Vintage Clothing Care: Maintenance

At Platform Vintage, we're passionate about authentic vintage clothing from the '60s and '70s. These cherished pieces, at least 40 years old, require special care due to the age of their fabrics and threads. While we meticulously curate our collection, selecting on quality items, proper care is essential to extend the life of your vintage finds. Investing in their upkeep is not only good for your wallet but also contributes to a more sustainable approach to fashion.

Unsure where to begin? We've compiled expert advice to help you care for your beloved vintage pieces and maximize their longevity.

Identifying the fabric

The first step is identifying the fabric. Check for any remaining care labels. However, many vintage garments no longer have them, or didn’t have them to begin with. Don't worry! We always include fabric information in the descriptions of items in our webshop. Make a note of this when you purchase an item so you can easily refer back to it. If you're still unsure about a fabric's composition, here's a helpful guide:

Without resorting to the (effective, but not recommended!) burn test, you can assess the fabric in two ways. First, observe its appearance. Consider how it drapes and its apparent weight. Lighter weight fabrics are often polyester, rayon, or silk, while stiffer, heavier fabrics might be cotton or denim. You can also try the "squeeze test": Squeeze the fabric in your warm hand, and hold for a minimum of 10 seconds. If it wrinkles easily, it's likely a natural fiber rather than a synthetic one. Next, consider the feel of the fabric. Cotton often has a slight stiffness, while silk is softer. Natural fibers like these are breathable, whereas synthetics like polyester can feel less so.

Identifying fabrics is a skill that develops with practice. Start by examining clothing you already own that still have their care labels attached. With a little time and attention, you'll soon become a fabric expert!

Fabric-Specific Maintenance

Once you’ve identified the fabrics in your vintage pieces, the next step is selecting the right care routine. Different fabrics require different approaches, and proper maintenance will keep your garments looking their best for years to come. Below is a guide to caring for common vintage fabrics.

Important: If your garment is made from a blend of fabrics, always follow the care instructions for the most delicate material. This will help prevent damage and ensure the longevity of your vintage finds.

Silk

Silk is a delicate fabric that requires gentle handling. Hand wash your silk items in cool or lukewarm water using a mild soap or gentle shampoo. Rinse with cold water, and for extra vibrancy, mix a small amount of white vinegar into the rinse water to maintain the silk’s sheen. Be sure to rinse again to remove any vinegar scent.

To dry, lay the garment flat on a clean towel and gently roll it to remove excess water. For sturdier silk pieces, you can hang them on a padded hanger. Always avoid wringing or twisting silk, as this can damage the fibers.

Cotton

Cotton is a durable fabric, but to maintain its color and structure, avoid washing it in excessively hot water. Warm water is generally safe, but cooler temperatures will help prolong its lifespan. Air drying or using a low-heat setting in the dryer will also help preserve cotton’s quality.

Knitwear

Hand washing is the safest option for wool garments. Use cool water and a gentle detergent like Eucalan (a no-rinse wool wash). Never wring or twist wool, as this can cause stretching and misshaping. Instead, roll the garment in a clean towel to remove excess moisture, then lay it flat to dry in its original shape.

Shrunk your wool item by accident? There’s hope! Soak the garment in cool water with a small amount of hair conditioner for about 60 minutes. Gently stretch it back into shape while drying, and repeat if needed. To ensure the best results, take measurements of your favorite wool pieces beforehand, so you can reshape them accurately when needed.

Polyester

Many vintage garments are made of polyester, a synthetic fabric that doesn’t tolerate heat well. You can safely machine wash polyester, but avoid high temperatures when washing, drying, or ironing.

Since polyester sheds microfibers when washed, consider these eco-friendly washing habits:

• Wash your garment only when truly necessary. Ask yourself if it can be worn once more before laundering.
  
  

• Use lower temperatures and mild detergents to reduce fiber shedding.
  
  

• Avoid tumble drying to prevent heat damage and extend the garment’s lifespan.

Leather

Leather requires special attention to maintain its durability and rich appearance. Regular cleaning, conditioning, and restoration will help preserve your vintage leather pieces for years to come. Here are some essential steps to keep your leather in top shape:

• Cleaning – Use a soft-bristle brush with saddle soap or a leather cleaner. Apply in circular motions, then wipe off with a damp microfiber cloth to prevent buildup.
  
  

• Color Restoration – Once dry, revive faded areas with a color restorer. Apply with a microfiber cloth and let it dry completely.
  
  

• Conditioning – Keep leather soft and hydrated with a suitable conditioner. For thicker, more durable items, use a heavier conditioner, or opt for a lighter one for a more subtle finish. Apply with a microfiber towel and wipe off any excess.
  
  

• Buffing (Optional) – Once dry, use a large bristle brush to enhance the leather’s natural shine.
  
  

Caring for your vintage treasures is an investment in their longevity and a commitment to sustainable fashion. By following these simple care tips, you're not only preserving the beauty of your pieces but also reducing textile waste and contributing to a more circular economy. We believe in empowering you to extend the life of your vintage finds. Want to learn more about mending and repairing your vintage pieces, from replacing a button to patching a small hole? Explore our blog for helpful tutorials and discover the satisfaction of giving your beloved garments a long life. Here's to a more sustainable wardrobe!