Which Jackets Don’t Belong on the Hanger?

Not all clothes are created equal when it comes to storage. Some jackets cry out for a hanger instead of the folding routine we might give our tees and sweaters. Ever pulled out your favorite jacket only to find it wrinkled and misshapen? Ugh, the struggle is real.

Let’s talk about jackets that need hanging. Think puffer jackets, with all their cozy fluff—folding can flatten their puff and make them lose that comfy charm. Then there’s the structured blazers that, with their sharp lines, absolutely hate being squished in a pile. They demand a hanger to keep those shoulders sharp.

And here’s a fun tip: Hanging isn’t just about keeping wrinkles at bay. It’s about letting fabrics breathe and retain their form. Your jackets deserve that, right?

• Why Folding Can Harm Certain Jackets
• The Jackets That Demand Hanging
• Tips for Storing Jackets Correctly
• How to Maintain Jacket Longevity

Why Folding Can Harm Certain Jackets

When it comes to storing your beloved jackets, not all methods are equal. Folding might be second nature for t-shirts, but for many jackets, it's a one-way ticket to a wrinkled disaster. Ever tried folding a down jacket? You end up squishing all that nice, insulating fluff, leaving it looking sad and lifeless. Nobody wants that!

Let’s break it down. Puffer jackets, for instance, rely on their air-filled pockets to keep you warm. When folded, you compress these pockets, and over time, this compromises their warmth. Then you have your classically tailored blazers - these guys have structure thanks to padding and lining. Fold them and those sharp lines and molds take a hit.

According to Sarah Norton, a textile expert, "Jackets are investment pieces. Proper care, like hanging, can easily extend their life and preserve their shape."

Let’s not forget about clothing care from a material standpoint. Delicate fabrics like suede and leather are prone to creasing and cracking if bent unnaturally. If your jacket looks like it’s been through the wringer, it’s likely been folded up in the back of the closet for too long.

Common Problems from Folding Jackets

• Creases and Wrinkles: Folding creates sharp creases that may not come out easily, especially in materials like leather or wool.
• Loss of Shape: Jackets with shoulder pads or specific tailoring can lose their intended shape when consistently folded.
• Damage to Insulation: For insulated jackets, folding compresses the material, reducing its effectiveness.

Investing in good hangers is an easy solution and a smart move for jacket longevity. Giving them the space and respect they deserve will keep them looking sharper and feeling comfier in the long run.

The Jackets That Demand Hanging

Some jackets just aren't meant to be folded. These include those with a specific structure or material that need to maintain their form. Folding them can lead to wrinkles and misshaping, which isn’t ideal if you want your clothes to look good.

Puffer Jackets

Puffer jackets are all about that soft, puffy insulation. Folding them can lead to flattened fibers, which messes with their insulating properties. Plus, compressed puffers just don’t look as great. So, hang them up and let them breathe a little.

Blazers

Blazers are a wardrobe staple, but they can get wonky fast if they’re not stored right. They have pads and seams that help them maintain their defining silhouettes. Folding them means crumpling those pads and seam lines, ruining that sharp look. Keep them on a broad-shouldered hanger to preserve that neat, tailored appearance.

Leather and Suede Jackets

Absolutely gorgeous but oh-so-delicate, leather and suede jackets need hanging to maintain their shape and smooth textures. Folding can create permanent creases and lines that you definitely don't want. And let’s be honest, nobody wants their leather looking like it’s been through the wringer.

Trench Coats

The classic trench demands some respect in storage. It's all too easy for this stylish piece to lose its shape if just shoved in a drawer. Hanging keeps its structure—belt tied and all. It's a simple way to keep looking chic, rain or shine.

Got multiple jackets? Ensure they're not crammed together. Air space between hangers is vital for keeping the garments looking fresh. Investing in some high-quality, padded hangers can be a game-changer for maintaining jacket shape too!

Tips for Storing Jackets Correctly

So, jacket storage—easy, right? But doing it wrong can mean wrinkling and damage. Nobody wants a deflated puffer jacket or a misshapen blazer.

Choose the Right Hanger

The quest for the perfect hanger, who knew? Seriously though, hangers can make or break your jacket's shape. Go for broad hangers for heavier jackets to keep those shoulders in top form. Plus, non-slip hangers? Yes, please. They keep everything nice and steady.

Avoid the Crush

Space is tight, but cramming jackets together is a big no-no. That’s when jackets get crushed and lose their flair. Keeping a finger-width distance between hangers makes all the difference, letting your jackets breathe and hang free.

Mind the Environment

Humidity? It’s a jacket's enemy. Excess moisture can cause mold—not cool. A damp wardrobe isn’t great for any clothes, let alone your prized jackets. Throw in a moisture absorber for safe measure.

Seasonal Switch

When seasons change, so should your jacket storage methods. A good tip? Store out-of-season jackets with breathable garment bags. Keep them clean, dry, and out of direct sunlight to preserve their longevity.

With a few tweaks, you can keep your jackets looking fab all year round. Whether it's about picking the right hanger or battling humidity, these tips have your back—or, should we say, your jacket's back!

How to Maintain Jacket Longevity

Keeping jackets in tip-top shape for years isn’t as tough as you might think. A little care goes a long way. First off, always hang up your jackets as soon as you’re done wearing them. Lazy habits of leaving them on a chair can lead to unwanted wrinkles or worse—permanent damage.

Choose the Right Hangers

Using the right hanger can make all the difference. Wooden or padded hangers maintain the shape of the clothing without stretching it out. Say goodbye to wire hangers for your beloved jackets—they're rough and unforgiving.

Clean with Care

Check those labels before you head to the washing machine! Some jackets, especially the delicate or structured types, demand dry cleaning. When you do need to wash at home, use cold water and a gentle cycle to keep colors from fading and fabrics from wearing out.

Storing Off-Season

During warmer months, make sure your jackets are clean before storing them. Dirt and oils can attract critters or create stains over time. Consider garment bags if you’re tucking them away in a closet; they’ll protect from dust and moths.

Fix It Quickly

Don't ignore that tiny tear or missing button. Small damages often grow if not addressed quickly. Get them fixed while they’re easy repairs instead of waiting until the damage is worse and harder to fix.

By incorporating these simple steps into your routine, your jackets will look fresher and last longer, saving you time and money in the long run.