Thrift shopping is enough to make anyone feel good about themselves. It also makes you feel good about saving money, as you can get some really high-quality items for cheap. And when you’re thrift shopping, it almost goes without saying that you can find some vintage gems if you look in the right places.
But there’s a problem with vintage items now and then. And it’s that they do need proper sanitization and be somewhat of a health hazard if you fail to. We’re here to help you out with a little guide on how to clean thrift clothes.
Keep reading to learn more.
Inspect and Sort
The first step on how to clean thrift clothes is to inspect the clothes. Before diving into the cleaning process, take a closer look at your thrifted treasures.
Check for any stains, tears, or loose threads that may need attention before washing. Sort the items based on their fabric type and care instructions to ensure proper treatment for each piece.
Pre-Treat Stains
Stains are a common issue with thrifted clothing, but fret not they can often be removed with a little effort. Treat stains promptly by using a gentle stain remover or by dabbing the affected area with a mixture of mild detergent and water. Allow the pre-treatment to work for a few minutes before moving on to the next step.
Follow Care Instructions
Always read the care labels or fabric content tags on your thrifted garments. These instructions provide valuable guidance on the best way to care for and sanitize thrift store clothes. Pay attention to recommended water temperature, washing machine settings, and whether hand-washing or dry cleaning is required.
Hand-Washing
For delicate or sensitive fabrics, hand-washing is often the safest option. Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent specifically formulated for hand-washing.
Gently agitate the clothing in the soapy water, giving more attention to stained or soiled areas. Rinse thoroughly, gently squeeze out excess water, and lay the item flat to dry on a clean towel.
Machine-Washing
Most thrifted clothes can be safely machine-washed. However, it’s essential to choose the appropriate settings.
Turn the clothes inside out to protect any delicate embellishments or prints. Use a gentle cycle and cold water to prevent color fading or fabric damage.
Opt for a mild detergent and avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals that could further weaken the fabric. After washing, promptly remove the clothes from the machine to prevent wrinkling.
Drying
When it comes to drying your thrifted clothes, there are a few options to consider. Air-drying is often the safest choice, allowing the clothes to naturally dry without risking damage or shrinking. However, some fabrics can withstand machine drying on a low heat setting.
To learn more about the ins and outs of thrift stores, check out this comprehensive guide to thrift stores here. It’s important to follow the care instructions and choose the appropriate drying method to maintain the quality and longevity of your secondhand finds.
This Is How to Clean Thrift Clothes
As you can see, thrifting can be a very rewarding experience! As long as you follow this guide on how to clean thrift clothes, you can find fantastic secondhand items to add to your wardrobe.
Keep in mind that proper cleaning is key, and you can make nearly any piece look brand new. So don’t miss out – get out there and start shopping at thrift stores!
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