Most of us buy our clothes a few pieces at a time. As such, we don't realize the huge investment we've made in time and money when it comes to our wardrobes - and in ourselves. Our clothes reflect our personality and help communicate that vital first impression to others. Caring for your clothes not only extends their life, but helps you make the best impression possible.

Inspect your wardrobe on a regular basis and ask these questions for each piece.

  • Is the garment stain-free?
  • Is it free of odors?
  • Are all the buttons and seams intact?
  • Is it clean?
  • Is it wrinkle-free?
  • Does it fit properly?

Don't fall into the trap of thinking, "It's okay to wear one more time." That one more time may mean the difference between minor wear and permanent damage. For example, while perspiration odor can be diminished when clothes are aired out, the salt in your perspiration can actually break down the fibers in your clothes, weakening them to the point of breaking or tearing.

And just because you don't see the stain you "spot cleaned" yesterday does not mean it is not there. The more time a stain has to set deep in clothing fibers, the more likely it will be to reappear and the harder it will be to remove.

As author of "How to Gain the Professional Edge," Susan Morem, wrote, "Your clothing is the first thing others notice about you. Make sure your clothes are clean, pressed, mended and fit well."

At Tide Cleaners, we know the importance of a carefully curated wardrobe. That's why we work hard to help you enjoy it for many years to come.