Caring For Your Trousers
Spot-Treating Between Washes
- Stain Removal: Spot treat stains with mild soap and a damp cloth or an old toothbrush to lift out dirt without a full wash.
- Air Dry: When spot-treating, air dry your trousers afterward if possible to avoid potential shrinkage or fabric changes.
Key Washing Instructions
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Check the Care Label Symbols: Always review the symbols on the garment’s care label. Here’s a quick guide:
- Washtub: Machine or hand washing instructions.
- Triangle: Suitable for bleaching.
- Iron: Safe for ironing.
- Circle: Dry clean only.
- Square: Air or tumble drying.
A cross through any of these symbols means do not use that method.
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Pre-Treat Stains: Apply the spot-treatment method above before washing to address any stubborn stains.
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Select the Right Detergent:
- Use a detergent specially formulated for dark colours or whites as needed.
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Low-Temperature Washes: Washing at low temperatures helps preserve the fabric and colour of your trousers.
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Separate Whites: Wash whites separately to prevent colour transfer. For a natural whitening hack, add a quarter cup of white vinegar as a pre-wash.
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For “Dry Clean Only” Trousers: Use a steamer to remove creases and freshen up trousers instead of washing.
Drying Tips
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Air Dry When Possible: Air drying preserves colour and reduces wear. Always hang trousers inside out to protect colours and minimize fading.
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Using a Dryer:
- If tumble drying is necessary, add a couple of dryer balls (or tennis balls) to minimize creasing and improve drying efficiency.
- Start the dryer immediately after washing to reduce wrinkles.
- Avoid tumble drying whenever possible for dark colours as it can cause fading.
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Outdoor Drying: If you hang trousers outside, avoid direct sunlight, especially for dark colours, to prevent fading.
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Indoor Drying Tips:
- Use a drying rack or line with space between garments to allow for air circulation.
- Avoid drying in humid environments as it can trap moisture and cause a musty smell.