Caring for Your Knitwear
Make Loved Pieces Last
In a world of fleeting trends, there is a quiet luxury in owning pieces that are made to last. A beautifully crafted sweater, a soft-spun cardigan, or a favorite knit throw are more than just objects; they are companions through the seasons.### Caring for Your Knitwear: Make Loved Pieces Last
In a world of fleeting trends, there is a quiet luxury in owning pieces that are made to last. A beautifully crafted sweater, a soft-spun cardigan, or a favorite knit throw are more than just objects; they are companions through the seasons. These are the items we reach for on a cool morning, wrap ourselves in for a quiet evening, and rely on for effortless comfort and style.
Investing in fewer, better pieces is a cornerstone of a considered wardrobe. It is a philosophy that values quality over quantity and timelessness over trend. But this approach comes with a gentle responsibility: to care for these loved items so they can be enjoyed for years, not just a single season. Proper knitwear care is not complicated or time-consuming. It is a simple, mindful practice that preserves the softness, shape, and beauty of your favorite garments, ensuring they remain a cherished part of your life.
This guide offers a calm, practical approach to knitwear care, from washing and drying to storing your pieces with intention.
Understanding the Fibers
The first step in proper care is knowing what your knitwear is made of. Different fibers have different needs, and a quick glance at the care tag can tell you everything you need to know.
Wool: A natural, resilient fiber known for its warmth and breathability. Wool is naturally odor-resistant and does not need to be washed after every wear. Often, simply airing it out is enough. It is prone to shrinking in high heat.
Cashmere: The ultimate in softness, cashmere is a delicate fiber that requires a gentle touch. It is exceptionally warm yet lightweight. Like wool, it should be washed sparingly. Its fine fibers can be prone to pilling, which is a normal occurrence.
Cotton: A plant-based fiber that is soft, breathable, and generally more durable than animal fibers. Cotton knits are less likely to shrink or lose their shape, but they can stretch out if not dried properly.
Blends: Many modern knits blend fibers to achieve a specific feel or performance, such as adding a bit of stretch or durability. When caring for a blend, it is always best to follow the most conservative instructions—typically those suited for the most delicate fiber in the mix.
The Gentle Art of Washing
One of the most common mistakes with knitwear is over-washing. Wool and cashmere have natural antimicrobial properties, meaning they stay fresh for a surprisingly long time. Unless your sweater is visibly soiled, washing it after every three to five wears is often sufficient.
Hand Washing: The Safest Method
Hand washing is the kindest way to clean your delicate knits. It may sound laborious, but it is a simple, five-minute process.
Prepare: Fill a clean basin or sink with cool water. Hot water can cause natural fibers to shrink and felt.
Add Detergent: Add a small amount of a pH-neutral, gentle detergent designed for wool or delicates. Swirl the water to create a soft lather. Avoid harsh detergents or fabric softeners, which can coat and damage the fibers.
Soak: Turn your sweater inside out and submerge it in the water. Gently squeeze the suds through the fabric. Let it soak for about 10-15 minutes. There is no need for aggressive rubbing or wringing.
Rinse: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cool water. Gently press the sweater to rinse out the detergent. Repeat until the water runs clear.
Remove Excess Water: Carefully lift the sweater, supporting its weight so it does not stretch. Gently squeeze out as much water as possible. Then, lay it flat on a clean, thick towel. Roll the towel up with the sweater inside, pressing firmly to absorb more moisture.
Machine Washing: For Durable Knits
Some cotton or sturdy blend sweaters can be machine washed. Always check the care label first.
Prepare: Turn the sweater inside out and place it in a mesh laundry bag to protect it from snagging.
Select the Cycle: Choose the delicate, wool, or hand-wash cycle on your machine. Ensure the water temperature is set to cold.
Choose Detergent: Use the same gentle, pH-neutral detergent you would for hand washing.
Spin: Select the lowest spin speed to minimize stretching.
Drying and Reshaping
Never, ever hang a wet sweater. The weight of the water will pull on the fibers, causing the garment to stretch out of shape permanently. The dryer is also off-limits, as the high heat will cause shrinking and felting.
Lay Flat: After gently removing excess water with a towel, lay the sweater on a fresh, dry towel or a flat mesh drying rack.
Reshape: Gently pat and guide the sweater back into its original shape. Align the shoulders, smooth out the sleeves, and ensure the hem is straight.
Dry: Let it air-dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat. This may take 24 to 48 hours. If using a towel, you may want to flip the sweater and replace the towel after a few hours to speed up the process.
Managing Pilling
Pilling—those tiny balls of fiber that appear on the surface—is not a sign of poor quality. It is a natural result of friction, especially in areas like the underarms and sides. Removing them is a simple part of knitwear maintenance.
Use a sweater comb or an electric fabric shaver. Lay the garment on a flat surface and gently glide the tool over the affected areas. This carefully trims away the pills without harming the fabric underneath, leaving your sweater looking fresh and new.
Storing with Care
How you store your knitwear between wears is just as important as how you wash it.
Fold, Don't Hang: Always fold your sweaters. Hanging them, especially heavier knits, can cause the shoulders and neckline to stretch and become misshapen over time.
Give Them Space: Store folded sweaters in a drawer or on a shelf with enough room to breathe. Over-stuffing can crush the fibers and create wrinkles.
Protect from Pests: Moths are attracted to natural fibers. Place cedar blocks or sachets of lavender in your drawers to naturally repel them.
Seasonal Storage: When packing sweaters away for the season, make sure they are clean. Food stains and body oils can attract pests and become set-in over time. Store them in breathable cotton garment bags—never in plastic, which can trap moisture and cause discoloration.
A Simple Care Checklist
Read the care label before you do anything.
Wash sparingly in cool water with a gentle detergent.
Always dry flat and reshape when damp.
Gently de-pill as needed with a sweater comb or shaver.
Fold, never hang, and store in a breathable space.
Caring for your knitwear is a ritual of appreciation. It is a way to honor the craftsmanship of the piece and the comfort it provides. With these simple steps, your favorite sweaters will not only last but will become even softer and more cherished with every passing season.
Explore our Timeless Wardrobe collection of beautiful and long-lasting knitwear to help you cherish your pieces for years to come.