How to Care for Mens Suits: A Step-by-Step Guide for Men

Oct 30, 2024

How to Care for Mens Suits: A Step-by-Step Guide for Men

How to Care for Mens Suits: A Step-by-Step Guide for Men

Every man knows the power of a well-fitted suit. It exudes confidence, sophistication, and style. But owning a suit is just the first step. To truly make an impression, it's essential to know how to care for your suits. From cleaning to storage, proper suit maintenance is crucial for preserving its quality and longevity. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the essential tips and tricks to keep your mens suits looking sharp and polished. These tips will work for any type of suit whether it's a double breasted, a 3 piece or a 2 piece. Whether you're a seasoned suit-wearer or new to the world of formal attire, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to care for your mens suits like a pro. So, whether you have a special occasion coming up or simply want to elevate your everyday style, read on to discover the secrets to maintaining your suits in pristine condition.

The Importance of Caring for Men's Suits

Caring for your mens suits is not just about aesthetics; it's about preserving their integrity and ensuring they last for years to come. Suits are an investment, and proper care is essential to protect that investment.

When you invest in a high-quality suit, you want it to maintain its shape, color, and overall appearance. Proper suit care will prevent fabric damage, discoloration, and loss of shape, ensuring that your suit always looks its best. Additionally, taking care of your suit will save you money in the long run, as you won't need to replace it as frequently.

Understanding Suit Fabrics and Their Care Requirements

Before diving into the specifics of suit care, it's crucial to understand the different types of suit fabrics and their unique care requirements. The most common suit fabrics include wool, cotton, linen, and synthetic blends.

Wool suits are highly durable, breathable, and resistant to wrinkles. They require regular maintenance, including occasional dry cleaning, to keep them looking their best. Cotton suits are lightweight and comfortable but are more prone to wrinkling. Linen suits are perfect for warm weather but require special care to avoid excessive wrinkling. Synthetic blends offer a more budget-friendly option but may require more frequent cleaning.

Knowing the fabric of your suit will help you determine the best care regimen to maintain its quality and appearance.

Step 1: Proper Storage for Men's Suits

Proper storage is the foundation of suit care. The way you store your suits can significantly impact their condition. Follow these steps to ensure your suits are stored correctly:

1. Invest in a good quality suit hanger: Avoid wire or plastic hangers, as they can distort the shape of your suit. Instead, opt for wooden hangers that provide proper support and help maintain the suit's structure. You can usually buy wooden hangers in bulk either at a big box department store or Amazon for a very reasonable price. You just don't want your suits to be hanging on flimsy hangers. The shoulders require proper support so it looks good when you put on the jacket.

2. Use suit bags or garment covers: Protect your suits from dust, moisture, and pests by storing them in breathable suit bags or garment covers. These bags will also help prevent wrinkles and keep your suits looking fresh. I like to throw in a few cedar discs or pellets which not only make your suits smell nice but protect them by keeping moths away.

3. Allow suits to breathe: Avoid overcrowding your closet, as this can cause creases and wrinkles. Leave enough space between your suits to allow air circulation, which will prevent musty odors and help maintain the fabric's integrity. It is good to rotate them in your closet every now and then for this purpose.

Remember, proper storage is the first step in ensuring your suits stay in top condition.

Step 2: Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your suits looking and smelling fresh. Follow these tips to maintain your suits' cleanliness:

1. Spot cleaning: Deal with stains or spills promptly by spot cleaning the affected area. Use a mild detergent or stain remover specifically designed for the fabric of your suit. Gently blot the stain and avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain or damage the fabric. You can cause pulling in the fabric if you are gently taking care of the stain. I even recommend using rubbing alcohol and an old toothbrush and gently and I mean gently scrubbing the stain. Alcohol won't stain the fabric like water might.

2. Brushing and airing out: After each wear, use a clothes brush to remove any surface dirt or debris. Hang your suit in a well-ventilated area to allow it to air out before returning it to your closet. Take your suit brush and start with the top of the shoulders and work your way down.

3. Dry cleaning: While regular dry cleaning is not recommended, occasional professional cleaning is necessary to remove deep-seated dirt and stains. You don't need to dry clean after every single use. I recommend dry cleaning your suit after every 4 or 5 times of use. Follow the care instructions on the suit's label or consult a professional cleaner for guidance. If your suit does have a stain or issue, make sure you tell the dry cleaner if your suit needs any extra attention.

By incorporating regular cleaning and maintenance into your suit care routine, you can ensure your suits always look their best.

Step 3: Dealing with Wrinkles and Creases

Wrinkles and creases are inevitable, but they don't have to ruin the appearance of your suit. Here's how to deal with them effectively:

1. Steam your suit: Hang your suit in the bathroom while taking a hot shower to let the steam naturally loosen the wrinkles. Alternatively, use a handheld steamer or a garment steamer to remove wrinkles from the fabric. If have several suits, I really recommend investing in a decent garment steamer. It is so easy to use. You just keep the jacket on the hanger and pull taught the sleeves one at and time and glide the steamer down it. Slow and steady wins the race. You  want to let the steam do the work. 

Then you do the front of the jacket the same way. I like to hold the bottom of the jacket with one hand the glide the steamer with the other. Then you do the back the same way. It is so easy to do, you won't know how you lived without one. Make sure you only use distilled water for your steamer. Tap water has minerals in it which will both come out of the steam onto your garment and clog up the heating element in the steamer shortening its life span.

2. Ironing: If steaming doesn't fully remove the wrinkles, iron your suit using the appropriate heat setting for the fabric. Always use a pressing cloth to protect the fabric from direct heat. You do not want to press an iron directly into any suit. It is easier to scorch the fabric which you won't be able to remove once it is done. We have all seen movies where someone burns their suit jacket leaving an impossible-to-ignore iron mark on the back. In my experience, Ironing should be used only for the pants and pressing the lapels and pockets on the jacket in addition to a steamer. Once again, using a pressing cloth or even an unused bandana will work.

3. Hanging techniques: As soon as you are done wearing it, Hang it up. I am guilty of coming home and being tired and just draping it on a chair. Don't. You need to hang it up so it doesn't further wrinkle and gravity helps the small wrinkle come out. That means you will have to do less steaming for the next time you wear your suit.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove wrinkles and creases, ensuring your suits always look polished and professional.

Step 4: Handling Stains on Men's Suits

Stains are an inevitable part of life, but they don't have to be permanent. Here's how to handle different types of stains on your suits:

1. Food and drink stains: Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth or napkin to absorb excess liquid. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric. Treat the stain with a mild detergent or stain remover, following the product's instructions. You can also try using an old clean toothbrush with rubbing alcohol and gently go over the stain.

2. Oil-based stains: Sprinkle talcum powder or cornstarch on the stain to absorb the oil. Let it sit for a few minutes, then brush off the powder. Treat the remaining stain with a mild detergent or seek professional cleaning if needed. If your suit does need dry cleaning, I recommend bringing it in as soon as possible. The longer the stain sits, is the harder it will be to get out if the stain can be removed at all.

3. Ink stains: Blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any excess ink. Apply rubbing alcohol or a specialized ink stain remover to the stain, then gently blot until the ink is lifted. You want to blot the stain because this will keep the ink stain from spreading. If you tried to scrub the stain, it could make the stain bigger. Rinse the area with water and allow it to air dry.

Remember to always test any stain removal method on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the entire stain.

Step 5: Professional Suit Cleaning and Alterations

While regular maintenance can keep your suits in good condition, there are times when professional cleaning and alterations are necessary. Here's when you should consider seeking professional help:

1. Deep cleaning: Even with regular maintenance, your suits may accumulate dirt and odors over time. Periodic professional cleaning will ensure a thorough and deep clean, keeping your suits fresh and vibrant. Once again you usually need to clean a suit after you have worn it four or five times.

2. Alterations and repairs: If your suit no longer fits correctly or has minor damages, it's best to consult a professional tailor or seamstress. They can make necessary alterations, such as hemming trousers or adjusting the jacket's fit, to ensure your suit looks and feels perfect on you.

Professional suit cleaning and alterations will ensure that your suits are always in top-notch condition, fitting you perfectly and looking your best.

Tips for Prolonging the Lifespan of Men's Suits

In addition to the steps outlined above, here are some additional tips to help prolong the lifespan of your mens suits:

1. Rotate your suits: Avoid wearing the same suit multiple days in a row. Allow each suit at least one day of rest between wears to let it air out and regain its shape. Another huge tip is never to mix and match the jacket and pants to get new outfits out of it. What happens is you will prematurely wear the jacket and pants differently and after a time, they will no longer match from being cleaned at different times. Don't use the suit pants by themselves either for the same reason.

2. Avoid excessive dry cleaning: Overdoing dry cleaning can strip the fabric of its natural oils and cause it to lose its luster. Only dry clean when necessary and opt for spot cleaning or steaming when possible.

3. Store suits in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing your suits in humid environments or direct sunlight, as these can damage the fabric. Choose a cool, dry area in your closet, or invest in a dehumidifier if needed.

By incorporating these tips into your suit care routine, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your suits.

Recommended Suit Care Products and Tools

To make suit care easier and more effective, consider investing in the following suit care products and tools:

1. Clothes brush: A good quality clothes brush will help you remove surface dirt and debris, keeping your suits looking clean and fresh.

2. Steamers: Handheld steamers or garment steamers are excellent tools for quickly removing wrinkles and refreshing your suits between wearings. The best ones to use are the ones that have the hose and separate water tank.

3. Suit bags or garment covers: Breathable suit bags or garment covers will protect your suits from dust, moisture, and pests, ensuring they stay in pristine condition.

4. Stain removers: Invest in mild detergents or specialized stain removers designed for the specific fabric of your suit. These products will help you effectively tackle stains without causing damage.

By having these suit care products and tools on hand, you can simplify the process of caring for your suits and achieve optimal results.

Final Thoughts.

Caring for your mens suits is a crucial part of maintaining their quality, appearance, and longevity. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can ensure that your suits always look sharp, polished, and ready to impress.

Remember the importance of proper storage, regular cleaning and maintenance, and handling stains and wrinkles effectively. Seek professional help when necessary and incorporate additional tips into your suit care routine to prolong the lifespan of your suits.

With the right knowledge, skills, and suit care products, you can confidently care for your mens suits like a pro, ensuring they remain a symbol of confidence, sophistication, and style for years to come.