Getting the Most Out of School Uniforms: Smart Laundry & Wear Tips

• Make sure you are stocked up on the essentials: Buy multiple shirts and socks etc so you don’t have to put a wash on every day! This not also saves you time, it also helps to keep those essential pieces from getting worn out and tired quickly.

• Durable is best: Cotton/poly blends last longer. Sometimes paying a bit more is the best way to not have to buy again! You’ll save money in the long run!

• Consider second-hand or swap shops: many schools or community projects offer nearly-new uniforms. So you can grab more for less!

• Wash in colder water: Hot water fades colours and wears fabric down faster. Pick yourself a detergent that can give you great power in a short, cool cycle. Definitely add Surf Magnifiscent or Persil Wonderwash to your next Savers haul.

Top tip: Turn clothes inside out before washing to prevent fading and pilling.

• Use a gentle detergent: Gentle detergents are easier on fabric and often better for sensitive skin. Perfect for uniforms!

• Air dry when possible: Tumble drying can shrink or weaken fabric, especially shirts and sweaters. This is where having yourself a few pairs of everything pays off!

• Skip the bleach: It can cause yellowing or damage fabric — use baking soda or vinegar for whitening instead.

Treat stains quickly: Use a stain remover or rub a little detergent into the area before washing. Stock up on stain wipes for little accidents and a stain gel for near where kids change out of their uniform.

Know your stains:

Ink? Try rubbing alcohol.

Grass? Use vinegar or a paste of baking soda + water.

Food? Soak in cold water, then use a biological detergent.

Sew on name labels: Nothing worse than your kids coming back with miscellaneous cardigans or losing half their PE kit! Labelling their clothes reduces the chances of uniform going missing!

Do small repairs early: Fix loose buttons, fraying hems before they become big issues.

Rotate uniforms: Having different options to wear so each item gets even wear.

Hang blazers/jumpers after use: air out and avoid stretching. Spritz a bit of fabric freshener if you need a little extra care.

Polish leather shoes weekly: protect and improve longevity of school shoes. Even when they play footie and trash them each lunch time!

Use insoles or protectors for sweaty feet: this can help avoid odour and damage.

Velcro care: pick out lint with a comb to keep it sticking properly.