Helping School Uniforms Last Longer

Saving families money and supporting sustainability

School uniforms go through a lot - busy school days, playground fun and regular washing. The good news? With a little extra care, uniforms can last longer, look great and stay comfy all year round.

Looking after uniforms helps families save money, makes them last longer, and reduces waste. It also helps organisations like Equal Threads and State Schools Relief support more students at school.

Why Uniform Care Matters

School uniforms are made to be worn often and washed regularly, but how they’re cared for makes a big difference.

Looking after your child’s uniform can help:

• Keep colours brighter and fabrics stronger
• Maintain shape and comfort
• Reduce the need for replacements during the year
• Minimise waste and support sustainability efforts

Small changes in how uniforms are washed and stored really can add up over time.

Garment Care Instructions

We all get busy with chores, but remembering to read garment care instructions can really help lengthen the life of uniforms. For example, follow these care guidelines:

• Cold, gentle machine wash – hot washes can shrink clothes, damage fibre structure and accelerate fading
• Wash with similar colours so you don’t get colour damage
• Do not bleach as this can damage fabric
• Avoid enzyme detergents – they can weaken fabrics over time, fade colours, affect logos and embroidery.
• Do not wring, soak or tumble dry as this can stretch and twist fibres.
• Dry in the shade so clothes don’t fade
• Warm iron on the reverse side as this can smooth wrinkles without stressing fibres and maintain the shape of the fabric.
• Check label to see if it needs dry cleaning – P (circled 60). If so, washing it at home could damage, shrink or lose shape of the garment. Do not put Hats in the washing machine.

These steps help protect the fabric, stitching and colour.

Helpful Washing Tips

Even after you have read the instructions on the tags, there are a few simple habits you can develop to help make uniforms last longer:

• Turn garments inside out to protect prints and colour
• Avoid high heat - it can cause shrinkage and damage
• Remove uniforms promptly from the wash and hang them up
• Iron on the reverse side where possible

Everyday Uniform Care

Once you have your washing routine down pat, you can look at other things you can be doing to help. Such as:

• Rotate uniforms during the week if you can, to ensure even wear and tear
• Store neatly folded or hung, away from dust
• Avoid over washing — uniforms don’t need washing after every wear if they’re not dirty

Our Commitment

Equal Threads is the social enterprise of State Schools Relief, supporting students experiencing disadvantage. By shopping with Equal Threads, you are helping to fund essentials for students in need.

When uniforms are well cared for, they last longer - helping families save money and reducing environmental impact. By caring for school uniforms, you’re helping your family, your community and the planet.

Disclaimer – this is general care advice, always check your garment label for specific advice for your garment.