Put repaired uniforms away clean and completely dry, then check the repairs before the next school term. Use the care instructions for each garment. A knitted jumper, a lined blazer and a pair of woven shorts may need different storage even when they are worn together.
Inspect repairs before the wash
Close fastenings as appropriate and check patch edges, new buttons and seams. Follow both the garment and repair-material instructions when washing. If an edge is already lifting, deal with it before it can snag in the wash. A garment that needs professional cleaning should follow that instruction. Allow each item to dry fully, including thick joins, hems and patch layers.
Store by garment shape
Fold a knitted jumper rather than leaving its weight hanging from the shoulders for a long period. Lay it flat to dry first if that is the recommended method. Use a hanger that supports the shoulders of a blazer, with enough room for the fabric to hang without crushing. For trousers and skirts, keep the repaired area from being pressed tightly against a hard edge or heavy stack. Store in a clean, dry space away from direct sunlight.
Put work still to do in a separate place
If a repair needs checking or the garment may no longer fit, put a note with it. Keep items awaiting alterations apart from ready-to-wear pieces so they do not get mixed into the next morning’s uniform. Record any special washing instructions where others handling the garment can find them. For wool, use the manufacturer’s guidance on long-term storage and inspect the garment before wearing it again.
Do a pre-term check in good light
Try on the uniform with the correct shoes. Look again at the repaired patch, hem, button or zip. A good storage result is a clean, dry garment with intact repairs and a fit that still works. If a knee patch now curls or the trousers are too short, add that job to the repair list before the first day back.
References
- Woolmark — how to store wool clothes
- Woolmark — how to dry wool
- ACCC Product Safety — care labelling on clothing and textiles