Khaki pants are a wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down for many occasions. With proper care, you can extend the lifespan of your khakis so you get the most wear out of them. Here are some tips to help keep your khaki pants for men looking fresh.
Invest in Quality Khakis
When purchasing new khakis, look for ones made of 100% cotton or a cotton-blend fabric. Pure cotton khakis will be breathable and soft, while a touch of spandex or other stretchy fibers makes them flexible and comfortable. Good quality khakis won’t lose their shape or fade as quickly as cheaper pairs. It’s worth spending a little more upfront for pants that will hold up well over time. Stick to reputable brands known for durable khakis.
Wash Less Frequently
Khakis don’t need to be washed after every single wear, especially if they haven’t gotten dirty. After a light day of wear, let them air out overnight before putting them back in your closet. For a quick freshening between washes, steam them or use a fabric refresher spray. Washing less often keeps the fibers and color from breaking down as quickly. Only launder when the khakis have visible stains or odors.
Wash And Dry Carefully
When it is time to wash your khakis, turn them inside out first. Zip up zippers and velcro closures so they don’t snag. Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Don’t use bleach or fabric softener, which can degrade the fibers. Tumble dry low if needed, but avoid over-drying which can damage the elasticity. For less wear and tear, dry flat or hang dry instead.
Spot Clean Messes
If a small stain or spill occurs, don’t throw the khakis directly into the wash. First try spot cleaning the soiled area with a small amount of mild detergent and cool water. Dab gently at the stain to lift it, rinsing with clean water. Spot treat with stain removers formulated for cotton. Let air dry before assessing if the spot is gone. Hand washing stains right away prevents them from setting into the fabric.
Use Proper Folding/Hanging Methods
To prevent creases from forming, fold khakis neatly and avoid bunching them up tightly. Button and zip before folding. Hang up khakis between wears whenever possible, using wide pant hangers. If folded in a drawer, lay flat and avoid sharp creases. Steam pants lightly to smooth out any wrinkles before wearing. Proper storage habits keep khakis looking crisp.
Remove Pills With A De-Fuzzer
Over time, cotton khakis can develop “pilling” or small fuzzy balls on the surface. Using a de-fuzzing shaver safely removes these pills without damaging the pants. Gently run the de-fuzzer over pilled areas in various directions. Remove any pills it collects and continue until the area looks smooth again. De-fuzz regularly to keep khakis looking new.
Patch Small Holes
If your trusty khakis develop a small hole, promptly patch it to avoid bigger rips. Use an iron-on adhesive patch made of cotton and cut it slightly larger than the hole. Place the patch adhesive-side down over the hole and iron for 10-15 seconds. Let cool completely before wearing. For very small holes, a few neat stitches by hand works too. Patching extends the life of your khakis.
Sew Loose Buttons
Don’t wait until a loose button falls off to take action. At the first sign of a loose button, re-sew it on right away. Line up the 2 open holes and sew through them several times using strong cotton thread matched to the button color. Tie knots at the ends of the thread. For badly damaged buttons, simply replace them with extras from an alteration kit or spare buttons. Secure buttons keep your khakis in top shape.
Use Protective Accessories
Bike chains, backpacks, and car seats can all cause holes or fraying at the waist and cuffs of your khakis over time. Reduce this type of wear and tear by using protective accessories. Leather belts around the waist guard against bike chain snags. Cuff bracelets on the hem help with backpack straps rubbing. Clip a towel over your khakis when getting in and out of the car. Protecting vulnerable spots keeps them looking nicer.
By properly caring for your khaki pants, you can add years to their lifespan. Invest in quality and wash mindfully. Mend flaws as they happen and use protective accessories to avoid excess damage. Follow these tips and your favorite khakis will remain an integral part of your wardrobe for seasons to come.
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