How To Maintain Suits For Men
A well-maintained suit speaks volumes about your attention to detail and professionalism, with studies showing that 55% of first impressions are based on appearance alone, significantly influencing how others perceive your competence and credibility.
Learning how to maintain men’s suits ensures a polished appearance and extends their lifespan, making them a worthwhile investment for any professional.
As Toronto’s experts in designer menswear, we'll explore various strategies to keep your corporate suits looking impeccable and lasting longer.
The Importance of Corporate Suit Maintenance
First impressions often rely heavily on appearance.
Corporate suits are more than just clothing; they're a statement of professionalism and attention to detail.
A well-maintained suit can boost confidence and create a positive impression in the workplace.
However, the daily wear and tear of office life can take its toll on even the finest suits.
By implementing proper care techniques, you can preserve the quality and appearance of your corporate suits, ensuring they continue to serve you well throughout your career.
Daily Care Routines
Airing Out Your Suit
One of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain corporate suits is by airing them out regularly.
After a long day at the office, your suit has likely absorbed various environmental factors, including dust, sweat, and odors.
To combat this:
Hang your suit on a high-quality, wide-shouldered hanger or a butler stand
Place it in a well-ventilated area overnight, away from direct sunlight
Allow the natural fibers to breathe and regain their shape
This practice helps prevent odor buildup and maintains the suit's structure, contributing to its longevity.
Brushing and Spot Cleaning
Proper suit care extends its lifespan and value.
Regularly brushing men’s suits can remove surface dirt and prevent it from settling into the fabric.
Use a soft-bristled clothes brush and gently brush in a downward motion.
For spot cleaning:
Address stains immediately by dabbing (not rubbing) with a damp cloth
For more stubborn stains, consult a professional dry cleaner
Proper Storage
Air out your suit after each wear and hang your suit on a wide-shouldered hanger.
When not in use, store your corporate suits properly to maintain their shape and prevent wrinkles:
Use wide, wooden hangers that support the shoulders
Button the jacket and hang the trousers from the bottom hem
Allow space between suits in your closet for air circulation
Rotation and Rest
To maximize the lifespan of your corporate suits, implement a rotation system:
Avoid wearing the same suit two days in a row
Aim to wear each suit no more than twice a week
Allow at least 24 hours of rest between wears
This practice gives the fabric time to recover and regain its shape, preventing premature wear and tear.
Professional Cleaning and Maintenance
Dry Cleaning
While regular care can extend the time between cleanings, professional dry cleaning is essential for maintaining corporate suits:
Dry clean only when absolutely necessary, such as for spills or tough, set-in stains.
Choose a reputable dry cleaner experienced in handling fine suits
Inform the cleaner of any specific stains or areas of concern
Request your suit to be laundered instead of dry-cleaned
Remember that excessive dry cleaning can be harmful to the fabric, so balance is key.
Pressing and Steaming
To keep your corporate suits looking crisp:
Use a steamer for light touch-ups between dry cleanings
For a more polished look, have your suits professionally pressed
Avoid using a home iron directly on suit fabric to prevent damage
Tailoring and Repairs
Regular wear can lead to loose buttons, frayed cuffs, or other minor issues.
Address these promptly:
Keep a small sewing kit for quick fixes like reattaching buttons
Have a trusted tailor for more complex repairs or alterations
Consider adding reinforcements to high-stress areas like pockets and elbows
Fabric-Specific Care
Different suit materials require specific care approaches:
Wool Suits
Brush regularly to remove surface dirt
Use cedar hangers or cedar blocks in storage to repel moths
Allow plenty of time to air out between wears
Cotton Suits
More prone to wrinkling, so hang properly after each wear
Can be steamed more frequently than wool suits
They may require more frequent cleaning due to their tendency to absorb sweat
Linen Suits
Extremely prone to wrinkling, embrace the natural texture
Air out thoroughly after each wear to prevent odors
It may require more frequent pressing to maintain a crisp appearance
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
To further extend the life of your corporate suits:
Pocket Management
Avoid overloading suit pockets with heavy or sharp objects. This can distort the shape of the jacket and cause unnecessary wear.
Proper Fit
Ensure your suits fit correctly. Ill-fitting suits can lead to stress on seams and fabric, causing premature wear or even tearing. Working with a personal stylist is a great way to get a second opinion and ensure a proper fit. At Carpe Diem Men, we gladly offer complimentary alterations for in-store purchases.
Gentle Handling
Be mindful of how you treat your suit throughout the day:
Remove your jacket when sitting for extended periods
Take care when entering and exiting vehicles to avoid snagging or tearing
Avoid keeping your hands in your pockets for long periods, which can stretch the fabric
Investing in Quality
While proper maintenance can extend the life of any suit, investing in high-quality corporate suits from the outset can make a significant difference:
Choose suits made from durable, natural fibers like wool
Look for well-constructed suits with quality stitching and lining
Consider purchasing suits with two pairs of trousers, as pants typically wear out faster than jackets
At Carpe Diem Men we have a carefully curated selection of men's suits that are crafted to ensure the ins and outs of daily wear.
Seasonal Care and Storage
As seasons change, so should your approach to suit care:
Summer Care
Opt for lighter fabrics and colors
Be vigilant about sweat stains and odors
Consider using garment bags for storage to protect against dust and insects
Winter Care
Brush suits regularly to remove salt and other winter debris
Allow wet suits to dry completely before storing
Use a lint roller to remove lint and hair that may cling to heavier fabrics
The Role of Accessories
Clean and polish dress shoes regularly.
Proper care of suit accessories can also impact the overall appearance and longevity of your corporate attire:
Clean and polish dress shoes regularly
Store ties rolled or hung to prevent creasing
Launder dress shirts after each wear to prevent collar and cuff stains
Conclusion
Elevating your suit's longevity and appearance is a cumulative effort, from the daily ritual of gentle brushing to the periodic professional touch at the dry cleaners, each action contributes significantly to maintaining its quality over time.
As you apply these tips to your suit care routine, you'll find that your corporate suits not only last longer but continue to make a strong, positive impression in the workplace.
With proper care, your suits will remain faithful companions throughout your career journey, helping you dress for the success you aim to achieve.
Menswear On The Danforth
Ready to elevate your corporate image with a high-quality suit that speaks volumes? Seize the day and visit Carpe Diem Men, nestled in the vibrant heart of Toronto's Danforth.
We offer personalized styling to ensure you find the perfect fit for your unique style and professional needs. With our in-house alterations service, we guarantee a tailored look that's second to none.
Our carefully curated collection of premium menswear brands, including BOSS, Eton, and Pal Zileri, provides you with an unparalleled selection of timeless and modern pieces.
