The kilt is a traditional garment with a long history. The kilt should always be maintained with care, regardless of how it is worn, to ensure that it lasts for many years.  You should take proper care of your kilt if you want it to appear its best, whether you're wearing it for a wedding, a special event, or simply because you like the way it looks.

In this blog, we'll provide professional advice on preventing kilt damage in everyday life, keeping your kilt clean and smelling fresh, how to wear your kilt throughout time, and more.


  1. Freshen Up Your Kilts Between Wearings


Allow it to air out: After wearing your kilt, hang it out to dry for a day or two. This will assist in the discharge of any smells or moisture trapped in the cloth. Make sure it's adequately conditioned and away from direct sunshine or heat sources.


Making use of fabric refresher: A small spritz of fabric refresher will help eliminate smells and keep your kilt fresh in between cleanings. Choose a product that is particularly developed for use on delicate materials and try it first on an unnoticeable spot.


Ironing and Steaming: Ironing your kilts between wearings help to keep your attire looking great. Always check the care label on your kilt for particular ironing directions and fabric concerns before you begin. This will assist you in avoiding damage to the material and voiding any warranties. Depending on the fabric of your kilt, use the proper heat setting.

Begin by ironing the waistline and the apron. If required, use a pressing cloth to protect the fabric from direct heat, and iron softly along the grain of the material. Begin at the top of the pleats and work your way down, pressing each pleat separately with the edge of the iron. 

A portable steamer might be beneficial to remove stubborn wrinkles or creases.


Clean Stains: If you find a little stain on your kilt, use a moist cloth and a mild laundry detergent to spot-clean it with as little delay as possible. Be cautious and avoid rubbing too hard, as this might cause fabric damage.


Keep Rotating Your Kilts: Rotate the usage of your kilts to avoid excessive wear on any particular kilt. This will help them retain their look and live longer.


Dusting Off Kilts: Remove any dirt or debris that has gathered on the kilt during wear with a soft-bristled brush. This keeps dirt from being embedded in the fibers and helps keep the kilt looking nice.


  1. Kilt Cleaning


This may sound basic but always start by reading the care label on your kilt to ensure you're washing it correctly. The care label will include important information about the fabric as well as precise washing directions. Ignoring these recommendations might result in irreparable kilt damage. 

If your kilt requires a deeper cleaning, hand wash it in cold water with a mild detergent. Gently agitate the kilt's fabric and wash thoroughly to eradicate any residue. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can cause fabric damage and affect the color. To dry your kilt, lay it flat on a clean towel and keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources.


  1. Prevent Kilt Shrinkage


To avoid shrinking, follow the care label on your kilt, which includes precise directions for washing, drying, and ironing. Use low heat settings and a mild cycle while washing or drying your kilt to keep the fabric from shrinking. When feasible, air dry your kilt, as tumble drying can cause shrinking, especially in wool kilts.


  1. Kilt Storage


Humid or wet circumstances may wreak damage on your kilt, but with appropriate care, you can keep it in good shape. After wearing your kilt in wet weather, hang it to dry in a well-ventilated place. Direct heat sources should be avoided since they might cause shrinkage and fabric damage. Silica gel sachets might help absorb excess moisture in your kilt storage area. Place them near your kilt to keep it dry and protected. Basements and attics can be wet and humid, so avoid keeping your kilt in these regions. To keep your kilt in form and avoid shrinking, keep it on a kilt hanger and in a ventilated garment bag.

If you are not hanging the kilt after you wear it you can also fold it by following these steps: 

Place the canvas protective cover on the bed first. Turn the plaid over your head and lay it over the canvas cover, then pleat the kilt as if you were putting it on. Make sure to place the pleats carefully. Fold the upper and lower apron over the pleated section. Smooth out all of the creases and folds with care. Then, fold the plaid end of this arrangement to the hem edge of the kilt. Fold the canvas cover over the kilt, fasten it, then roll the kilt securely from the fold to the hem edge.

Finally, tie the kilt up!


  1. Kilt Cleaning 


Considering not all dry cleaners have expertise with kilts, it's critical to choose one that does. They'll have the skills and experience to work with delicate materials and precise pleats. If your kilt has stains, notify the cleaner and discuss the best approach for removal. Some stains may need specific treatment, and a skilled kilt cleaner should be able to manage them while avoiding the use of harsh chemicals. When you receive your kilt, examine it thoroughly for any leftover stains, damage, or pressing concerns.


  1. Protocols and Etiquettes for Wearing a Kilt:


Sitting in a kilt might be intimidating, especially if you're new to wearing one. To begin, keep in mind that the pleats of your kilt are the most delicate component. Before sitting, carefully raise the rear of your kilt and straighten out the pleats to avoid damaging them. This keeps the pleats flat and prevents them from being crumpled or wrinkled. When it comes to manners, humility is essential. Sit with your knees together and your legs angled to one side. This avoids inadvertent exposure while maintaining a respectful demeanor. If you're wearing a sporran, keep it to the side while sitting to avoid crushing or ruining it.


  1. Prevent Kilt Pin Holes


The kilt pin should be put on the kilt's front apron, about 2-3 inches from the bottom border. Avoid putting it too near to or too far away from the edge, since this increases the danger of snagging or damaging it. Be cautious when attaching the kilt pin and avoid pushing it through the cloth. Hold the kilt tightly and drive the pin through both layers of cloth, ensuring it is secure but not too tight.

To provide an extra layer of protection, consider using a pin cover or protector. Pin covers, which are often made of rubber or silicone, can be put over the kilt pin's point. They protect the pin by cushioning it and preventing it from scraping. Each time you wear the kilt, try twisting the pin slightly. This helps to disperse stress more uniformly, lowering the likelihood of localized damage.


  1. Repairing a Kilt


Knowing the appropriate methods and having the right equipment may make or break fixing a torn or broken pleat on your kilt.  Determine the Affected Area Before performing any repairs, carefully check your kilt to determine which areas require attention. Align the ripped pleat's edges, making sure the original fold lines meet up.


Pin the pleat edges to keep them in place. Thread your needle with matching thread and tie a knot at the end. Sew tiny, even threads along the original seam line. To fully fix the pleat, stitch through both layers of cloth. After stitching the length of the pleat, knot the thread and clip any excess. After finishing the repair, thoroughly check the region to ensure that the stitching is secure and the pleat is flat. If required, use a low-heat iron to push the pleat back into form. 

It is recommended that you seek an expert if you are unsure.


Summing Up:


Now that you are aware of the tips to take care of your kilt, you can buy a kilt of your choice and flaunt your outfit. Don’t waste your time and visit  AllSafe Traders  for a large assortment of high-quality kilts and accessories at a reasonable cost.