A right royal Sunday of specials…
Most of us think we’re doing the right thing when we toss our clothes into the machine on a quick cycle with a splash of detergent. But according to Anne Simmons — a royal household cleaner with over 20 years of experience — those habits could be doing more harm than good.
“I’ve seen beautiful pieces destroyed long before their time,” says Simmons. “Most people overwash, use the wrong products, or tumble dry everything — it’s a disaster for quality fabrics.”
In an interview with Edit Suits, Anne reveals a few common habits that can drastically shorten the lifespan of your wardrobe:
- Washing too often: “If it’s not stained or smelly, it doesn’t need a full wash. Air it out or steam it.”
- Using harsh detergents: “Most commercial products are full of chemicals that strip fabrics. I recommend white vinegar — it’s gentle, natural, and keeps colours bright.”
- Ignoring garment labels: “They’re there for a reason. A quick hot wash might save time now, but it’ll cost you in the long run.”
How the royals keep clothes looking pristine
So what’s the royal secret? Simmons swears by three simple steps:
- Steam instead of wash
“Steaming not only removes odours, but it refreshes the fabric and smooths wrinkles without the damage of washing or ironing.”
- White vinegar rinse
“Just a small cup in the rinse cycle acts as a natural softener, removes soap residue, and neutralises odours. No synthetic scent needed.”
- Flat drying and proper storage
“Never wring out wool or silk. Roll it in a towel, then lay it flat to dry. Hang structured garments on padded hangers and store them with lavender or cedar to protect from moths.”
With just a few simple swaps — like using white vinegar instead of harsh detergents and steaming rather than washing — you can keep your wardrobe looking fresh for years.
