February 2008 Issue
In this months Issue:
Hats Off
Making Clothes Last Longer
Liquid vs. Powder
Home Laundry Tip
At this time of year, more people are wearing hats to stay warm. That's a wise idea, since body heat escapes from a person's head and keeping your head warm will actually keep your body warmer! (Babies especially lose heat rapidly through their heads so be sure that small children wear hats in inclement or cold weather!)
In olden days, hats were worn as a protection from the elements and from injury; later, they were symbols of authority or rank. Hats evolved into fashion accessories; at one point they were quite elaborate, featuring whole stuffed birds or feathers. Fabrics like silk, leather and velvet were popular. For many generations, it was considered proper etiquette for both men and women to wear hats, no matter what your status.
But as times changed, hats became more practical. In recent years, baseball hats have become "de rigueur" attire for younger people (often backwards, sideways, etc.) and those attending baseball games. Some workers still wear hats, cowboys love 'em, others wear hats or head coverings for religious reasons, and they're sometimes worn on special occasions, but the role of the hat has changed dramatically in today's society. Fashions and styles may come and go, but hats are here to stay.
If you wear a hat and need it cleaned, just let us know...we may be able to help.
Making Clothes Last Longer
We all have clothing that spends most of its time sitting in the back of a closet or drawer. Perhaps it's because there's a rip, tear or button missing; maybe it's no longer fashionable, maybe it simply doesn't fit or suit us any longer.
There are ways you can extend the life and usefulness of your clothes. The first, and easiest thing to do is to pull out any items that simply need some fixing...and get it done. If you aren't a capable sewer, then make a pile of items and let us at Pressed4Time help you. We're happy to make minor repairs like sewing on buttons, mending tears or cleaning stains.
If it's simply a matter of fashion, take a serious look at the item. If you love it, can it be restyled somehow? Shortening or lengthening an item, adding new buttons or a new buckle for a belt...these are all great ways to make a garment fit today's fashions. To make clothes last longer, here are two tips:
* When you get home at night, take off your "work clothes" to avoid food, pet or kid stains.
* Wash items less frequently and extend the life of the garment.
We're not saying to wear dirty clothes, just be judicious. Of course, undergarments should be washed after every wearing, but many items of clothing can be worn several times before washing! For example, if it's a sweater worn over another shirt, or a pair of pants, it does not have to be washed after just one wearing! Let your nose be your guide! Also, after you've worn an item, try hanging it up outside or near a window to give it a refreshed, clean smell.
Liquid vs. Powder
You say "po-tay-to" I say "po-tah-to"... The world, it seems, is divided on the topic of liquid or powder detergents for washing machines. To weigh the pros and cons, here's some information you might find helpful.
Powdered Detergent
It's usually cheaper and it's easy to figure out by how much: Divide the cost of the package by the number of loads it will do, which is listed right on the box. Many people feel that powdered detergent works better on mud or ground-in dirt. Powders can be hard to cart around and may not dissolve well. (It's easy to carry if you're going to the Laundromat-just put individual "loads" into plastic bags and empty that into the machine.
Liquid Detergent
Slightly more expensive than most powders, but easy to store and use. Since they're pre-dissolved, no problems with powder residue. Liquid detergents are also easier to use for pre-treating stains. Many people feel that liquids are better on oily dirt or grease and food stains.
So the answer is: personal preference. Many people believe that powders work better overall, but others feel that liquids are more convenient. No matter what you choose, be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended amount of detergent!
Home Laundry Tip
Look, we'll be honest: boots get dirty, whether you're just wearing them to work or taking a hike. Most boots will last a long time, so at some point you will likely have to consider cleaning them. For many leather boots, simply brushing them or wiping them off with a damp sponge can be enough. You can use a shoe polish or conditioner, but be sure the boot is clean first since polishing can trap dirt.
Watch out for exotic leathers like snakeskin, alligator, etc., since using water on them can be disastrous. There are conditioners that can be purchased to keep these fancier types of boots clean. If your boots are really dirty, you can try some saddle soap and a brush (be sure to use the correct amount of water).
Many people own the popular "Ugg-type" sheepskin boots...the key is to never directly apply soap or any other kind of cleaner directly on these types of boots (it's also a good idea not to go trekking in mud or deep puddles!) There are special Ugg cleaners, or you can try this: To clean them, moisten the outside of the boot with cold water (don't submerge or get them soaking wet). Using a cleaner that's been approved for leather, dilute with an equal amount of cold water. Apply the solution to a wet sponge and clean the outer surface. Rinse with a clean sponge dipped in cold water. Stuff the boots with paper towels or newspaper so they'll hold their shape. Dry them away from direct sunlight or heat, since that will cause them to shrink (never use a hair dryer!). Once they're dry, brush them with a suede brush to restore the nap (brush in one direction). To soften and deodorize the boots, mix together two teaspoons of baking soda and two teaspoons of corn flour. Shake the mixture into the boot and let it stand overnight; shake it out the next day.