Vintage Part 2 - 8 Tips on How to Take Care of Vintage Clothing

Last week, I interviewed Jasmine Chee of Dark Horse Vintage and she shared with us what vintage is and her 6 tips for buying vintage clothing. It's all done and good if you've invested in one such garment, but how do you care for it and stop it from deteriorating in Singapore's hot weather! A few years back I had shared my tips on making clothes last longer, but a little extra care is needed with vintage pieces as Jasmine explains. 

Laundering Tips

#1 Handwash is Best

Vintage garments tend to be very delicate especially if they are handsewn or are tailored from fragile or fine fabrics such as silk or chiffon. Handwashing will prolong the garment and minimise the friction of the fibers during the washing.  Jasmine says that if in doubt do approach a dry cleaner who has experience with delicate wear.

#2 Cold Wash

If you don't have time to handwash, then pop the garment into a laundry bag before putting it into the washing machine. Set the machine to COLD and low spin. Hot water will soften and damage the fibers. If the garment is very wet, avoid spinning at high speeds, and instead lay it flat on a towel and roll it up to squeeze out excess water. 

#3 Knits Dry Flat

Ever hung up a knitted garment and found it drooped by the end of the day? The best thing is dry it flat on a rack. Again, squeeze out excess water with a towel as in #2.

#4 Avoid the Sun

That's if you have colourful prints on your vintage garment - the colours will fade. Otherwise, if it's white then use sunlight to naturally whiten your whites. 

#5 Dry Inside Out

I always have an issue with my family not turning their clothes the right way around before putting them in the laundry basket. But, Jasmine says it is a good thing because the fibers on the right side won't be damaged as much. OK!

Storage Tips

#6 Hang or Fold?

Jasmine advises to fold delicate or knit vintage garments rather than hang them. 

#7 Acid Proof Paper

Acid proof paper helps protects your vintage clothing and apparently, it slows down their disintegration. 

#8 White Peppercorns

Yes, the little white tangy seeds are useful not only in the kitchen but in our wardrobe too. Jasmine says this old technique was used before moth balls were invented. These natural moth repellents can be bought in any spice store or supermarket. Just put a small handful of seeds into a sock or tissue and slip them between the clothes. Depending on the humidity, the peppers will have to be replenished once the peppery smell goes. Please be careful that you don't end up buying black seeds or else your garments will be stained. If you are living in colder climates then the best thing would be to use lavender or rosemary.

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