Clothing, when made with intention, becomes more than a seasonal fling—it becomes a long-term relationship. Durability and longevity begins not just during construction, but in the home, with mindful maintenance. From the most thoughtfully made pieces to your thrift store finds—all benefit from regular care.
Did you know? Almost 20% of a garment's environmental impact happens after it’s made, in it's "use" phase, when it’s worn, washed, and maintained. Thoughtful maintenance like gentle washing, air drying, and storing it well can extend its life, reducing waste and helping you get more wear from each piece.
COTTON CARE
Cold wash by hand or on a delicate setting, hang or lay flat to dry. Use a steamer to release creases without compromising the fibres.
LINEN CARE
Cold wash by hand or on a delicate setting, hang or lay flat to dry. If needed, steam or iron on low heat while slightly damp for a crisp finish. Over time, linen softens and strengthens, becoming more comfortable with every wear.
WOOL CARE—sweaters & outerwear
Spot clean or hand wash with cold water, lay flat to dry. Do not machine wash or dry. Best stored folded rather than hung.
WOOL CARE—195 MERINO & LIGHT wool
Cold wash by hand or on a delicate setting, lay flat to dry. Because wool naturally resists odours and bacteria, it allows for multiple wears between washes.
By choosing to use cold water and wash items less often in the washing machine, you can avoid not only emissions but save water and reduce wear and tear on your clothing.
It doesn’t need to be complicated.
Simple tools help garments last longer and stay at their best:
- Soak wash—a no-rinse, plant-based detergent—cleanses without stress on seams or fibres. It can be used for machine or hand wash,
- Steamers gently refresh fabric, removing wrinkles without the harshness of ironing.
- Fabric shavers eliminate pilling, particularly on wool or cotton knitwear, restoring a smooth surface.
- For those who prefer to mend at home, sewing kits include essential tools and make hand repairs more durable and enjoyable, whether reinforcing a seam or patching a tear.
Repair and keep it in rotation
We design garments with longevity in mind, but sometimes wear and tear is inevitable—hems loosen, buttons fall off, and small fixes are needed. When that happens, we’re here to help with construction repairs to keep your pieces in rotation for years to come.
- To request a repair, email info@ecologyst.com with photos and a detailed description of the issue.
- Ensure the garment is clean (unwashed items may be drycleaned for a fee).
- Ship your clothing to us. Our team carefully restores each piece by hand, and we aim to return your repaired garment within 8-10 weeks.
With the right resources and attention, each piece in your wardrobe can stay part of your story—season after season. Make repair a habit, make care a ritual, and let your clothing reflect a life well lived.
Find more details about Repairs on our Terms & Conditions page.
For information on Mending and Repair Workshops with our team in Victoria BC check out our Eventbrite.
