AS the back-to-school season approaches, parents across the country are facing the annual challenge of making sure their children have the right school uniform for the year ahead.
But, with the cost of living still prevalent, making school uniforms last for the entire school year and longer is more important than ever.
So with less than one week left until the kids return to school, parents will be looking for ways to save money on their child’s school uniform.
Farah Mensah, a luxury children’s clothing expert at royal-family favourite brand Lallie London, has shared her five tips for school uniform longevity.
Farah says: “I always recommend spot cleaning stains before putting items in the washing machine.
“This really helps prevent them from setting in and, whilst it might seem like an extra step, it can save you from having to treat stubborn stains later on.
“Make sure to stick to a gentle 30-degree wash to protect the fabric as hot water can cause colours to fade and damage delicate fibres.”
Farah says: “Always remember that less is more when it comes to fabric conditioners.
“Too much can cause bobbling, which not only looks unsightly on school jumpers but can actually weaken the fabric over time, meaning you’ll have to replace it sooner.
“To avoid bobbling further and to keep your children’s uniforms looking their best, I recommend turning them inside out before washing.
“This helps prevent abrasion and reduces the risk of the material bobbling which creates a well-worn look.
“It’s such a small change that can make a big difference.
Additionally, you can consider using a gentle detergent that’s specifically designed for delicate fabrics.
“Avoid harsh detergents with bleach or enzymes, as these can damage the fibres and cause premature wear and tear.”
Farah says: “Air drying is the key to preserving the shape and quality of your child’s uniform.
“I always advise against tumble drying as it can cause damage to the fabrics, fading, and even shrinkage.
“Most parents will buy a size-up in school uniforms so it will fit their child for longer, but this is immediately counteracted when they frequently use a tumble dryer.
“Air drying allows the fabric to dry slowly and evenly, helping to prevent wrinkles and maintain its shape.
“If you’re in a hurry, a quick spritz of anti-wrinkle spray can be a lifesaver.
“However, it’s important to read the care label first, as some fabrics may not be suitable for this treatment.”
Farah says: “Children will always be children, so grass stains and pen marks are inevitable.
“Using specific techniques for stain removal is key, rather than choosing a one-size-fits-all solution.
“For those pesky grass stains, I recommend a solution of vinegar, water, and a mild detergent.
“The acidity of the vinegar helps to break down the chlorophyll in the grass stain. For pen marks, soak the item in cold water before spot cleaning with a stain remover.
“Be sure to test the stain remover on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage.
IF you are struggling to afford the cost of school uniform or PE kit, you may be able to apply for a grant from your local council - but the criteria vary from council to council.
This is usually in the form of a one-off payment paid directly into your bank account. Some councils will reimburse payments made to approved retailers.
You can ask your local council what help is available and when you need to apply.
If you can’t get targeted help from your council, there are other options to get cheap uniform.
Speak to your school to see if they can offer you some clothing.
Some charities offer help to families in need too. Charity Turn2Us has a free grants search tool on its website which you can use to find out what help is available to you.
Charity shops can also be a good place to find cheap school uniform.
“For white shirts, a soak in warm water with store-bought stain remover can work wonders.
“However, never use bleach because you think it will make the shirt whiter, as it can actually weaken the fabric and cause more yellowing over time.”
Farah says: “Parents so often focus on the uniform itself, that they forget about their child’s shoes and school bag.
“Regular cleaning and polishing, ideally every two weeks, will extend the life of the shoes.
“If you have the budget, I would advise investing in a good quality shoe polish and apply it regularly to protect the material and prevent scuffs.
“As for the school bag, empty it regularly and wipe it down with a damp cloth. For tougher stains, use a mild detergent solution, but always avoid using harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fabric.
“For a deeper clean, you can hand-wash the bag in lukewarm water with a gentle detergent.
“Be sure to rinse thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely before storing it. This is a great task to tackle during the half-term.”
