear or soft loungewear, even if it is still early in the evening. A set of bamboo sleepwear for men in light viscose sits loosely on the body and leaves room to stretch out on the sofa. Drink plenty of water so your body can recover properly after a long day spent outdoors.
Sleep after a day in the garden
Fresh air and physical work often lead to deep sleep. Help it along with a cool bedroom and clean bedding that feels smooth against the skin. If you sweated a lot during the day, freshly washed bamboo sheets can make it easier to settle down. Air the bedroom before bedtime, and keep your gardening clothes outside the bedroom so the smell of soil stays where it belongs and the room feels fresh.
Frequently asked questions
Which fabric is best for gardening
A hard-wearing fabric for trousers and a breathable one for the top work well. Layering matters more than any single material.
How do you get soil stains out of clothes
Let the soil dry, brush it off and pre-treat the stain with a little detergent before washing at the temperature the label allows.
Should you shower straight after gardening
It is a good habit. It removes soil, pollen and sweat, and it makes it easier to relax afterwards.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
