We want you to get as much mileage out of your suit as possible. Here is a list of a few things you can do to make sure your suit lasts you many, many years.
1.) Use Wooden Hangers
Natural wood hangers retain moisture from the garment. Make sure the hanger is also big enough to hold up the shoulders to keep the shape of the jacket. We strongly suggest a wooden hanger over a plastic or especially a wire hanger, a wire hanger will ruin the shape of the shoulders very quickly.
2.) Ventilated Garment Bags
Keep the top zipper unzipped part way and make sure it isn't crammed into your closet. Give the suit and the garment bag some room to breathe.
3.) Dry Clean Only & Rarely
Take your suit to the dry cleaner as few times per years as possible. We're talking about one-two times max! Only when there is visible stains for a spot cleaning or if it starts to smell. The chemicals from the dry cleaner will ruin the fabric over time so if you want to keep that great looking suit for a long time limit your visits to the dry cleaner.
4.) Never Iron or Shower Steam
We've heard of people putting a pocket square or cloth between the iron and the suit fabric if needed to get the wrinkles out but that is as far as you want to go. If you need to get the wrinkles out of a suit most will naturally come out after being hung from a hanger for 24 hours. You'll see many people suggest hanging the suit in the bathroom with hot water running from the shower, don't do it! The water vapors can actually damage the suit.
5.) Give Your Suit a Day or Two Off
Your suit needs more days off then you do. This helps it breathe and regain its shape. By mixing and matching your wardrobe throughout the week this shouldn't be a problem. It is why we suggest at least 2-3 suits in your wardrobe.
Bonus Tips
- Unbutton the jacket when sitting down
- Try not to drape the jacket over the back of a chair, hang it up or lay it down if you're able, to keep the shape of the shoulders
- If you gain weight over the years and the suit is getting tight, bring it to a tailor to have them let it out, otherwise you will be putting stress on the suit
- Brush your suit to remove any debris after use