The single biggest factor in how long a garment lasts is not price or fibre quality — it is how it is washed. Here is what actually makes a difference.
Wash less, and colder
Outer layers such as jackets, jeans and knitwear rarely need washing after a single wear. Airing overnight removes most odour. When you do wash, 30°C cleans normal soiling perfectly well and does far less damage to fibres and colour.
Turn things inside out
Abrasion in the drum is what fades dark cotton and pills knitwear. Inside out means the damage happens where nobody sees it.
Skip the tumble dryer
Heat is what shrinks cotton and destroys elastane. Line drying costs nothing and adds years. If you must tumble, use the lowest heat and take things out damp.
Use less detergent, and no softener
Excess detergent leaves residue that stiffens fabric. Fabric softener coats fibres and ruins the absorbency of towels and the breathability of technical fabrics.
Store knitwear folded
Hanging a wool jumper stretches the shoulders permanently. Fold it.
Deal with stains immediately
Cold water and patience remove most fresh stains. Heat sets them permanently, so never put a stained garment through a warm wash before treating it.
