Would you believe us if we said we also struggle with caring for our sweaters? Because we totally do. And trust us, this worry isn’t unique to you. Every fashion lover (and even the experts) has faced the battle of maintaining those cozy knits that make winter outfits look effortlessly chic. Whenever the temperature drops, our go-to piece is usually a sweater, but as comfy as they are, knitwear is high-maintenance. It demands a bit of love and attention to stay in great shape. One wrong move, like tossing it in the washer or hanging it carelessly, and you might just shorten its life.
But don’t panic. With the right care hacks, you can make your sweaters last for seasons, keeping them soft, stylish, and looking brand new. So if you’re ready to give your favorite knit the royal treatment it deserves, here are the best knitwear care hacks you absolutely need to know.
Avoid Overwashing And Machine Washing
According to British Vogue, “most of us are over-washing our knitwear by a significant amount, meaning it gets worn down more quickly.” And we couldn’t agree more. Washing your sweater after every wear does way more harm than good. Instead, limit washing to once at the end of the season or only when it’s absolutely necessary.
If hygiene is your concern, here’s a smarter option. Spot-clean by using a gentle detergent and lightly cleaning under the arms or any stained area. It keeps your knit fresh without a full wash.
When it’s finally time to wash, please resist the urge to throw it in the washing machine. The spinning and tumbling cause shrinkage and fiber damage. The best way to clean your sweater is by handwashing it gently. Use lukewarm water (never hot) and a mild detergent, then carefully swish it around without stretching the fabric. Your sweater will thank you by staying in shape longer.
Delicately Dry Your Sweaters
Let’s be real, how you dry your sweater matters just as much as how you wash it. Sweaters don’t forgive bad handling, and drying them the wrong way is one of the quickest ways to ruin their shape.
Whatever you do, don’t hang your sweater to dry. Hanging causes the fabric to stretch out and lose its structure. Instead, lay it flat on a clean towel, press gently to remove excess water, then roll the towel up with the sweater inside to absorb even more moisture.
Once that’s done, lay your sweater flat to air dry on a drying rack or clean surface. This way, it retains its original shape and texture without sagging. It might take a bit longer, but patience pays off when you pull it out looking brand new.
Fold Instead Of Hanging Your Sweaters
Now that your sweater is clean and dry, the next challenge is storage. Many people make the mistake of hanging their sweaters, which may seem convenient, but leads to stretching. Over time, the shoulders lose shape, and the knit droops in places you can’t fix.
The best way to store sweaters is by folding them neatly. Stack them in an airtight bag or container and add a cedar block or sachet to keep them fresh and moth-free. Those little pests have a habit of ruining good clothes, and cedar naturally repels them without leaving a strong scent.
If you’re short on space, fold them loosely to allow air circulation. It’s a simple wardrobe hack that helps your knits breathe and last longer.
Don’t Pile On KnitWears
You know those tiny fuzzy balls that pop up on your sweaters? They’re called pills, and nothing kills a polished look faster. Pilling happens because of friction, either from washing or wearing your knits frequently. But don’t stress, it’s fixable.
First rule, never pick or pull them off with your fingers. That only damages the fibers and makes things worse. Instead, invest in a good fabric shaver or a sweater comb. These tools gently remove the fuzz without harming the material. With just a few swipes, your sweater will look smooth, refreshed, and practically new again.
You can also minimize future pilling by turning your sweaters inside out before washing and wearing softer fabrics underneath to reduce friction.
Try Not To Wear The Same Sweater Every Day
We all have that one perfect sweater we could wear every day. But constant use wears down even the most luxurious knits faster than you’d expect. Knit fibers need a little rest between wears to regain their shape and bounce.
Try rotating your sweaters throughout the week instead of wearing the same one repeatedly. It’s like giving them a breather, and in return, they stay in better condition for years. Not to mention, rotating pieces also lets you experiment with different styles and layers, a win-win for your wardrobe and your creativity.
Handle Your Knitwear With Extra Care During Storage
When sweater season ends, proper storage is crucial if you want to see them in good condition next winter. First, make sure they’re completely dry before storing them to prevent mold or musty smells. Then, fold and place them in airtight containers or fabric garment bags.
You can also toss in some lavender sachets or cedar chips to keep moths away while leaving a fresh scent. Avoid plastic bags for long-term storage as they trap moisture and can make your sweaters smell stale. Breathable storage options always work best.
Keeping your sweaters looking new is all about intentionality. A little care and patience go a long way. Once you start treating your knitwear like the fashion investment it truly is, you’ll notice how it rewards you by lasting longer, feeling softer, and staying stylish season after season.
So go ahead and give your cozy knits some love. With these care hacks, every time you pull out your sweater, it’ll feel as fresh as the day you bought it.
