How to Care for Your Kids’ Clothes So They Last Longer

At Balibebe, we understand that kids’ clothes can take quite a beating. From playground adventures to beach plays, our outfits are designed to withstand a lot. Still, as our fabrics are relatively thin and natural (except for swimwear), they require more delicate care compared to thicker semi-synthetic materials from mass market. With proper care, your favorite items can last for a long time.

Here’s how to care for your kids’ clothes to keep them looking fresh and new.

Washing Tips

Use Gentle Detergents
Choose mild, hypoallergenic detergents specifically formulated for delicate fabrics. Harsh chemicals can cause wear and tear, leading to premature fading and damage. Personally, I use AmWay; it cleans effectively while being gentle on clothes and skin.

Wash in Warm Water
Cold water may not always remove stains effectively, and boiling hot water can reduce fabric longevity. Warm water, around 40-60°C, is ideal for a thorough yet gentle daily wash.

Wash Similar Colors Separately
To prevent color transfer, wash similar colors together and keep whites separate.

Drying Tips

Air Dry When Possible
Air drying is the gentlest method and helps prevent shrinkage and damage from high-heat dryers.

For humid environments like Bali, I have a life hack: dry clothes in the air or in a room with working air conditioning, then tumble dry them for just 10 minutes. This method preserves the fabric and ensures clothes are completely dry and soft.

Reminder: Never tumble dry knits or swimwear. Fabrics with elastane or elastics can also be negatively affected by heat.

Avoid High Heat
If using a dryer, select a low heat or air fluff setting. High heat can weaken fabric fibers and cause shrinking.

Reshape and Lay Flat
For garments prone to stretching, such as sweaters, reshape them while damp and lay flat to dry. This helps maintain their original shape and fit.

Stain Removal

Pre-Treat Stains Quickly
Act fast when dealing with stains. Pre-treat with a gentle stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water. Addressing stains promptly makes them easier to remove.

Use Natural Stain Removers
Opt for natural or non-toxic stain removers to protect your child’s sensitive skin and the environment. Ingredients like vinegar and lemon juice can be effective for treating common stains.

Storage Tips

Use Hangers or Organizers
For items that should hang, use padded hangers to preserve their shape. For folded clothes, use drawer dividers or organizers to keep everything neat and prevent unnecessary creasing.

Avoid Direct Sunlight
Store clothes in a cool, dark place to prevent fading from prolonged exposure to sunlight. Sunlight can cause colors to dull over time.

Use Garment Bags
For special or delicate items, such as formal wear or heirloom pieces, use garment bags to protect them from dust and potential damage. This simple step can significantly extend the life of cherished garments.