From putting jeans in the freezer to using vodka to remove odours, M&S expert Gail Downie sorts laundry care fact from fiction and shares top tips for keeping your wardrobe fresh.
From your favourite jeans to your go-to gym kit, caring for your clothes properly can prolong their lifespan. Head of garment technology at M&S, Gail Downie, shares laundry advice, debunks common myths and reveals must-know care tips.
Love your denim
Denim is built to last, but that’s not to say we don’t need to take care of it, Gail says:
“Wash your jeans inside out at 30°C to reduce energy consumption.Make sure zips and buttons are done up to prevent snagging. Don’t believe the myth about freezing jeans; it won’t clean them – regular washing is best.”
Activewear care
As we sweat in sportswear it’s likely to develop odours and sweat stains which can become trapped in the fabric. Gail recommends:
“Air workout gear before washing and avoid mixing it with everyday laundry to prevent odour transfer. You can use clothes mists and fabric fresheners to keep your workout gear smelling fresh for longer butalways pop in the wash if you’ve had a strenuous workout.”
The missing sock conundrum
We all know the feeling of going through our laundry after a wash to find endless numbers of companionless of socks. Gail has a tip to prevent this:
“Washing your socks and tights in a mesh wash bag or pillowcasekeeps them together. You can also use this trick for machine washable shoes, such as some trainers. But it’s always best to wash footwear separately from other clothing items so that any dirt doesn’t transfer.”
The secrets of silk and satin
Silk and satin are delicate fabrics and can require a little more TLC. Gail has the following advice:
“Always separate more delicate pieces like satin and silk dresses from heavy clothing such as jeans. Washing them in a mesh bag or pillowcase protects them.
“If you are concerned about machine washing, you can hand washsilk and satin. Fill a basin with lukewarm water (around 30°C) andsensitive washing detergent and then leave them to soak for a couple of minutes before rinsing in cold water. Use a towel to absorb any excess water and avoid direct sunlight when drying to prevent fading.”
Tackling stubborn stains
With Google searches for ‘removing stains’ up 37% in the past two weeks*, it’s clear that Brits need guidance. Gail shares her best tips:
• Sticky stains (like syrup or jam)
“Spray with water, remove residue with a spoon, then blot with white vinegar. This technique is great for shirts, but I would avoid for delicate fabrics.”
• Chocolate or grass stains
“Blot away excess, apply a baking soda paste, rinse, and repeat before washing. Proceed with caution though as some fabrics are hardier than others.”
• Always test stain removers
“Be warned, DIY stain removal treatments like vinegar and baking soda may lighten or damage some fabrics, so test on a discreet area first.”
How often should you wash?
Washing too frequently can wear out fabrics. Gail suggests this general rule:
“It’s up to you how long you go between washes, except for underwearwhich should be washed after every wear. Using common sense is key.If spill something on freshly washed jeans, you are better spot cleaning than putting in the wash to protect the shape and elasticity.”
