Tuxedos are in a league of their own. Typically featuring a shawl collar, single-button jacket and bow-tie, they’re the epitome of semi-formal suave. Unless you happen to attend a lot of red carpet events, owning a tuxedo might seem somewhat extravagant. However, having an outfit at the ready when you need it is convenient and in the long-run, economical. As an investment piece, proper care is key, so here is a guide on how to do just that.
Cleaning Your Tuxedo
Like any other garment, tuxedos are likely to get the odd spill or stain on them. Keeping yours clean can help extend the life of the garment while making sure it stays looking sharp for the next time you need it. Here are the three main methods:
- Steam Cleaning
Irons place excessive heat and pressure on delicate fabrics, making them unsuitable for decreasing tuxedos. Investing in a steam-cleaner is better as it removes wrinkles gently without also using harsh chemicals. To steam clean your tuxedo:
- Fill your steamer with fresh water and swipe a clean, dry washcloth over the head to remove excess moisture.
- Switch the steamer on and allow it to run for a couple of minutes (it may spit water at first). When you see steam appear, it’s ready to use.
- Hold the steamer about 6 inches apart from any creased areas, and slowly steam any wrinkles out.
- Once done, hang up your suit in a dry, well-ventilated place away from direct sun.
- When your suit is dry, check for any lingering musty smells as this may be a sign to progress to our second method.
- Dry Cleaning
A good professional dry cleaner can spruce up your tuxedo effectively, removing stains and creases to get it looking like new again. Repeat use of dry-cleaning chemicals and methods can wear out fabrics over time, so this is a method to use sparingly; two to three times a year is best.
- Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning can help remove occasional stains or spills, but it’s important to know what you’re working with. Velvets or silk may require specialist treatment, but for cotton or wool, a clean white cloth dipped in water can be used to dab (not rub) away any soiled areas.
If using any of the above methods immediately after wearing your tux, shake the jacket after removal and hang in a ventilated area for half an hour or so. Then, use a lint roller or suit-brush to brush the jacket down from the shoulders to remove any lint or fluff.
Storing Your Tuxedo
When not in use, use a wooden shaped hanger and cloth garment bag to store your tuxedo in a
cool place away from strong sunlight, and away from moisture. Dampness or humidity can lead to mould and mildew, causing stains and smells and potentially damaging the fabric of your suit.
Tuxedos are the perfect semi-formal standby to have in your wardrobe. With proper care and maintenance, a good-quality tux can last many years.
