So now that you've spent your $900 on some solid warez it won't take long (usually a night out) to damage your shit. BLAM, that $100 tee is now being used as a pyjama impressing your slumber party mates cause you couldn't get that black club floor shit off your tee.
This is a guide to preserving items of clothing as best as possible.
Main guide :
For the most part the washing machine is your bestest friend, short cycle on cold wash with about 3 generous tablespoons of detergent. Short cycle it because unless you been digging trenches in the mud there's no real need for 2 hour sessions, that and saving water is kinda like a big deal. Use cold water 'cause hot water generally fucks with fabrics, it can lead to different shrinkage between the thread and the fabric making the garment warp. Use small amounts of detergent 'cause these companies are taking over the world and want you to spend more and consume more, most detergents are so concentrated that you really don't need a whole scoopful for your load.
DON'T use the dryer, they are evil and will destroy your clothing, instead hang dry, it's nice and better for the environment and your wallet.
Selvedge denim guide :
Some people will tell you that never washing your denim is a good thing. It's not. Washing your denim will actually make it stronger by tightening the weave that will have stretched during wear.
The first wash is critical for maximum wear markage and e-props so listen close - cold water wash on short cycle in gentle mode, gentle mode (might be a wool setting on your washing machine). I use 3 tablespoons of diluted salt and 1 tablespoon of detergent (you can also get real geeky and use denim specific detergent). Basically the salt will keep the dye in the dark parts and the lighter parts will wash out hence giving you extra points in the wear department. Pull your jeans out before the spin cycle and just hang dry dripping wet. Leaving them in for the spin cycle can cause unwanted creases in the jean.
If you're too lazy to do all this a dry cleaner is also an option, although wear marks on jeans might not be as highlighted as when washed with water
DON'T use the dryer, it can make the pile of your jeans furry and will affect the original shape and fit of the jean.
T-shirts, cotton pants/shorts : please refer to main guide above.
Next week: woollens, trainers and blood.