Theoretically, itsbetter to spend more on quality, but thats only true if the quality item lasts.

If you buy quality, this is an expensive mistake.

Heres how to take better care of your clothes.

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Quality clothes are usually more expensive, but that doesnt meanallexpensive clothes are quality.

The Balanceoffers a few useful guidelinesto determine quality:

Finished seams:Check out the seams on the fabric.

They should be uniform and, when you turn the garment inside out, the seams should be finished.

The above video shows you how to check seams as well.

If you pull on the seam and can see the thread, thats not a good sign.

The above video shows you a bit more how to check for this, too.

Its also important to try everything on because quality items are well cut.

Learn the Basics of Washing

Ive been doing laundry since I was about eight years old.

I shove everything in, add some detergent, and press a button.

As a result, Ive ruined too many clothes to count.

If you dont already know the basics, here are a few pointers.

For starters, your clothing items come with complicated symbols that tell you exactly how you should wash them.

Read and decipher those symbols (this handy chart can help).

Second, the above video explains a few things youre probably doing wrong with laundry.

Also, ensure youre not rubbing stains too hard, which can actually make them worse.

You also want to avoid the dryer when you could.

This is why its best to keepdelicates, like bras, out of the dryer.

It also helps tosort your clothes by fabric key in, not just by color.

Invest in Some Laundry Tools

The right tools can make a big difference, too.

This way, youavoid too much ironing,which can also damage clothes.

They help your clothes stay separated to promote better airflow, which leads to quicker drying time.

Not only will this preserve your clothes, but it might also save some money on your electric bill.

Another method, though, is to toss in a dry towel when you dry your clothes.

Rinse, gently squeeze out the water, then lay it flat to dry.

If you have a silk blouse, never put it in the dryer.

Oh, and then thereshotly debated raw denim.

You want to avoid washing them because it could ruin both of those features.

Some experts recommend freezing them, and others completely balk at that advice.

However, freezing them might get rid of the smell.

If you dont have a receipt, youll get a store credit instead.

It helps ensure your buy quality purchase is indeed a frugal one.