Top tips from a tailor
How do I take care of my suit?
Country Road fashions
How do I take care of my suit?
A suit is an investment and like any investment, you want to get the most out of it. A few simple practices in suit care will add years to its longevity. Anyone who includes these steps in their routine can vouch for the benefits. Maintaining your suit correctly saves you money, and you won’t have to bid farewell to your favourite garments. Follow our guide and learn how to properly care for a suit.
A simple guide to caring for your Country Road Fashions suit
Storage and everyday usage
1. Use the right coat hangers
- Not all hangers are created equal. A proper, thick wooden hanger can add years to the life of your suit. It supports the shoulders and helps the jacket keep its shape (unlike thin wire hangers, which can distort the silhouette).
- Choosing the correct width for your size prevents the shoulders from drooping. If you’re unsure, ask us and we’ll recommend the right size.
- Wood naturally absorbs a bit of moisture from the fabric. Cedar wood hangers are even better, as they also help repel moths.
2. Give your suit space
- Avoid cramming your suit into an overfilled wardrobe. Suits need airflow so the fibres can breathe and dry properly.
- Leave a little space between jackets to prevent creasing and moisture build-up.
- If using a garment bag, choose a breathable cloth bag rather than a synthetic one, which can trap moisture.
3. Let it air dry after wearing
After each wear, hang your suit on a good hanger and let it air out for 24–48 hours (depending on fabric weight).
Throughout the day, your suit naturally absorbs moisture from your body and the environment. Letting it rest and dry fully between wears is one of the simplest ways to extend its life.
4. Rotate your suits
Just like you, your suit needs recovery time.
- Try not to wear the same suit more than twice a week.
- Rotating your suits allows the fibres to relax and maintain their resilience.
- Consider getting two pairs of trousers per suit—trousers take the most stress and will always wear out faster than the jacket.
5. Pack it properly when travelling
When travelling, use a thick hanger and a garment bag whenever possible. If you must fold it (especially for flights):
- Turn the jacket inside out.
- Hold it by the shoulders and fold so that the lapels line up neatly.
- Gently roll the jacket instead of sharply folding it.
From our experience, this method best minimises creasing when packing a suit in luggage.
6. Be mindful of your pockets
Overstuffed pockets not only look untidy, they also put unnecessary strain on the fabric and seams.
- Carry only the essentials in your jacket and trouser pockets.
- Avoid heavy items like large wallets, phones, or key bundles in the same pocket every day.
- Again, an extra pair of trousers per suit helps spread out the wear.
Cleaning and maintenance
1. Brush your suit regularly
Dust and dirt settle into the fabric during the day. Over time, they can damage the fibres.
- After each wear, gently brush your suit with a soft-bristled clothes brush (ideally animal hair).
- A quick brush-down is enough to remove surface particles.
- Regular brushing also makes your suit less attractive to moths.
2. Steam, don’t iron
High-heat ironing can flatten and weaken wool fibres. Instead:
- Use a small hand-held steamer to relax the fibres and remove wrinkles.
- If you don’t have a steamer, hanging your suit in the bathroom while you take a hot shower can help release light creases.
3. Dealing with stains
Spills happen—even with the most careful wearer.
- Act quickly: gently dab (don’t rub) the stain with a clean, damp cloth. If it doesn’t lift easily, don’t overwork it.
- For particle-based stains (like dust, dry food, etc.), a steamer can help loosen them before gently brushing.
- For oil-based stains, sprinkling a little talcum powder can sometimes help draw out the oil.
- If the stain is stubborn, it’s best to bring it to a professional dry cleaner who understands tailored garments.
4. How often should you dry clean your suit?
Dry cleaning is helpful, but too much of it will shorten a suit’s lifespan.
- As a general rule, depending on how often you wear it, a suit should only be dry cleaned around 2–4 times per year.
- Spot-clean and steam in between, instead of sending it for a full clean after every few wears.
Need more help? We’re here for you.
If you’d like personalised advice on how to care for your suits, or you’re unsure about cleaning, storage, or repairs, feel free to contact us at Country Road Fashions.
We’re a third-generation Bangkok tailor with over 70 years of experience, and we’re always happy to guide you—whether it’s about maintaining your current wardrobe or creating your next bespoke piece.