Garment Care Guide: Preserving the Beauty of Your Wardrobe

At Dahlias & Honey, we believe in helping you maintain the timeless elegance of your wardrobe. Proper care not only prolongs the life of your garments and accessories but also ensures they continue to look and feel beautiful. Below, you'll find specific care instructions for various items:

Clothing Care

1. General Fabric Care

  • Delicate Fabrics (Silk, Lace, Chiffon): Hand wash with cold water and a gentle detergent. Lay flat to dry and avoid wringing or twisting. Use a steamer or low-heat iron for wrinkles.
  • Cotton and Linen: Machine wash on a gentle cycle with cool or warm water. Hang or lay flat to dry to prevent shrinkage.
  • Polyester and Synthetic Blends: Machine wash in cold water on a delicate cycle. Tumble dry on low or hang to air dry.
  • Wool and Cashmere: Hand wash in cool water with a wool-safe detergent, or dry clean. Reshape and lay flat to dry. Avoid hanging to prevent stretching.

2. Stain Removal

  • Act quickly to blot (not rub) stains with a clean, damp cloth.
  • Use a mild detergent or stain remover suitable for the fabric type.
  • Always test cleaning products on an inconspicuous area first.

3. Storage

  • Use padded hangers for delicate or structured garments.
  • Store seasonal items in breathable garment bags to protect from dust and pests.
  • Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause damage.

Shoe Care

1. Cleaning

  • Leather Shoes: Wipe with a damp cloth, then condition with leather polish or cream. Avoid water exposure.
  • Suede Shoes: Use a suede brush to remove dirt. For stains, gently rub with a white eraser or a damp cloth and white vinegar.
  • Fabric Shoes: Spot clean with mild soap and water. Allow to air dry.

2. Maintenance

  • Use shoe trees to maintain shape and reduce creasing in leather shoes.
  • Rotate shoes to allow them to breathe and prevent excessive wear.
  • Apply a waterproof spray to protect against moisture and stains.

3. Storage

  • Keep shoes in dust bags or boxes when not in use.
  • Avoid storing in humid or excessively dry areas.

Accessories Care

1. Jewelry

  • Clean metal and gemstone jewelry with a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning solution. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage delicate stones.
  • Store jewelry in soft pouches or lined boxes to prevent scratches and tarnishing.
  • For plated items, avoid contact with water, perfume, and harsh chemicals to prolong the finish.

2. Handbags

  • Wipe with a damp cloth to remove dirt. For leather bags, use a leather conditioner to maintain suppleness.
  • Stuff bags with tissue paper when not in use to help retain their shape.
  • Store in dust bags away from direct sunlight.

3. Scarves and Hats

  • Hand wash scarves with a gentle detergent, or dry clean if labeled. Lay flat to dry and reshape as needed.
  • Spot clean hats or use a fabric brush to remove dirt. Store hats in their original shape and avoid stacking heavy items on top.

Specialty Items

1. Faux Fur and Velvet

  • Brush gently with a soft-bristle brush to remove dust or restore texture.
  • Spot clean stains with a damp cloth. Avoid excessive heat or moisture.
  • Store hanging or flat to prevent matting.

2. Sequins and Embellished Items

  • Hand wash or dry clean only to avoid damage.
  • Avoid rubbing or twisting, as it can loosen embellishments.
  • Store flat or in tissue-lined boxes to protect delicate details.

Tips for Longevity

  • Always check the care labels on your items and follow them for best results.
  • Avoid overloading your washing machine to minimize wear and tear.
  • Invest in quality garment care tools, such as steamers, fabric shavers, and lint rollers.

By following these guidelines, you’ll keep your Dahlias & Honey pieces—and all your wardrobe favorites—in excellent condition for years to come. If you have any questions about caring for specific items, feel free to contact us for more information!