Khaki pants for men are a wardrobe staple for many men. The versatile neutral color can be dressed up or down for various occasions. With the right care, you can help your khakis last for many seasons. Follow these tips to extend the life of your favorite pair of khakis.
Wash Khakis Sparingly
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with khakis is overwashing them. The frequent cycle of washing and drying wears down the fibers prematurely. For casual cotton khakis, only launder them every 3 to 4 wears. If you wore them just for a few hours indoors, you may be able to stretch it to 5 to 6 light wears. Turning them inside out before washing will also help minimize fading.
Wash in Cold Water
Always wash khakis in cold water to avoid shrinkage or colors running. Warm and hot water can damage the dyes and cause the pants to shrink up. Stick to cold water even if the care tag says “warm.” Detergent alone will get rid of most typical stains and odors in cold water.
Hang Dry
The dryer is harsh on khakis and should be avoided. The heat can damage the cotton fibers, cause shrinkage, and fade colors. Instead, hang khakis up to air dry after washing. Make sure they are fully dry before wearing or storing to prevent mildew buildup. Iron while still slightly damp for sharper, crisper creases.
Spot Clean Stains
For food, dirt, or other stains, tackle them quickly with spot cleaning. Dab a bit of mild detergent on the stain with a clean cloth. Rinse with cold water and pat dry with a towel. Avoid vigorously rubbing the stain, which can further set it into the fabric. For tough oil stains, try blotting with baking soda before spot cleaning.
Invest in a Fabric Shaver
Pilling is a common issue with cotton pants like khakis after frequent wear and washing. A fabric shaver quickly removes those unsightly fuzz balls and pills. It shaves them off the surface of the fabric, restoring a smooth finish. Use occasionally to keep your khakis looking crisp.
Sew Up Any Holes
Don’t toss out khakis just because they develop a small hole! Sew up any holes, rips, or loose seams promptly. Use a needle and thread that matches the color of the pants. A simple running stitch will usually do the trick for holes. For loose seams, you may need to redo the seam. Catching damage early makes the repairs less obvious.
Store Properly
How you store khakis between wears impacts their longevity. Fold them neatly and avoid overstuffing or jamming your dresser drawers. The excess creasing and wrinkling can weaken fibers. Use cedar blocks or sachets in your drawers to keep moths away from wool blends. You can also lightly steam khakis before storing to keep them crisp.
Keep an Eye on Fit
Make sure to keep an eye on the fit of your favorite khakis over time. Pants that are too tight put excess strain on the seams and fibers. The thighs may become shiny and worn. If khakis are too loose, excess fabric also causes faster wear. Have your khakis tailored for a perfect fit. Buy a new pair once the leg opening exceeds 19 inches.
Protect From Spills When Wearing
When wearing your khakis, be cautious to avoid spills and stains. At restaurants, drape a napkin over your lap. If cooking or doing messy tasks, consider wearing an apron. Apply a stain protector like Scotchgard to help repel liquid spills and make stains easier to remove promptly. With some extra care while wearing, you can avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
By laundering minimally, making repairs, storing properly, and protecting your khakis while wearing them, you can add years to their life. Shop for quality khakis made of durable fabrics like twill. With the right care, you can keep your favorite khakis looking crisp for many seasons to come.
