If you’ve felt as if your clothes are wearing out faster than they used to, you’re not imagining it. According to America’s Best Cleaners’ 2025 Analysis Report on Tariffs, Apparel Quality, and Operational Costs, many mid- and entry-level fashion brands are quietly lowering their standards to offset rising production costs.
The report notes that “many mid- and entry-level brands are managing tariff and freight costs by down-specifying materials, components, and finishing.” This shows up as “thinner fabrics, lower-grade zippers and trims, and reduced seam reinforcement—leading to earlier onset of pilling, color loss, hardware failure, and seam splits.”
So while prices may appear stable, the garments themselves are often less durable, explaining why clothes wear out faster today.
The Hidden Cost of Cheaper Clothes
When durability drops but price tags stay the same, you’re actually paying more over time. The report suggests using a Cost-Per-Wear (CPW) model to “reframe value around longevity and professional care.”
Here’s how it works:
- A $120 jacket worn 120 times costs $1 per wear.
- But if it only lasts 60 wears before showing damage, your cost doubles to $2 per wear.
This simple math helps explain why clothes wear out faster and why investing in quality care extends both their lifespan and your dollar.
Why Professional Care Makes a Difference
At Fox Cleaners, we’ve seen these changes in garment construction firsthand. Today’s fabrics and finishes often require more delicate handling to avoid fading, stretching, or fraying.
Our experts inspect each garment, check seams and closures, and use gentle yet effective cleaning processes designed to protect delicate fibers. Whether it’s an everyday t-shirt or a tailored suit, we make sure your garments are cleaned with the precision and care they deserve.
By choosing professional cleaning, you can reduce your cost-per-wear, preserve color and texture, and keep your wardrobe looking its best for years to come.
A Note About Pricing (and Why It Matters)
Because today’s fabrics and construction methods vary so widely, some garments require extra time, specialized cleaning solutions, or delicate finishing techniques to maintain their quality. These steps help prevent color loss, shrinkage, or seam damage, and ensure your items come back looking their best.
While this careful handling can influence pricing, it’s also what keeps your wardrobe lasting longer. Our goal is always to provide fair and transparent pricing that reflects the level of care each garment requires, so you can feel confident that your investment is being protected.
Simple Ways to Make Your Clothes Last Longer
You can also play a part in helping your garments last:
- Don’t overwash. Airing out or spot-treating can often replace a full wash.
- Read the care labels. Follow fabric-specific instructions closely.
- Store properly. Use breathable garment bags and padded hangers to prevent damage.
- Bring delicate or structured pieces to Fox Cleaners. Professional care can prevent early wear and tear.
These small steps, paired with regular maintenance, go a long way toward preserving your favorite clothes.
The Bottom Line
Manufacturing changes may mean today’s clothes wear out faster, but that doesn’t mean you have to replace them as often.
At Fox Cleaners, we combine experience, precision, and care to help extend the life of your garments. From delicate fabrics to designer pieces, we take pride in protecting your clothes, allowing you to enjoy them longer with confidence and peace of mind.
Source: America’s Best Cleaners, “Tariffs, Apparel Quality, and Operational Costs” (2025).