
A great uniform does more than represent your brand; it reflects the professionalism, consistency, and care your business puts into everything it does. But even the best-made uniforms need the right attention to stay looking sharp, day after day.
We believe that proper uniform care isn't complicated. With a few simple habits, you can keep your workwear looking fresh, professional, and long-lasting while saving money on replacements in the long run.
Here are our 5 easy steps to uniform care.
1. Always Check the Care Label First
Before washing any uniform, take a moment to check the care label. Different fabrics, cotton, polyester blends, and performance wear often require different washing temperatures, cycles, and drying methods. Following these guidelines helps prevent shrinking, fading, and fabric damage, ensuring your uniform keeps its shape and colour wash after wash.
2. Wash in Cooler Temperatures
While it may be tempting to wash uniforms on a hot cycle for a deeper clean, cooler washes (usually 30°C–40°C) are often better for preserving fabric integrity and colour. Hot water can break down fibres faster and cause garments to fade or lose shape over time. A cooler wash, paired with a good quality detergent, is usually more than enough to keep uniforms clean and fresh.
3. Avoid Overloading the Washing Machine
It's easy to want to wash multiple workwear at once to save time, but overloading the machine can prevent proper cleaning and cause unnecessary creasing or fabric strain. Give your uniforms enough space to move freely in the wash. This helps detergent distribute evenly and keeps garments looking their best.
4. Air Dry Where Possible
Tumble dryers can be convenient, but excessive heat is one of the biggest causes of uniform wear and tear. Where possible, air drying is the gentler option helping to maintain fabric strength, colour, and shape. If you do need to use a dryer, opt for a low-heat setting to minimise damage.
5. Store Uniforms Properly
How uniforms are stored between wears matters more than most people realise. Hanging uniforms properly rather than folding or leaving them crumpled helps prevent creasing and maintains a sharp, professional appearance. A well-ventilated space also helps avoid moisture build-up, keeping garments fresh for longer.
Why Uniform Care Matters
Looking after your uniforms isn't just about appearances, it's about protecting your investment and ensuring your team always presents the best possible image of your business. Simple, consistent care can significantly extend the life of your workwear, saving costs and reducing waste over time.
We design uniforms to be durable and easy to maintain but a little extra care goes a long way in keeping them looking as good as new.
Looking for high-quality, long-lasting uniforms for your team? Explore our range at John and Smith London, and let us help you find workwear that performs as well as it looks.