Fresh clothes yet still save water
Extend the life of your fave pieces by washing them less, writes Gerry Cupido
CLEAN LOOK: Wear your jeans four to five times, then wash.
CAPETONIANS are finding as many ways as possible to reduce water usage in an attempt to save the little water we have left. Shiny clean cars and lush green gardens have become a rare sight. No longer are we able to indulge in long hot bubble baths. These are just a few things we’ve had to sacrifice to conserve water.
There was a time that you would wear a clothing item once then toss it into the washing machine, flip a switch and do the smallest load of washing desired.
Laundry uses a large volume of our water quota, but the good news is that there are many ways to effectively keep our garments clean and in good condition without wasting precious water.
This doesn’t mean that you have to walk around in dirty clothes. A Cape Town Fashion Council initiative in association with Fashion Revolution Cape Town have created the Zero Laundry Campaign and offer tips on how to save water and still take care of your clothes.
First, let’s establish how often you should be washing specific items. Over washing damages most garments and can shorten their lifespan dramatically.
Underwear, swimwear and socks: One wear (use your shower bucket to hand wash your delicates).
Bras – two to three wears (give your bras a rest day between wears to give the elastic a chance to regain its shape).
T-shirts, tank tops and camisoles: One to two wears (steaming these garments can increase the wear between washing). Pyjamas: Three to four wears. Trousers and skirts: Five to seven wears.
Jackets and sweatshirts: Six to seven wears.
Suits should be dry-cleaned once per month (if worn two to three times a week). Jeans: Four to five wears. Leggings and yoga pants: One to three wears.