Sustainable Clothing Tools That Matter

Have you ever been disappointed when you pulled out a shirt from the dryer only to find that it is completely wrinkled?  Or thought a dress worked in the store but now realize it doesn't fit quite right?

These are such common experiences that I see—and have experienced—time and time again. But there are simple tricks that can restore clothing and make a piece work for you, rather than having that once-loved skirt end up in the giveaway pile.

For one, a handheld steamer—usually around $20—is your best friend. All you need is five minutes and a desire to wear that wrinkled piece of clothing again. It really is that simple. And these little steamers are miracle workers. Get one and use it. You won't regret it.

There’s also a shortcut worth knowing: simply spray a wrinkled garment lightly with water and let it dry. Often, those wrinkles will come right out.

Another incredibly useful—and sometimes underutilized—resource is your friendly neighborhood tailor. I often have pants shortened since I’m petite. Recently, I tried on a dress in the shop that I loved, but the bust was a little too big. A tailor can easily take that in and turn a dress that almost works into one I can wear for years.

So the next time you try something on and it doesn’t fit exactly right, consider whether a simple trip to the tailor—and maybe $15 or $20 in alterations—could make all the difference. A well-made, sustainable piece that truly fits you is something you can enjoy for a very long time.

In that same vein, dry cleaners can also be our friends, particularly when it comes to stubborn wrinkles or stains. It may feel like a bit of a drag, but sometimes a professional cleaning can rescue something you might otherwise stop wearing.

And lastly, I always wash delicate items in netted garment bags. For instance, I love my wool-based bras, but I don’t want them getting stretched out in the wash. That’s where a garment bag can make all the difference, helping delicate clothing keep its shape and stay in your closet longer.

I hope these tips come in handy—and help you get more life and more enjoyment out of the clothes you already own. Because sustainable clothing isn’t just about what we buy. It’s also about how we care for what we have.