PVC clothing requires care to make it last longer and maintain its appearance. As PVC clothes are made from a fabric layer covered with a plastic layer, they should not be over-stretched to avoid damage to the plastic layer. Excessive stretching can cause the plastic layer to lose its smooth texture and stay striated, lose some of its original shine, and possibly tear. If PVC clothing is not soiled, the inside can be freshened up with a fabric refresher product and the plastic outside can be wiped with a damp sponge. If necessary, PVC clothes can be hand washed with warm water and a small amount of liquid
detergent.
Washing powder should not be used because the flakes can remain on the clothing after washing, and can also stick to the plastic layer. The detergent can be removed using cold water and after turning the garment inside out it can be left in the shade to dry. After drying the inside (fabric layer), a garment can be turned to dry the outside (plastic layer). PVC clothing is damaged by
ironing. It is made of heat-sensitive plastics and which may melt under the iron, and high temperatures from any source, such as flames,
clothes dryers, and cigarettes can damage it. The fumes from burning or smoking PVC plastic can also damage it. Different colored PVC garments, especially white, may be subject to staining if they are not stored separately from each other. PVC clothing is usually stored hanging in a garment bag away from other clothing. The polyester fabric used for backing PVC clothing is more resistant to wear and tear than rubber, and PVC clothing does not require the use of any shining products. However, it is possible to polish PVC clothing using liquid
silicone spray sold by car accessory shops. ==In popular culture==