What is not a fault but wear

Short answer: Pilling, thin elbows, a faded colour and tired elastic are wear, not faults. They come from wearing and washing and are not covered by the right to claim, but there is a lot you can do day to day to delay them.

Wear follows the number of washes

A garment that has been washed fifty times has been through real strain. Each wash rubs the fibres against each other and the drum, and each day of use pulls on seams and elastic. This applies to everything in the men's bestsellers, including the pieces you wear most.

Faults show up early

A production fault usually shows within the first months, while wear comes after years. A seam opening after a few weeks is different from a thin knee after several seasons. The same goes for men's bamboo joggers, which are often worn both at home and out.

The line is not sharp

If a colour fades after five washes, it is a fault. After fifty it is wear, also on bamboo sweatpants for men. In between it is a judgement, where how the item was washed and whether the care label was followed both matter. If in doubt, write to the shop with photos.

Pilling is normal

All soft fabrics pill where they rub, such as under the arms, on the thighs and where a bag hangs. It is not a sign of poor quality, but of fibres that are soft and move. Pills can be removed gently with a lint roller or a fabric shaver.

Elastic tires over time

Elastic in waistbands and cuffs loses some stretch over time, especially with hot washes and the tumble dryer. After several years that is wear. If the elastic goes slack after a few months, though, it may be a fault, and it is worth writing to the shop.

Colour fades in sun and wash

Dark colours fade gradually the more often they are washed and dried in direct sun. Wash them inside out, at a low temperature and with a mild detergent. Dry them in the shade or indoors, and the colour lasts longer.

How to delay wear

Wash only when clothes need it, and use a laundry bag for the thinnest pieces. Skip fabric softener and the tumble dryer, and lay clothes flat or hang them up. Rotate between several sets, so the same piece is not worn and washed every single day.

When to write to the shop

Write if something breaks or changes a lot after a short time, and you have cared for it as instructed. Send photos, the order number and the purchase date. The shop can then judge whether it is a fault or wear and reply accordingly.

Frequently asked questions

When is fading a fault

When it happens after a few washes with correct care. Fading after many washes and drying in the sun is normal wear.

Is pilling a fault

No, all soft fabrics pill where they rub. Pills can be removed gently with a lint roller or a fabric shaver.

What about elastic that goes slack

After years it is wear. After a few months it may be a fault, and then it is worth writing to the shop with photos.