How to Wash & Care for Wool, Knitwear & Warm Fabrics
Proper care helps knitwear keep its shape, softness, and appearance for longer. Use this guide for wool, merino, cashmere, alpaca, cotton knits, acrylic, polyester, and other warm knitted fabrics.
Important: Always check the care label on your garment first. Product-specific instructions take priority over the general guidance below.
Quick Care Guide
Follow the instructions made for that specific garment.
Use cold or cool water, generally no warmer than 30°C / 86°F when the label allows washing.
Choose a gentle detergent suitable for delicate or wool garments.
Press out excess water gently to protect the knit structure.
Dry away from direct heat and strong sunlight unless the label says otherwise.
Keep clean, fully dry knitwear folded rather than hanging for long periods.
How to Wash Knitwear
- Read the label. Some pieces are hand-wash only, while others can use a wool or delicate machine cycle. A few materials may require professional cleaning.
- Turn the garment inside out when practical and fasten buttons or zippers to reduce surface friction.
- Use cool water. If machine washing is permitted, choose a wool/delicate cycle and a low spin speed.
- Use a small amount of mild detergent. For wool and animal-fiber knits, choose a detergent intended for wool or delicates.
- Avoid bleach and high heat. Avoid fabric softener unless the garment label specifically permits it.
- Do not over-soak or heavily agitate. Friction, heat, and aggressive handling can affect shape and surface texture.
Drying: The Step That Protects Shape
After washing, do not wring or twist the garment. Gently press out water. For very wet knitwear, place it on a clean towel, roll the towel loosely, and press to absorb excess moisture. Reshape the garment to its original dimensions and dry it flat on a clean, dry surface with good air circulation.
Avoid radiators, heaters, and high-temperature tumble drying unless the care label specifically allows tumble drying. Hanging heavy wet knitwear can stretch shoulders and length.
Care by Material
Wool & Merino Wool
Use a wool-safe detergent and cool water. Choose hand washing or a wool/delicate cycle only when the label permits it. Keep agitation and spin gentle, then reshape and dry flat.
Cashmere & Alpaca
These soft animal fibers benefit from minimal friction and agitation. Hand washing is often the gentlest option when the label allows washing. Handle carefully while wet and dry flat.
Cotton Knitwear
Cotton knits can become heavier when wet and may lose shape if stretched. Use a gentle cool wash when permitted, then reshape carefully and dry according to the label.
Acrylic, Polyester & Warm Blends
Many synthetic and blended knits tolerate a gentle machine cycle, but high heat can still damage fibers, texture, or shape. Use a cool gentle wash, low spin, and follow the label for drying.
How to Reduce Pilling
Pilling can occur naturally where knitted fibers rub against each other or against bags, coats, seats, and other surfaces. Do not pull pills by hand. Instead, lay the garment flat and use a sweater comb or fabric shaver gently, without pressing hard or repeatedly working the same area.
Refreshing Between Washes
Knitwear does not always need a full wash after every wear. Airing the garment can help keep it fresh and reduce unnecessary washing. Spot-clean small marks carefully when appropriate. If using steam, keep a safe distance and use it only when compatible with the garment's care label.
How to Store Warm Knitwear
- Store garments only when they are clean and completely dry.
- Fold knitwear to help prevent stretching at the shoulders.
- Keep items in a clean, dry, breathable storage area.
- Avoid compressing delicate knits under heavy garments for long periods.
- Before seasonal storage, remove stains and make sure the item is fully dry.
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