How to wash and dry knitwear without ruining it
Most knitwear is ruined in the wash, not in the wearing. Heat and agitation shrink wool, wringing stretches it, and a hot radiator finishes the job. The fix is simple and takes ten minutes.
Wash less
Wool and merino resist odour. Air a sweater or beanie overnight and it usually comes back fresh. Wash when it's actually dirty, not after every wear.
Hand wash wool and merino
- Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water and a small amount of wool wash.
- Turn the piece inside out and press it under the water. Let it soak for 10 minutes.
- Squeeze gently through the water. Don't rub or twist.
- Rinse in cool water at the same temperature.
Dry flat
Press the water out by rolling the piece in a towel, then lay it flat on a dry towel and reshape it. Dry it away from radiators and direct sun. Never hang a wet sweater: the weight of the water stretches the shoulders.
Cotton
Cotton beanies and caps are more forgiving. Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle, reshape and dry flat. Skip the tumble dryer.
Caps
Spot clean corduroy and twill caps with a damp cloth and mild soap, then air dry on a rounded form, like a bowl, so the crown keeps its shape.
Pilling
Soft fibers pill where they rub, under the arms and at the cuffs. It's normal and it slows down after the first few wears. Remove pills with a fabric comb or sweater shaver; don't pull them.
Storing
Fold knits; don't hang them. Store them clean, because moths go for worn wool. A cedar block in the drawer helps.
