As the weather cools, fall is the perfect time to give our favorite sweaters, jackets, coats and blankets a little extra care before they’re back in rotation. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of our textiles, but also helps reduce waste and our environmental impact.

When we pull out our cozy garments from storage, it’s common to find that some didn’t fare as well as we’d hoped. Beyond preserving our favorite pieces, taking time to properly care for them is an eco-friendly act with a meaningful ripple effect. Each item we maintain instead of replacing reduces textile waste, saves resources and lowers our household carbon footprint.

Neglected or discarded garments often end up in landfills, where decomposing fibers release harmful greenhouse gases. By extending the lifespan of our clothing and home textiles, we help combat this waste and reduce the demand for new textiles—an industry that consumes vast amounts of water, energy and petroleum-based materials. Even simple actions such as spot cleaning, air-drying and mending can significantly lower energy use, chemical runoff and environmental strain.

To transition our wardrobes responsibly this season:

• Air out stored items to prevent mildew and refresh fibers.

• Inspect woolens for holes or pests, and consider simple repair techniques like needle felting.

• De-pill knits appropriately: comb wool and cashmere, shave cotton and acrylic.

• Brush coats and heavier fabrics to remove dust and restore texture.

Thoughtful garment care keeps textiles fresh, functional and beautiful for many years to come. It’s also a simple, powerful way to live more sustainably—honoring the resources behind each piece and voting for a more mindful, less wasteful world with every stitch and every season.

Reed McLaren is the owner of Tapestry Home Interiors and The Sustainable Garment. To learn more or to book a consultation, visit TapestryHomeInteriors.com or TheSustainableGarment.com.