Feeling nervous about washing wool jumpers? Not quite sure how to store your favourite knits without stretching them? We’ve got you covered!
Our expert knitwear care guide is full of simple tips and tricks to help you protect your knitwear and keep it looking great. Here are our six top tips to wash and care for your knitwear properly.
1. Always read the label carefully
Knits can be a bit complicated when it comes to washing them as different fabrics require different levels of care. You should therefore always check the label carefully before washing anything.
Wool, for example, is quite delicate. It usually prefers a gentle hand-wash or a soft machine cycle. Cotton is a bit tougher, so it’s typically fine going in the washing machine. And while acrylic blends are generally easier to care for, it’s still best to follow the care label instructions.
Take time to carefully read over the label and research any unfamiliar symbols. Any symbol with an ‘X’ printed through it means that the knitwear should not be treated this way - such as do not tumble dry or do not iron.
Following the labels properly actually helps keep your knits soft and in good shape. A quick glance can stop you from ruining your favourite jumper. So next time, take a second to read it - it really makes a difference.
2. Use cold water when washing
Washing your knitwear with cold water can prevent it from shrinking. The process is more gentle than using hot water so it minimises the chances of your clothing items losing their shape. This is crucial for delicate knits like wool.
Simply fill the sink with cool water and add some detergent when hand washing. Gently swirl your knit around then you’re good to go! For machine washing, choose a cold cycle and use a laundry bag if you have one.
Using cold water is an easy way to help your clothes last longer. Plus, it saves energy too!
3. Find the right detergent
Picking the right detergent can make a big difference to maintaining the quality of your knitwear. Opt for something gentle like a detergent made for wool or delicates. Baby shampoo is also a fantastic alternative which cleans knitwear well.
Heavy products can make your knits feel rough or even damage the fibres over time. A mild detergent helps your jumpers stay soft and comfy, just the way you like them. You don’t need to use too much detergent either - just a small amount goes a long way. Keep it simple and your knitwear will thank you.
4. Avoid the dryer
Skip the dryer when it comes to knitwear. The extra heat can shrink, stretch, or misshape your clothes really fast. Place your knit flat on a clean towel to dry naturally. You can speed up the drying process by gently pressing out the water but you should never wring it or twist it.
The drying method preserves the shape of your knits while maintaining their appearance. The process requires extra time but it produces an outcome that makes the effort worthwhile.
5. Store your knitwear properly
When it’s time to put your knitwear away, don’t hang up your items. Hanging can stretch out the shoulders and leave your jumpers looking droopy. Fold your knits neatly instead and keep them in a drawer or on a shelf.
If you’re storing them away for the season, pop them in a breathable bag or a box with some lavender sachets to keep moths away. Taking a little extra care with storage helps your knitwear stay in great shape and ready to wear when the weather cools down again.
6. Remove pilling carefully
One of our top knitwear and cardigan cleaning tips is to invest in a fabric comb or de-pilling tool. These handy little gadgets gently remove those annoying fuzzy balls (called pills) without damaging the fabric, helping your knits look fresh and smooth again.
When removing pilling, make sure to lay your knit flat and use the tool gently. Only go in one direction and try not to press down too hard or rush the process. Focus only on the affected areas and take your time - your knitwear will be back to normal in no time!
Discover Women’s Knitwear
Now that you know the best tips for looking after your knitwear, why not check out some of the latest trends? Refresh your wardrobe and browse the latest knitwear collection at Femme Connection to find the perfect pieces for every occasion.