You’re Caring for Your Knitwear All Wrong — Follow These 8 Expert Rules to Keep It Looking New
As the temperatures drop and wardrobes shift to warm and cosy clothing, many people will soon be reaching for their favourite wool and knitted jumpers.
However, according to Jess Harris, Head of Product Technology at Moss, most people wash, dry and store their knitwear all wrong – causing damage and shortening the clothing’s lifespan.
“High quality knitwear is an investment, but the wrong care can lead to shrinking, stretching, or even moth damage”, says Jess. “By following a few simple rules, you can keep your knitwear looking as good as new for years.”
Why does knitwear shrink and damage easily?
“Knitwear is naturally more delicate than woven fabrics due to its looped construction, which gives it softness and stretch but also makes it prone to shrinkage and damage if not cared for correctly,” explains Jess. “Natural fibres such as wool or cashmere can contract in heat, while the weight of the garment when wet can cause it to stretch or lose shape.”
Here are eight expert approved rules to follow to retain your knitwear’s quality:
1. Always read the care label
“It’s important to always look and follow the instructions on the care label of your clothing as it helps to increase the longevity.
“If it says to wash them by hand, you should avoid using the washing machine. Some wool blends can be washed in a machine but it’s best to do this on a lower temperature.”
2. Avoid bleach and heat
“Bleach and heat can all damage your knitwear, so these are usually best avoided. Although wool doesn’t wrinkle as much as other types of material such as cotton, you might still want to get some creases out. Steaming without direct heat is the best way to do this, specifically if the care label says, ‘no ironing’.”
“Lambswool, for example, should always be hand-washed to keep the fabric soft. Machine washing can make it feel rough and pill.”
“On the other hand, merino wool can often be machine-washed. However, always choose a cool cycle as using hot water can make the fibres in the wool shrink. Furthermore, always use a mild detergent and skip the bleach or fabric softener as this can damage the wool fibres.”
3. Avoid rubbing, wringing and twisting when hand washing
“To hand wash wool, begin by filling a basin or sink with lukewarm water. Add a small amount of gentle detergent designed for delicate materials, mixing it through to create a soapy solution.
“When washing, avoid rubbing, wringing, or twisting the fabric, as this can cause felting. Instead, gently work in the solution by hand, pressing it instead of squeezing it in. 2-3 minutes is usually enough for light soiling, while up to 5 minutes may be required for heavier soil.
“To finish, rinse the wool through with lukewarm water, pressing it gently until all excess soap is removed.”
4. Dry your items flat
“How you dry your knitwear makes a big difference to its longevity. With delicate knitwear, never hang to dry. It’s always best to dry flat to avoid stretching the fabric and fibres. Lay it on top of a dry towel if you’re worried about your table or worktop getting wet.”
5. Avoid hangers and store folded
“Hanging knitwear can cause it to stretch out of shape, so always avoid using a hanger once the garment is dry. Instead, fold your knitwear carefully and store in a drawer or on shelves to keep them looking their best.”
6. Deal with pilling and bumps carefully
“We all know how annoying it can be when you see a bobble in your favourite jumper. Rest assured though as it can be easily fixed. Carefully use a lint remover to get rid of any pilling or bumps on the material. Be careful with loose threads or pulls too; it’s usually best to cut them or pull any loops back through from the inside.”
7. Always clean after every wear before storing
“Even if your favourite jumper looks clean after wearing it, it’s essential that you give it a clean. Our bodies can leave proteins on the fabric which attracts pests like moths. If your dirty knitwear is sitting in spaces like wardrobes, it may attract pests as their larvae love to eat natural fibres. No one wants to pick out their best jumper only to find it’s full of holes.”
8. Use scented sachets to keep moths at bay
“Moths are attracted to natural fibres like wool and cashmere, because their larvae eat the protein keratin found in these materials, which serves as their primary food source.
“That’s why it’s so important to clean your knitwear before putting it back in your wardrobe. To add extra protection and to keep these pests away, add scented sachets like lavender and cedarwood. Make sure to replace the sachets every couple of months to keep them effective.”
“Investing in quality knitwear means investing in its care,” Jess adds. “With the right cleaning and storage, you’ll avoid damage and keep your clothing staples looking their best.”
Top image: Monsoon x Sarah Corbett-Winder Check Gilet £99
