It is important to remove the removable zipper from your garment bag before cleaning or washing it. The zipper can get caught and tear the garment bag's delicate material, resulting in irreversible damage to the bag.
Zippers can also become stuck in the machine, causing it to malfunction or become damaged. Or, the zipper can become entangled with other clothes or items in the washing machine. This can cause the clothes to knot, making them difficult to separate.
Before washing your garment bag, it is essential to shake it out. This step helps remove any dirt, dust, or embellishments that could have gotten trapped inside the bag.
First, turn the bag inside out. Take it outside or to an open space to shake it out. Hold the bag by the top and shake it vigorously. You can also use a brush to help you remove any additional dust or debris that might have remained in the garment bag.
Shaking out the garment bag also helps restore the bag's shape. It is a quick and easy way to prepare your bag for the wash cycle.
When washing your garment bags, it is essential to use cold water to prevent the bags from shrinking, fading, or losing their shape. Warm water can cause the cotton fibers to break down and weaken, resulting in holes or tears. Cold water is gentler on fabric.
To help remove odors or stains, add a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle. Bleach and fabric softeners should be avoided as they can damage the fabric and shorten the life of the bag.
Hand-washing is one of the best ways to clean your garment bags because it gives you more control over the process and ensures that the bags are handled gently.
To hand wash, place the bag in a tub of cold water mixed with mild detergent. Gently, move the bag around in the water, paying special attention to any areas that may be especially dirty or stained. Avoid scrubbing too vigorously as that can harm the fabric and cause the bag to lose its shape.
After you've finished washing the bag, drain the basin or sink and refill it with cold water. Rinse the bag thoroughly to ensure that all of the detergent is removed.
Lastly, gently squeeze out the excess water from the bag without twisting or squeezing it.
Tumble-drying your garment bags is not advised because the fabric may shrink, deform, or become damaged. The high heat and fast spinning of a dryer can cause the fibers in the material to break down, which can lead to a loss of color, shape, and overall quality.
Instead, it’s best to air dry bags after washing them. Hang the cotton garment bag in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat to dry naturally. A clothesline or drying rack can be used.
It is also imperative to make sure your bags are completely dry before using them. Any remaining moisture can cause mildew or mold growth, causing fabric damage and unpleasant odors.
Avoid using harmful chemicals or detergents that can damage the fabric or leave a residue when cleaning your bags. Chemicals such as bleach or fabric softener can damage the fabric's fibers, causing them to become weak and brittle over time.
Instead, use a gentle detergent or soap designed specifically for delicate fabrics. Look for products labeled gentle or eco-friendly, and avoid using any that contain bleach or other harsh additives. Use a small amount of detergent and dilute it with water when washing your bag to prevent damage.
Cleaning your bags on a regular basis is pivotal to preserving their quality and durability. Dirt and dust can accumulate on the bag's surface over time. But you can prevent this from happening by cleaning your bags regularly.
Make sure you read our article on seasonal clothing storage tips for best practices.
