Garment Care

How to wash, dry and store your vintage pieces so they last.

Wool & cashmere

Wool and cashmere breathe well and are hard-wearing, but need gentle handling to keep their shape and softness.

  • Dry clean, unless the label says hand washing is safe.
  • Fold heavy knits rather than hanging them, so they don’t stretch.
  • Cedar blocks or lavender help keep moths away.

Silk

Vintage silk is delicate. Water can mark it and the colour can run.

  • Always dry clean structured silk garments.
  • Store it out of direct sunlight so it doesn’t fade.
  • Iron on the lowest setting with a pressing cloth, or steam carefully.

Cotton & linen

Cotton and linen are durable, but can shrink or go limp if they are washed or dried too hot.

  • Machine wash on a cold, gentle cycle, or hand wash.
  • Air dry flat or on a well-padded hanger.
  • Iron while still slightly damp.

Leather & suede

Leather and suede are hardy but react badly to water, heat and direct sun, so they need a gentler routine than other fabrics.

  • Never machine wash or tumble dry. Use a specialist leather or suede cleaner.
  • If it gets wet, let it air dry away from direct heat, then condition leather or brush suede to lift the nap.
  • Use a suede brush to remove marks and dust, and store leather pieces stuffed with tissue to help them hold their shape.

Stains & odours

Old stains and stale smells are common on vintage pieces, and harsh treatment can do more harm than the mark itself.

  • Test any cleaner on a hidden seam first, and avoid bleach and hot water.
  • Air a musty piece outside in the shade for a day or two before you wash it.
  • For set-in stains on delicate or old fabrics, take it to a dry cleaner who handles vintage.

Moths & pests

Moths and silverfish go for natural fibres, especially wool, silk and anything left unworn.

  • Wear and air your pieces now and then, and keep the wardrobe clean and dry.
  • Wash or dry clean a garment before you store it for a season, since moths are drawn to body oils and food marks.
  • Check stored pieces every few months for small holes or fine webbing.

Storage

How you store vintage clothes makes a big difference to how long they last.

  • Use padded or wooden hangers for jackets and coats.
  • Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
  • For long-term storage use breathable cotton garment bags, not plastic.

Questions about a specific piece?

Contact our studio