How to Care for Your Kilt
Your kilt is an investment so, naturally, you want to keep it looking great as long as possible. With proper care, your kilt can last a lifetime (or even two).
What's the proper way to care for your kilt? Kilt Society™ can store hundreds of kilts at a single time, so it's safe to say we're experts on the matter. Here are our top tips.
STORING YOUR KILT
Before storing your kilt, always be sure to air it thoroughly. Outside on a bright day is best.
If that’s not an option, try hanging your kilt in the shower room (but not IN the shower) so it can absorb the steam. Fully dry your kilt in a warm, airy space before storing it away.
If storing your kilt long-term, we recommend a high-quality hanger that secures your kilt along the entire top. For short term storage, our Steel Kilt Hanger will do the trick. Avoid sagging by always clipping the front and back of your kilt together.
Finally, wool likes to breathe so give your custom made kilt plenty of space in your wardrobe. Pick up a Kilt Carrier & Roll Set for extra protection.
CLEANING YOUR KILT
Spills happen. If you spill something on your kilt, dab (don't rub) the spot with a clean, damp, lint-free cloth right away.
If that doesn't do the trick, your options depend on the type of kilt you have.
Kilt Society™ Essentials Kilt
Lucky for you, our Essentials kilts are washable. Wash at 30° (it saves you money and energy) with a liquid product. Use a short spin on the synthetic cycle to reduce creasing. Be sure to tie your straps before putting your kilt in your washing machine to prevent any damage from the buckle.
When finished, hang your kilt to dry on a kilt hanger to reduce the need for ironing.
Custom Made Kilt
Wool is very resilient and naturally resistant to dirt, so your custom made kilt requires minimal care. If you can't fix a spill by dabbing, it's best to turn it over to a professional cleaner. Be sure to choose a cleaner who knows their stuff.
To keep your bespoke kilt free of lint and dust, you can also lightly brush it downwards with a soft clothes brush.
IRONING YOUR KILT
A kilt will almost never need ironing. Any light creases should drop out after hanging for a few days, especially if hung in a steamy atmosphere.
If you do feel your kilt needs ironing, here's what to do.
Kilt Society™ Essentials Kilt
Be sure to use a cool iron on the reverse side of the fabric. Take care to align the pleats and don't let them fall off the ironing board. Consider enlisting the help of a pal to hold up your pleats.
Custom Made Kilt
Set your iron to steam and place the kilt's apron on the ironing board, with the underside facing you. Place an ironing cloth over the fabric to protect it, and lightly place the iron on the cloth. Don't iron back and forth - simply place the iron on the fabric, lift, and place on the next section.
Never iron wool on the right side as this can leave shiny marks on the wool.
Your custom kilt's pleats rarely need pressing. We recommend waiting to have your kilt professionally cleaned to steam your pleats.
TRANSPORTING YOUR KILT
If temporarily transporting your kilt by car, hang your outfit in a protective carrier from the suit hook.
When travelling longer distances, consider rolling your kilt to save space and minimise the need for ironing. Our specially designed kilt carrier and kilt roll set is the perfect solution, allowing you to roll your kilt and carry it over your shoulder.