We all know that clothes can be an investment, and it’s never fun to spend money on new shirts, pants, or jackets only to have them lose their shape or fade after washing.
For plus-size men, this struggle can feel even more challenging, especially since larger sizes often have a higher price tag. But don't worry—you don't need to throw away your favorite shirts just because they have been used several times.
Giving your clothes a little extra care will make them last longer while keeping them looking fresh and sharp. Here are some tips on how to properly do your laundry for your plus-size men's clothes.
With just a little extra care, you can make your clothes last longer while looking fresh and stylish. Here are some friendly tips on how to properly care for your plus-size men’s clothes when doing laundry!
Sort Properly
Before you think of throwing all your clothes like trash for the wash, let's first talk about sorting your clothes. It's for everyone who wants their clothes to stay fresh and in top new condition.
So first you must actually sort them according to the color. It's a good idea to keep light colors separate from dark ones, this way, you won’t end up with any unexpected color transfers that could ruin your favorite shirt.
Wait, it does not stop here! You should also separate your delicate items from sturdier fabrics, like denim or heavy cotton.
Taking an extra moment to do this will definitely pay off. Your clothes will thank you, and you can avoid those annoying pesky color runs that might send your favorite shirt to the back of the closet!
Choose the Right Detergent
Detergent quality matters the most when it's time for laundry! Some detergents are pretty rough with chemicals, while others are super gentle on both your clothes and your skin.
If you wear plus-size men’s clothing, which often involves heavier fabrics, it's best to choose a detergent that battles stains but does not damage fibres.
If your skin is very sensitive, using a hypoallergenic detergent can really make a difference! Nevertheless, if maintaining quality is a top priority, you might want to consider gentle or eco-friendly detergents.
These options usually have fewer additives and fragrances, which can help extend the life of your fabrics over time.
Wash in Cold Water
It is tempting to throw every piece of clothing into the hot tub just to get them really clean, but believe it or not, cold water is actually your laundry's best buddy!
Washing in cold water prevents the clothes from shrinking, fading, or wearing out because of multiple washes.
Most importantly, cold water is also gentler on clothes and can help them maintain their shape and color for much longer. Plus, it’s better for the environment and your wallet—less energy means lower bills. Double win!
Avoid Overloading the Machine
Laundry day can sometimes feel like a bit of a workout, and it’s easy to want to stuff as many clothes as you can into the washing machine. But the thing is that overloading your machine is a misfortune disaster.
This would cause your clothes to bunch up unevenly and stretch, and they do not have room to move freely, which means they are partially cleaned.
When it comes to washing plus-size clothes, remember that they take up more space. Giving them extra room to breathe makes a difference in how they come out.
Use Gentle Wash Cycles
The regular wash cycle isn’t the best choice for plus-size clothes, especially if they are made of delicate materials or have fancy details. Instead, you better opt for a gentle or delicate cycle.
This slower, gentler option helps keep the fabric and any cool detailings like embroidery, buttons, or zippers looking good. It might take a bit longer, but that extra care will make your clothes last much longer!
Avoid Harsh Bleaches and Softeners
It can be fine and dandy to want your whites extra bright or to enjoy the amazing softness of fabric softeners, but these products might not be as good for your clothes in the long run.
Harsh bleach breaks down clothing fibres pretty quickly, and while fabric softeners feel wonderful and comfortable, they actually coat your clothes with a layer of chemicals that break down the fabric and decrease its lifespan.
If you’re looking for a way to keep your clothes looking fresh and vibrant, why not try natural alternatives, like white vinegar, to soften your laundry without damaging it?
Dry with Care
Drying clothes can be tricky. Although almost everyone relies on the dryer these days for everything, dryers can be pretty harsh on fabrics, especially those that contain extra-fabric items.
The heat can cause the fabric to shrink, fade, and even distort. To make your clothes for the long run, always dry them on a low heat setting or air dry them whenever possible.
If you’re in a rush and need to use the dryer, use a dryer sheet to help soften the fabric and reduce static.
Use Mesh Laundry Bags
Some clothes just need a little extra protection, and mesh laundry bags are the unsung heroes of laundry day. It means this bag will help you keep your articles safe.
If you’ve got items with delicate details like lace, buttons, or zippers, toss them into a mesh bag before washing them.
This will prevent snagging or tearing while still allowing them to be cleaned. Mesh bags are best for small items like socks or underwear, as they ensure they won't get lost in the wash.
Iron with Care
It's a balancing act! Too much heat can ruin your fav clothes, but too little heat will only give you pesky wrinkles.
So, ironing garments usually requires you to check the labels first and adjust the iron's heat accordingly to keep the fabric safe.
Also, try ironing your clothes while they’re still a little damp or use a spray bottle of water to create a bit of steam. This will make it super easy to smooth out wrinkles without pressing too hard.
Store Properly
The way you store your clothes can be as important as the way you wash them. For men's plus-size clothing, it’s a great idea to hang heavier items, such as jackets or coats, which will help retain their shape for a long time.
For shirts and jackets, use broad, padded hangers to avoid the fabric getting stretched out of shape or losing its form. Pants can be folded neatly or put on a pants hanger, as you wish.
It's best to avoid stuffing your clothes into tight spaces in your closet. This will keep them looking fresh and prevent creases or stretching. When it's time to store seasonal items, use breathable garment bags to hold them back from getting dusty and moist.
Conclusion
Taking care of your plus-size men's clothing can be simple and stress-free! Just a few friendly laundry tips can make a big difference.
Remember to sort your clothes, wash them in cold water, and use gentle cycles. This will keep your clothes looking fantastic for several years.
Also, steer clear and avoid harsh chemicals in a drying machine or when storing clothes exposed to direct sunlight to save yourself the hassle of needing to replace them too soon.
Also Read: How to Care for Your Plus-Size Clothes in Dubai’s Climate