When clothes go into the work clothes box and get new life

Short answer: When clothes are no longer smart enough for everyday wear, they can get a new life in a box of work clothes for the garage, garden and workshop. Sort strictly, keep it clean, and save what still fits well so you spare your good clothes.

Why a work clothes box is a good idea

Many people have clothes that are no longer smart enough for work or town but are still whole and clean. Instead of throwing them out, they can become the clothes you wear when you paint, clear out the garage or dig in the garden. That keeps your good clothes free of stains.

How to sort what goes in

Take all the clothes you do not wear and go through them piece by piece. Clothes that are still whole and soft do not belong in the box but back in the wardrobe. The box is for what has small holes, stains or a worn look but is still usable. Throw away only what is worn through.

Choose by the task

An old T-shirt is perfect for light work in the garden or garage, where you do not want to wear your good clothes. For dirty jobs, a pair of worn trousers with soft legs can be better than something new. Think about how much the clothes need to take and how much they should protect against heat or dirt.

Save the comfortable ones for last

The best work clothes are the ones you do not think about while wearing them. Soft clothing that does not pinch makes a long job more pleasant. Keep some of your favourite pieces back for everyday wear and do not put them in the box until they are truly worn. See the bestsellers from Copenhagen Bamboo for new everyday clothes.

Keep the box clean and dry

Store the box somewhere dry so the clothes do not get damp and start to smell. Wash work clothes separately from your good clothes so oil, paint and soil do not rub off. Use a low temperature and follow the label. Shake off dust and dirt before the clothes go in the machine.

Socks that are used hard

Socks are often the item that wears out fastest when you walk a lot in boots and work shoes. Keep the socks that still fit well for work and let the nicest ones stay for everyday wear. You can find new bamboo socks when the pairs in the box have done their job. Check the heel and toe, which wear first.

Keep track of what is in the box

Write or think up a new list each season of what is in the box. Then you know what you have and what you lack. Sort out anything that is completely worn too. A box full of things you never use is just clutter, so keep it short and practical.

For everyday wear, not for the workshop

Once you have sorted, look at what your everyday clothes are missing. If there are gaps in the wardrobe, that is a good reason to look at the range for men and choose pieces that suit your everyday life. If you buy something new, the old can go into the box with a clear conscience.

Frequently asked questions

What should go in the work clothes box?

Clothes that are whole and clean but no longer smart enough for everyday wear, such as T-shirts with small stains or worn trousers. Clothes that are worn through should be thrown out or handed in as textile waste.

Should work clothes be washed separately?

Yes, that is a good idea. Oil, paint and soil can rub off on your good clothes. Wash at a low temperature according to the care label, and shake off loose dirt first.

When should clothes be thrown out instead?

When they are worn through, have large holes or are no use for anything. Hand them in as textile waste according to local rules, or use them as cleaning cloths.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.