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Fashion & Accessories

Waterproofs that keep the little ones dry? Shoe care that extends their lifespan? We test 31 products in clothing, shoes and accessories.

157 reviews · page 4 of 4

Fashion and accessories focuses on children's clothing, garment care, and shoe care — categories where durability and safety trump trend. Children's waterproofs are tested on actual school-run conditions: repeated wash cycles, playground abrasion, zip tooth breakage. We check for BS EN 14682 compliance on cords and drawstrings (a real child-safety requirement) and avoid any garments with historical recall issues. Garment care products are rated on fabric-friendliness — a lint remover that shaves pilling but thins fabric is worse than a slower one that preserves it. Shoe care tests emphasise true waterproofing through multiple rainy commutes, not just fresh-out-of-tin performance.

Frequently asked questions about fashion & accessories

Are expensive children's waterproofs actually worth it?+
For primary-school daily use, yes. Reima, Polarn O. Pyret, and Didriksons cost 2–3x high-street prices but survive 2–3 children. Budget options usually last one child and need early replacement. Cost per wear often favours the premium brand.
Which shoe waterproofing works best on leather?+
Wax-based (Nikwax Waterproofing Wax, Collonil Leather Gel) for smooth leather, spray-based DWR (Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof) for textured leather. Reapply every 4–6 weeks during British winter — a single treatment rarely lasts a full season.
Do fabric shavers damage knitwear?+
Only if you press hard or leave them in one spot. Rechargeable ones with adjustable height settings (Philips GC026) are safer than cheap fixed-blade models. On loosely knit jumpers, use the highest setting and light pressure.
How do I store winter coats off-season?+
Clean first (any residue attracts moths), store in breathable cotton garment bags (not plastic), and add cedar blocks or lavender sachets. Storage in attics is fine if temperature-stable; garages usually aren't due to moisture.