February 2009 Issue
In this months Issue:
Where Did That Button Go?
Pressed4Time Money Saving Tip
Pressed4Time Home Laundry Tip
Sports Uniforms
Here's the good news; if a button is loose or falls off, here at Pressed4Time we're happy to fix it for you. So if you are sewing phobic or just never learned, there is help! Sewing on buttons, however, is probably a skill that everyone should -- and can -- learn. It's actually fairly simple and very useful. All you need is some thread, a needle, scissors and a straight pin.
Still worried? One way to ensure that you won't have to sew on buttons is a quick and easy fix to do right after you buy a garment with buttons. Just dab on a tiny bit of superglue right on the middle of each button, over the thread. Be careful not to drip any of the glue onto the fabric, and you only need a drop.
If you never learned how to sew, or want to re-teach yourself this skill, we recommend the Internet! There are many sites with on-line videos that will demonstrate this skill.
Know someone who is sewing-challenged? Here's a sweetheart of a gift that will make them laugh... be much appreciated!
1 spool of white thread, 1 spool of black thread, 1 packet of all-purpose needles, we suggest self threading, 1 card with four-hole white buttons, 1 package of white Velcro strips, 1 pair of scissors and 1 tube of superglue.
Pressed4Time Money Saving Tip
How many times have you bought a garment, only to quickly discover split seams, fraying cuffs, color bleeding or worse? The fact is, buying quality clothes isn't as easy as it looks. Here are the ABC's to careful shopping that will help you save time and money.
A. ALWAYS be careful before making a purchase. We bet your mother told you about judging people: looks aren't everything, it's what's underneath that counts. The same holds true for buying clothes. High-quality fabrics that are dyed properly and sewn together correctly will last longer than lower-quality counterparts. This may seem obvious, but many shoppers don't take into consideration when they see a garment and it's love at first sight. Spending a lot of money on fad clothing styles can be a waste: instead, consider purchasing less expensive accessories, and stick to classic clothing that you can keep in your wardrobe for a while.
Don't be lured by special sales and discounts: Remember, it's not a bargain if you don't get your money's worth.
It's important to consider the retailer's reputation. If an article of clothing you purchased is defective or poor quality, will the retailer stand behind the product? Does the return policy allow you to get your money back or select a different garment if you have problems? Good customer service is vital.
B. BE sure to read the garment's care label carefully before purchasing. If you don't understand it, ask a salesperson for assistance.
The Federal Trade Commission requires that all articles of clothing (except for household items, suede and leather, shoes, gloves and hats) MUST list at least one safe method of care for a garment.
There is a loophole, however; The FTC says a garment manufacturer only has to list warnings if any part of the garment could be damaged using the one safe method. So let's say you buy two items with trim: one with a large, single medallion, the other with sequins and buttons. Take a look at the labels; If it says, Dry clean exclusive of trim think twice. In the case of the medallion, our staff at the Pressed4Time dry cleaning plant can simply remove it before cleaning, then replace it afterward. But in the case of those sequins either it will be very expensive to clean or simply impossible. So read those labels before you falling love with an item!
C. CONTACT us and rely on our expertise. After you've invested money in a quality clothing item from a reputable clothing retailer keep your wardrobe looking its best. All the time and effort you spent picking out nice clothes will be wasted if you use a dry cleaner who is not well trained in all areas of fabric care. Using our experience and our knowledge means you'll get enjoyment from your clothes!
Pressed4Time Home Laundry Tip
During the winter months, many people's feet spend a lot of time encased in damp boots or shoes. That can lead to an offensive problem: smelly socks and shoes.
If you're experiencing the problem of smelly socks, there is an easy and effective solution. First, wash your socks, but don't dry them. Mix 1/4 up baking soda with one gallon of warm water and then soak the washed socks for about half an hour. Place the socks in the washing machine and run the rinse cycle of the washer. Dry as you normally do and voila! Your socks will be welcome anywhere.
As for smelly shoes, the problem is often dampness due to sweat or weather. The first item on the agenda is to ensure they are dry. You can place them outside in the sun (weather permitting) or near a heat source inside (not too close and don't over dry or they will shrink)! If the insoles are damp, you should take them out and dry them, or even consider replacing them with bacteria-fighting insoles you can purchase at discount stores or drugstores.
We've heard some great ideas for dealing with shoe odor:
*Place shoes in a plastic bag and put them in the freezer overnight. If there is still an odor, sprinkle some baking soda inside, let sit, and then shake out before wearing. Baking soda can be applied between wearings. Speaking of wearings, you should alternate shoes from day to day, to give them a chance to air out.
*Put fabric softener sheets in your shoes overnight.
*Get some rubbing alcohol and put it in a sprayer. Spray the inside of the shoes lightly and let it dry.
*Purchase cat litter and put it in an old stocking or thin sock. Tie up the stocking, and place the cat litter into the shoe. When the shoes are not being worn, use the cat litter stocking.
Sports Uniforms
Whether your child plays fall, winter or spring sports in school, they probably have some kind of uniform that they wear. Someone has to clean those uniforms (after all, they're bound to get lots of wear and plenty of dirt on them), and if that person is you, keep reading.
Sports uniforms are usually made of synthetic fibers like nylon, polyester, spandex or some kind of blend. Here are some tips for keeping those uniforms looking great!
1. The most common problem is dye bleeding when the item is cleaned. Follow the care instructions carefully; most uniforms require a cold water wash. If you try washing it in warm water, it is likely to bleed. Test for colorfastness before washing with other items; pre-treat any grass, mud or blood stains.
2. Most uniforms can be laundered and do not need to be dry cleaned.
3. Don't dry a uniform at a high temperature, since this can result in shrinkage or permanent wrinkles. If you do dry a uniform, take it out of the dryer and hang it up. If the uniform is laminated, it should be air-dried.
4. Do not allow uniforms to be wet or soak too long.
5. Don't forget to remove belts, pads, etc. before washing.
Now get out there and have some fun!