I get asked a lot about how to properly care for the goods purchased from Garish Gal. Personally, I am very specific about how I care for the clothing I buy. When I am paying a little more for better quality, I also understand that these items may require special care.

First, I always check to see what the washing instruction. If is a dry clean only item, then I know that is a piece I will never risk washing (be honest some of you do it anyways!). If it is a “hand wash” item, I always wash it on the delicate cycle without detergent and then lay flat or hang dry. Don’t hang dry items that will “grow” on the hanger! Items like this include sweaters, viscose t-shirts, or other softer materials.

Pay attention to the materials you are working with! Spot clean only with suedes and pleathers! Never wash pleather/leathers it will break down the material and completely ruin it.

Second, when it comes to hanging items pay attention to the fabric. I almost never hang sweaters. Sweaters in nature tend to “grow” on the hanger. By grow I mean that they expand and become longer. I always fold my sweaters in order to prevent growing. I am also cautious about hanging items that are made of viscose (most soft t-shirts are made of viscose) because these items tend to dog ear at the shoulders from the hanger. I recommend making sure the item is completely dry before hanging. If the material is really soft, then I do not hang the shirt.

Third, I almost never dry any of my clothes. I have worked on the wholesale side of the clothing industry. I used to have to work with the design team and create a care and content sheet for our major accounts. Care and content sheets tell you what the items are made of and how to care for the items to have the best possible longevity. Most of these materials really aren’t meant to withstand the heat of a dryer over and over again. If the item has elastic, the heat of the dryer breaks down the elasticity over time (this is especially true with your underwear-just a little heads up!). I have found that the best way to make my clothes really last is to air dry everything! I know this sounds annoying, but it really doesn’t take very long and you get more bang for your buck!

I hope that this helps you when you are buying new items and washing for the first time! Think about how long you want the item to last and look it’s best!

As always, Happy Shopping!

x0-M