Owning a suit is a must for many, whether for professional, formal, or special occasions. However, the investment you make in a good suit doesn't end when you leave the store. To keep your suit looking sharp and extending its lifespan, proper care is essential. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to care for your suit, ensuring it remains a wardrobe staple for years to come.
Proper Storage
One of the simplest yet most crucial aspects of suit care is how you store it. Always hang your suit on a sturdy, wide-shouldered hanger. Thin, wire hangers can cause the fabric to stretch or even leave unsightly creases. Avoid cramming your suit into a packed closet. It needs space to breathe and hang freely to avoid wrinkles. Use a breathable garment bag to protect your suit from dust while allowing air circulation. Avoid plastic covers, as they can trap moisture, leading to mildew.
For those who only wear suits occasionally, proper long-term storage is crucial. Ensure your suit is clean before storing it for an extended period. Any stains left untreated can become permanent. Store your suit in a cool, dry place. Avoid basements or attics where temperature and humidity can fluctuate, potentially damaging the fabric.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Knowing how and when to clean your suit is key to its longevity. Only dry clean your suit when necessary. Over-cleaning can damage the fabric and shorten the suit’s lifespan. Typically, two to three times a year is enough, unless it’s worn frequently. For minor stains or dirt, spot cleaning with a damp cloth is often sufficient. Avoid rubbing too hard to prevent damaging the fabric. Use a clothes brush to remove dust and dirt after each wear. This simple step helps maintain the fabric’s quality and keeps it looking fresh.
Pressing and Steaming
Wrinkles are inevitable, but how you deal with them makes all the difference. If your suit becomes wrinkled, pressing it with an iron can help, but always use a pressing cloth and a low heat setting to avoid shining or burning the fabric. Steaming is a gentler alternative to ironing, as it relaxes the fabric and removes wrinkles without direct contact. A handheld steamer is a great investment for maintaining your suit at home.
Rotation and Rest
If you wear suits regularly, it’s important to rotate them. Having more than one suit allows you to rotate them, giving each suit time to rest between wears. This prevents wear and tear from daily use and extends the life of your suits. After wearing a suit, give it a day or two of rest to allow the fabric to recover and regain its shape.
Traveling with Your Suit
Traveling with a suit can be tricky, but with the right techniques, you can keep it looking crisp. When traveling, use a garment bag to protect your suit from wrinkles and dirt. If a garment bag isn't an option, carefully fold your suit inside out to protect the outer fabric and place it on top of your luggage to minimize creasing. When you arrive, hang it immediately and use a steamer to remove any wrinkles.
Handling Repairs
Even with the best care, minor issues can arise. Keep spare buttons on hand and know a reliable tailor who can quickly replace them. If your suit needs adjustments or starts to wear at the hems, consult a professional tailor. Avoid DIY fixes unless you’re confident in your sewing skills.
Taking care of your suit is about more than just looking good—it’s about protecting your investment. By following these steps for storage, cleaning, maintenance, and repairs, your suit will continue to look sharp and serve you well for years. Whether it’s for the boardroom or a special occasion, a well-maintained suit is a mark of elegance and attention to detail that never goes out of style.
