Jirai Kei Fashion Care: Tips to Keep Your Edgy Style Fresh

Jirai Kei fashion, also known as "Landmine style," is a Japanese street fashion that combines cute and edgy elements. The name "Jirai Kei" translates to "landmine type," reflecting a style that is both sweet and explosive. This trend has gained popularity, especially among teenagers and young women in Japan, and has spread to other parts of the world through social media platforms like TikTok.

I. Preventing Color Bleeding

Color bleeding is a common issue with Jirai Kei fashion, especially those with vibrant or mixed colors. Before washing, gently rub and rinse the garment under running water. If colored water appears, it indicates that the garment may bleed color. First, rinse the garment in cold water with a pinch of salt to help set the color. Then, use a color fixative or color catcher. Color fixatives enhance the dye's bond with the fabric, while color catchers absorb loose dye particles to prevent color transfer. To use, dilute the color fixative according to the instructions and soak the garment for 20-30 minutes; for color catchers, add them to the washing machine or hand wash water during the process, ensuring that the light-colored parts do not come into contact with water to avoid staining.

Combine with Garment Care Instructions: Always check the care label on the garment before washing. If the label states "Hand wash only" or "Hand wash," opt for hand washing with a mild detergent. For garments labeled "Machine washable," choose the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine and place the garment in a laundry bag to reduce friction and damage. Wash separately to prevent color bleeding (do not mix dark and light colors), and it is recommended to use the quick wash mode to minimize soaking time.

II. Removing Odors from Polyester Fabrics

Polyester is often used in Jirai Kei fashion due to its excellent shape retention and three-dimensional appearance. However, this material is prone to absorbing odors. If you are not allergic to aluminum, you can use aluminum-containing deodorants. Additionally, sweat-removing detergents, sportswear detergents, or strongly scented detergents are also good choices. Regularly cleaning your washing machine can also help prevent detergent residue from causing odors on your clothes.

Combine with Garment Care Instructions: Polyester fabrics are generally machine washable. To better remove odors, soak the garment in water containing deodorant for 15-20 minutes before washing according to the normal procedure. If the garment has stubborn sweat stains or odors, increase the amount of detergent and choose a high-temperature wash (if allowed by the garment label).

III. Preventing Wrinkles and Damage

To maintain the perfect shape of your Jirai Kei fashion, avoid using a dryer and opt for air drying instead. For hand-washed garments, gently press them onto a towel to absorb excess water before drying. Low-temperature ironing is key to preventing fabric damage. Avoid hanging elastic garments to prevent stretching. Knit or lace materials should be hand washed or placed in a thick laundry bag to reduce wear.

Combine with Garment Care Instructions: Check the drying method indicated on the care label. If the label states "Do not tumble dry" or "Hang dry," avoid using a dryer. For garments labeled "Lay flat to dry," especially those made of knit or lace materials, lay the garment flat on a clean towel to dry, avoiding direct sunlight to prevent fading and deformation.

IV. Preventing Embellishments from Falling Off

Jirai Kei fashion often features delicate embellishments that can easily fall off during washing. Before washing, turn the garment inside out, remove all detachable accessories, and place it in a suitable-sized thick laundry bag. For non-detachable embellishments, wrap them with band-aids or tape to prevent them from falling off. If the garment has many non-detachable embellishments, it is best to hand wash to better protect the decorations.

Combine with Garment Care Instructions: When washing garments with embellishments, always check the care label for washing instructions. If the label states "Hand wash only" or "Hand wash," choose hand washing with a mild detergent. For garments labeled "Machine washable," place the garment in a laundry bag and select the gentle or delicate cycle to reduce damage to the embellishments.

V. Removing Stains

White Jirai Kei fashion can be easily stained, which can be very unattractive. In such cases, alcohol, acetone, or RIT dye remover can be used to remove the stains. When using these chemicals, follow the product instructions carefully to avoid damaging the garment.

Combine with Garment Care Instructions: Before using a dye remover, always check the material and care instructions on the garment label. If the label states "Do not use chemicals" or "Do not bleach," avoid using dye removers. For garments labeled "Can use mild bleach," you can try RIT dye remover, but follow the product instructions strictly and test on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the garment.

VI. Dealing with Metal Fittings Oxidation

Oxidation of metal fittings can affect the overall appearance of your Jirai Kei fashion. In this case, you can use polishing paste to restore their luster. Squeeze out an appropriate amount of polishing paste, apply it evenly to the oxidized metal, and wipe it back and forth with a cotton swab. If one application is not enough, rinse it off with water and repeat the process. Polishing paste not only removes the oxidation layer from the metal surface but also forms a protective film to prevent further oxidation.

Combine with Garment Care Instructions: When dealing with oxidized metal fittings, always check the material and care instructions on the garment label. If the label states "Do not use chemicals" or "Do not polish," avoid using polishing paste. For garments labeled "Can use mild chemicals," you can try polishing paste, but follow the product instructions strictly and test on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the garment.

VII. Washing Tips

• Wash Separately to Prevent Color Bleeding: Do not mix dark and light-colored garments. It is recommended to wash them separately to avoid color transfer.
• Use Quick Wash Mode: The quick wash mode reduces the soaking time of the garments in the washing machine, minimizing the risk of color fading and transfer.
• Avoid Hot Water: Hot water can cause garments to shrink, deform, or fade. It is recommended to use cold or lukewarm water (not exceeding 40 degrees Celsius) for washing.
• Do Not Soak with Bleach-Containing Detergents: Detergents containing bleach can damage the fabric of the garments, causing them to discolor or deteriorate. It is recommended to use mild detergents and avoid products containing bleach.

By following these care tips, you can easily address common issues with Jirai Kei fashion and keep them looking their best. Remember, proper care not only extends the life of your garments but also ensures that you look your best every time you wear them. Save these tips and keep your Jirai Kei fashion pieces shining bright!