Clean up your winter wardrobe midseason

I don’t know about you, but my “everyday” winter coat is looking a little limp. We’re about halfway through winter, and it’s time for a refresh. Our winter clothes get exposed to all sorts of yuck — coughs, sniffles, salt, sweat and more. Let’s explore how to keep them looking their best.

The American Cleaning Institute has shared these tips for winter clothing care. Proper care of garments helps you stay warm, functional and stylish throughout the season. Here’s how to properly care for your winter clothes, from coats and scarves to sweaters and gloves, to ensure they last for years to come:

The first step is to always read and follow the garment’s care label. If there are no words, only symbols, visit www.cleaninginstitute.org/sites/default/files/assets/1/Page/FabricCareSymbols.pdf for a chart of fabric care symbols.

Cleaning

—Machine washing: When in doubt about water temperature, choose a cold-water wash.

—Hand washing: Gently swish the garment around in the wash. Do not rub or wring. Rinse thoroughly, then roll in a towel and press gently to remove excess moisture. Some washers, though, do have hand-wash cycles.

—Drying: Hand-wash-only items should be dried flat. Most items can be dried in the dryer on low heat. Check the care label to be sure.

—Dry cleaning: In-dryer cleaning kits can be used to remove odors and light soil. For stains and heavy soil, take dry-clean-only items to a professional dry cleaner.

Daily care

Sweaters should be folded for storage. Hanging a sweater can stretch it out of shape. And be careful what jewelry you wear with your sweater. Some knits are delicate and easily snagged.

Winter weather such as snow, salt and rain can cause damage to your clothing. For outerwear, consider using a fabric protector spray to create a waterproof barrier. Salt stains can be difficult to remove if not treated quickly, especially on boots and wool.

Fix the little things before they become big. Small tears, missing buttons and fraying hems are common in winter clothing due to the rough weather. Address these issues early to prevent them from worsening. Keep a sewing kit on hand or take items to a professional for repair.

Refresh and rejuvenate

Winter garments, especially those made of down or synthetic fibers, can lose their fluff over time. Consider having your down jackets or comforters professionally cleaned and fluffed to restore their insulating power. You also can refresh wool items with a fabric steamer to remove wrinkles and odors.

We’re going to be wearing these sweaters, coats and scarves for at least two more months. Keep them (and you) looking great. Then, when it’s time (finally) to pack it away in exchange for cooler clothes, do one final deep clean of everything before storage. Stay warm.

For more information about upcoming programs in family and consumer sciences, join the Coshocton, Holmes, Wayne Family and Consumer Sciences Newsletter at holmes.osu.edu/program-areas/family-and-consumer-sciences/fcs-e-newsletter-food-family-finance.

Kate Shumaker is an OSU Extension family and consumer sciences educator and may be reached at 330-674-3015. Like and follow on Facebook @OSUEXTHolmes or visit holmes.osu.edu.