Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Ottawa chapter.

In a world dominated by fast fashion, it can be incredibly tempting to want to buy, buy, buy the newest trends (I know it’s been tempting for me!). While the need to want to have the newest clothes is definitely hard to shake, getting the most wear out of the clothes you already have is an excellent way to save money and save the planet by keeping clothes out of the landfills and eliminating the need to have to replace clothing frequently. Here are some tips to ensure you’re able to get the most out of your clothes.

Invest in durable clothes

While this may not be possible for everyone, investing in higher quality clothing will not only lead to getting more wear but will also save you lots of money in the long run as it eliminates the need to constantly repurchase clothing that has fallen apart or lost its shape. On a budget? No problem! Shopping for clothes through thrift and consignment is much more affordable, eco-friendly and it is definitely possible to find high-quality pieces there too!

use less detergent in the wash

For as long I can remember doing my laundry, I always used a hefty amount of detergent when washing my clothes. However, detergents can be harsh and strip your clothes of their softness and colour – leading to fading. So in terms of detergent use, a little can go a long way and still do a thorough clean of your clothes while also avoiding damaging them. 

use a drying rack when possible

While dryers are excellent ways to rapidly dry clothes in a pinch, the hot air can lead to the shrinkage of your favourite pieces and can take a toll on the fabric over time. Depending on how much space you have in your home, hanging your clothing on a drying rack can prevent this from happening and ensure your clothes remain durable. 

Learn how to get rid of those stains

Depending on how large the stain is, it can definitely ruin the appearance of a piece of clothing for us. As a result, we may lead to tossing the clothing prematurely or buying another item to replace it. With fast removal though, stains can actually come out fairly fast. By carrying a stain removal pen in your purse or removing the stain as soon as you see it with water and stain remover, you can get the best of those nasty stains and save your clothes. 

Try out these strategies today! They’ll save your clothes, your money, and the environment.

Maddie Bhamjee

U Ottawa '25

Hi, my name is Madeleine or Maddie!! I am a first-year student pursuing a double major in political science and philosophy. You'll find me writing!