Many of us love the feeling of a great outfit. We all know that one shirt that makes us feel instantly professional, or those pants that make us feel a foot taller.
Damaging or staining such a beloved item can feel like losing a friend— devastating. And, since the average American spends a whopping $1,800 on clothing a year, ruining too many pieces of clothing can be surprisingly expensive.
If you’ve recently ruined a favorite garment, or if you’re looking to save money on your wardrobe, read on. Here are 10 clever repair tricks to help your clothes live a bit longer.
- Save a button with clear nail polish. Just a dab will prevent the thread from unraveling until you have time to sew it properly.
- No shoe polish? Try moisturizer. The oils in the moisturizer will give materials like leather and faux leather fresh shine and suppleness.
- Deodorize smelly gym sneakers by sprinkling a bit of baking soda in them after each use.
- Baking soda mixed with lemon juice also makes a great scrub for eliminating pit stains.
- Do your stockings have a run? Stop the split temporarily with clear nail polish. Spritzing the thin fabric with hair spray can also help prevent tears before they start.
- If your sweater has started pilling, try using a razor. The blade can shave away unsightly tufts of fraying fabric in a flash.
- Many swear by baby wipes as a method of removing deodorant stains. Simply rub the white spots until they disappear!
- Try using shaving cream to lift makeup and foundation stains off of a hemline. Blot the stained area with the cream, then toss in the wash.
- Baking soda really is a miracle ingredient. Use a toothbrush and a paste made of baking soda and water to whiten grimy sneakers.
- Nothing wrecks your day like stepping your favorite shoes in a wad of gum. To pull the stuff out of your tread, press ice against the area for 20 minutes. The gum should harden enough to be removed with ease.
With so many ways to wreck an outfit, looking your best can be a chore. Try any of these smart tips to help your clothes last a little longer. With these clever hacks, no rip, stain, or loose thread will ruin your day again!
