You've probably noticed when buying new clothes that a small piece of the same material is attached to the label on the inside. An additional button is also attached there in case the one that is already sewn to the clothing comes off. Many people mistakenly believe that this piece of fabric is additionally included in the kit in case you need to make a patch and close a hole. But this is far from true. The flap has another, no less important, meaning.
Why do you attach scraps of fabric to new clothes?
Do not rush to immediately cut off the label and throw it in the trash bin along with everything that is attached to it. In fact, a piece of similar fabric is sewn onto the back of the garment for one purpose - to check in advance how the material reacts to washing, ironing, stain removers and any detergents, that is, to conduct strength tests. After all, it’s better to check it all on a separate section than to completely ruin the thing.
How to check whether clothes will shrink after washing:
- remove the flap from the label;
- place it on a thick sheet of paper and trace it with a pencil (or cut it out to the same size);
- wash a piece of fabric following the manufacturer's recommendations;
- dry and place it again on the same sheet of paper;
- evaluate how the fabric behaved during washing.
If the fabric has decreased in size, then when washing the main clothes it is better to reduce the temperature or completely replace the product used in the process.
How to check whether clothes will lose color when washed:
- prepare a strong soap solution;
- Immerse the flap in it and rub it a little in water;
- leave for 20-30 minutes (minimum washing time in an automatic machine);
- rinse in clean water and squeeze out excess water;
- check whether the water is colored (if it is not noticeable, pour the liquid into a glass with a white coating);
- After the fabric is completely dry, compare the color.
How to check the effect of stain remover and other household laundry detergents:
- wet the flap;
- apply a small amount of product to it;
- leave for 10-15 minutes;
- rinse in warm water and dry;
- compare with basic clothing.
Even after the experiments, do not rush to throw away the flap. It will be useful to you if you want to match other buttons or other accessories, because it is easier to take a small piece of fabric with you than to carry the item with you.
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Well, let’s say this piece has changed its size and color, so what now? Never wash the product or not wear it at all?
Change washing mode, detergent. In short, if you still want to wear something you like, use your head and don’t rush to throw it away. If your head doesn't help, it's never too late to throw it away.