If you have caved in and bought a pair of cargo pants, then you understand how versatile they are. You can wear them for outdoor adventures, work, and casual outings. While they are comfortable and rugged, it is important to maintain them and keep them clean. In this article, we’ll show you how to wash cargo pants properly to extend the life of your favorite pair.
Understanding Cargo Pants
Cargo pants are made from durable materials, usually cotton or polyester. They have large pockets on the sides, which are great for storing items like phones or keys. They come in different styles and colors.
Materials Needed
Before you start washing your cargo pants, get the following materials:
– Mild laundry detergent
– Pre-wash stain remover
– Soft-bristled brush
– Washbasin or washing machine
– Clothesline or drying rack
– Iron
Preparing the Cargo Pants for Washing
Turn your cargo pants inside out to protect the fabric and keep the pockets from filling with water. Shake off any loose dirt or debris before you proceed.
Washing Cargo Pants by Machine
Check the care label on your cargo pants to see if they can be washed by machine. Use a mild laundry detergent and add a pre-wash stain remover if there are any stains. Choose a delicate cycle and use cold water to prevent shrinkage. Avoid using fabric softener on cargo pants as it can clog the pockets. Once the cycle is done, remove your pants and hang them to dry.
Hand Washing Cargo Pants
Fill a washbasin with cold water and add mild laundry detergent. Gently agitate the water to create a lather. Place your cargo pants in the basin and swish them around gently. Scrub any stains with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse the pants with clean water until there are no more suds. Squeeze out the excess water and hang them to dry.
Drying the Cargo Pants
Once you have washed your cargo pants, hang them to dry. Avoid drying them in direct sunlight or using a dryer as the heat can shrink the fabric. Instead, hang them on a clothesline or drying rack in a well-ventilated area.
Ironing Cargo Pants
Iron your cargo pants on a medium heat setting, pressing out any wrinkles or creases. Iron the pockets carefully, inside-out, to avoid leaving imprints on the outside of the fabric.
Stain Removal from Cargo Pants
Cargo pants are prone to stains, especially if you wear them outdoors. To remove stains:
– Use a pre-wash stain remover
– Apply the stain remover to the affected area
– Allow it to sit for a few minutes
– Wash your cargo pants as usual
Odor Removal from Cargo Pants
If your cargo pants smell bad, you can remove the odor by adding white vinegar to the wash cycle. Use ½ cup of white vinegar and wash your pants as usual. The vinegar will neutralize the odor and leave your cargo pants smelling fresh.
Tips for Maintaining Cargo Pants
– Always read the care label before washing your cargo pants
– Avoid using high heat on your cargo pants
– Iron your pants carefully to avoid leaving imprints
– Store your cargo pants folded or hanging in a well-ventilated area
– Treat stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I wash my cargo pants with other clothes?
Yes, you can, but it’s important to separate light and dark colors to prevent color bleeding.
2. Should I use bleach to clean my cargo pants?
No, don’t use bleach on cargo pants as it can damage the fabric.
3. Can I iron my cargo pants on high heat?
No, iron your cargo pants on a medium heat setting to avoid damaging the fabric.
4. How do I get wrinkles out of my cargo pants?
Iron your pants on a medium heat setting to remove wrinkles.
5. Can I machine dry my cargo pants?
No, air dry your cargo pants to prevent them from shrinking.
Conclusion
By following the tips outlined in this article, you can easily wash and maintain your cargo pants to ensure their longevity. Remember to pay attention to the care label, wash your pants gently, and air dry them. With proper care, your cargo pants will continue to look great for years to come.
