When properly maintained and cared for, a high-quality suit can literally last a lifetime -- well, until you grow out of it, at least. Unfortunately, though, it's not uncommon for guys to replace their suits just years or even months after purchasing it. Given the cost of a new suit, frequent replacements such as this can be downright expensive. However, you can keep your suit looking like new by avoiding the following mistakes.
#1) Using a Plastic Clothes Hanger
Don't try to hang your suit on a cheap plastic clothes hanger. While perfectly fine for hanging basic t-shirts and even some trousers, cheap hangers such as these lack the strength to support a suit jacket. The plastic may bend or even break, causing your suit jacket to lose its shape. So, hang your suit jacket on a heavy-duty clothes hanger, such as those made of real wood.
#2) Wearing the Wrong Size
You can't expect your suit to last if it doesn't fit right. If your suit is too small, for instance, it will stretch a little bit every time you wear it. And when it's forced to stretch beyond its limits, the seams will give out. To prevent this from happening, you should choose a suit that's sized to fit your body. Here at StudioSuits, we make this process a breeze by offer custom sizing on all suits at no additional charge.
#3) Washing Machine and Dryer
Another mistake that can shorten the lifespan of your suit is placing it in the washing machine or clothes dryer. Although there are a few exceptions, most suits are not washing machine and dryer safe. Whether it's a pair of suit trousers or a jacket, placing these garments in the washing machine or clothes dryer can cause substantial damage to them.
#4) Not Checking Care Label
Following that same principle, some guys are guilty of overlooking the care label on their suits. Typically found inside the collar for suit jackets and inside the waistband for trousers, this label reveals specific instructions on how to clean and care for the suit. Because these instructions are made by the manufacturer, you can rest assured knowing they are accurate. Nonetheless, some guys are completely oblivious to the fact that their suits even have a care label. But if you want your suit to last (and you should), you must check and follow the instructions listed on the care label; otherwise, you won't know how to care for your suit properly.
#5) Not Brushing
Yes, suits should be brushed on a regular basis to remove excess lint and debris while preserving the suit's integrity and appearance. Wool suits are particularly notorious for attracting lint and debris. After wearing for a day, you'll probably discover fuzz balls on it. You can clean it, however, by brushing it. There are even special brushes designed specifically for cleaning suits. Try to get into the habit of brushing your suit after each use to prolong its lifespan and protect against damage.
#6) Choosing a Low-Quality Suit
Of course, another mistake that will undoubtedly shorten the life of your suit is choosing a low-quality suit. Some guys assume that buying the cheapest suit will save them money. In reality, though, they end up paying more in the long run when they are forced to replace it. If you spend the extra money initially by purchasing a high-quality suit, you'll find that it lasts longer while offering a higher level of comfort and style.
#7) Using Too Many Spot-Cleaning Products
You should think twice before using spot-cleaning products on your suit. Granted, a stain removing spray shouldn't cause any damage when used sparingly. If you use it or other spot-cleaning products regularly, however, you may notice damage in the form of discoloration. The area where the product was used will typically have a lighter tone than the rest of your suit. Unfortunately, when this occurs there's no easy way to fix it. Therefore, you should avoid using too many spot-cleaning products on your suit.
#8) Not Rotating Suits
If you wear a suit on a regular basis, you should avoid wearing the same one for multiple consecutive days. Rather, it's recommended that you rotate several suits in your wardrobe. If you wear a suit on Monday, for instance, wear a different suit on Tuesday. Even if you only own two suits, this will allow you to wash one while wearing the other. As a result, it's recommended that you rotate your suits by wearing a different one every day. Avoiding this mistake will make your suits last longer.
#9) Using an Iron
Whether your suit is made of wool, cotton, linen or corduroy, you shouldn't use an iron on it. When your suit becomes wrinkled, you may feel the need to iron it. And given the fact that most clothes are iron safe, you may assume that it's okay to iron a suit as well. However, ironing a suit can cause significant damage, as the high heat literally melts the fabric. If you want to remove wrinkles without damaging your, try using a steamer instead.
#10) Getting it Too Dirty
Your suit probably won't last too long if you get it dirty every time you wear it. Whether it's ketchup, mustard, coffee or mud, stains will take a toll on your suit over time. Granted, you can probably clean them either by using a spot-cleaning product or by taking your suit to the dry cleaners. If the stains continue, however, they'll eventually leave visible imperfections on your suit. Making any of these 10 mistakes will shorten the lifespan of your suit. To make your suit last, you should avoid making these mistakes. Taking a proactive approach towards maintaining your suit will allow you to get the most bang for your buck. The most important thing, however, is to choose a high-quality suit instead of a cheap, low-quality suit.
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