How to Wash and Care for Knitwear So It Lasts

A favourite jumper can become a wardrobe staple for years, or lose its shape after a handful of washes. The difference usually comes down to care. Knitwear is made of loops of yarn that can stretch, felt or pill if they are treated roughly. As the heaviest knitwear season comes to an end, it is a good moment to give your jumpers and cardigans some attention before you put them away.

Wash less, and wash gently

Knitwear rarely needs washing after every wear. Airing a jumper overnight is often enough to freshen it up, and washing less helps fibres last longer. When it is time to wash:

• Check the care label first. It tells you whether an item can go in the machine, needs hand washing or should be dry cleaned. Follow it, especially for wool, cashmere and blends.
• Turn items inside out. This protects the outside surface and reduces pilling.
• Use cool water and a gentle detergent. A detergent made for wool or delicates is kinder to fibres than a standard one.
• Choose a wool or delicate cycle. If you machine wash, use a low spin. A mesh laundry bag adds extra protection.
• Hand wash with care. Soak the jumper briefly and squeeze the water through it gently. Avoid rubbing, twisting or wringing, which can felt wool and stretch the knit.

Drying without stretching or shrinking

Drying is where most knitwear is ruined. Heat can shrink natural fibres, and hanging a wet jumper lets the weight of the water pull it out of shape.

1. Press out excess water by rolling the jumper in a clean, dry towel.
2. Lay it flat on a fresh towel or a drying rack.
3. Gently ease it back into shape, smoothing the sleeves, hem and cuffs.
4. Let it dry away from radiators and direct sunlight.
5. Keep knitwear out of the tumble dryer unless the label clearly says it is safe.

Dealing with pilling

Small bobbles, or pills, form where fabric rubs, such as under the arms and on the sides. They are normal, even on good quality knitwear, and do not mean an item is worn out. Remove them carefully with a fabric shaver or a knitwear comb, working lightly over a flat surface. Washing items inside out and avoiding rough bags or straps rubbing against your jumper helps prevent new pills from forming.

Chunky textures like cable knits, such as this grey cable knit jumper, look best when the pattern is kept crisp, so they are worth that little extra care.

Storing knitwear between seasons

Always fold knitwear rather than hanging it. Hangers stretch the shoulders over time and leave bumps that are hard to remove. When you put jumpers away for the warmer months:

• Make sure everything is clean before storing, as moths are attracted to worn, unwashed fibres.
• Store items folded in a breathable cotton bag or a box in a cool, dry place.
• Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets if you like a natural moth deterrent.
• Avoid packing knitwear too tightly, which causes deep creases.

With gentle washing, careful drying and good storage, your knitwear will stay soft and keep its shape for many winters to come. Looking to add something new for next season? Browse our jumpers.