Soft, flexible, and warm, knitwear is one of the most comforting textures in a wardrobe, but it requires a gentle hand. The better you care for your knits, the longer they will last and the better they’ll feel each time you wear them. From lightweight summer knits to dense winter wool, this guide will help you build a care routine rooted in longevity.
WASHING
LESS IS MORE
Good knitwear doesn’t need frequent washing. Wool naturally resists bacteria and odor. And in fact, washing too often can weaken the fibers and shorten the life of your garment.
In between washes: Airing your knits out or giving them a gentle steam can help freshen them up. And a soft garment brush can remove dust and dirt that may dull the appearance of wool fabrics.
Hand-wash: Use cold water and a recommended amount of a go-to sweater shampoo, gentle detergent, or baby shampoo. Soak for half an hour (or more) with gentle rotations. Gently wring the piece without twisting too much before drying.
Machine-wash: If the care label allows, turn inside out and place in a delicate bag. Use a wool, delicate, or hand-wash program that applies cold water and no spin. Gently wring out before drying if there is significant water weight when finished.
Avoid: + Warm/hot water → Will shrink your garment + Spin → Will agitate and cause friction, weakening the fibers
DRYING
ALWAYS FLAT
Proper drying is important for preserving shape and protecting fibers from damage and stretch.
Post-wash: Lay your knit on a clean towel. With the item in its original shape, roll it up in the towel (like a sleeping bag) and gently press to remove excess water.
Dry: Lay your knit either on a clean towel or flat on a drying rack. If the fibers are tightened up, gently pull and form the garment to shape before leaving to dry.
Post-drying: If there are wrinkles, use a steamer to remove them. If you’re noticing any shrinkage or the garment looks misshapen, soak your knit in cold water and gently hand-stretch it again before drying.
Avoid: + Direct sunlight, radiators and other heat sources → These can yellow, shrink or damage woolens. + Hanging wet knits → will overstretch the piece.
PILLING
NATURAL & MANAGEABLE
Pilling is a normal part of wearing knitwear, especially for soft, natural fibers. They are not defects, but signs of wear.
Why: Often due to friction, fibers that have broken apart form small balls of fabric on a garment’s surface.
Removal: Use a sweater comb, fabric stone, or electric sweater shaver. And follow with a gentle garment brush to remove additional fibers and maintain a smooth finish.
Prevention: Wash your garments inside out and avoid overloading your machine. Rest your garment between wears and be mindful of potential friction through other garments or accessories in contact with your knit.
Avoid: + Tape or strong adhesives → Can pull/tear fibers and make pilling worse overtime
STORAGE
REST AND PROTECT
How you store knitwear makes a lasting difference. We propose a few simple actions:
- Always fold your knits. Hanging stretches the shape.
- Store flat and loosely folded to avoid creases.
- Never fold or put away immediately after wearing, simply let the fabric breathe.
- For seasonal storage, always wash first. Even a single wear can leave oils and odors that attract moths.
If we are talking about long-term storage, it’s best to do the following:
- Store in a breathable cotton bag or pillowcase.
- Avoid plastic containers, which trap moisture.
- Add cedar balls, lavender sachets, or a few drops of cedar oil to deter pests.
- Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
REPAIR
A SIGN OF CARE
Small holes, pulled threads, and loose seams are signs of use, not flaws. They’re reminders that this garment has lived with you. Mend them early to prevent further damage and to extend the garment’s life.
Unravelled seam: If a seam starts to unravel, knot the loose thread instead of pulling it. The seam can then be re-stitched using a needle or sewing machine.
Prevention & repair: Many repairs can be done at home with basic tools or taken to a trusted tailor.
Avoid: + Pulling or stretching small holes, pulled threads, or loose seams
Caring for knitwear is not complicated, but it does ask for attention. With a few mindful habits, your favorite sweater can stay in rotation for years. And that’s what it’s all about—building a wardrobe you can return to again and again. A little care goes a long way. We hope this guide helps you feel more connected to your garments and encourages you to care for them in a slower, more considered way. For any questions, visit us in person or reach out directly.
