Preserve your favorite sweaters: Expert tips on washing and maintaining your woolen and synthetic knits
The question often arises: to wash in a washing machine, or by hand? This is not a straightforward answer. Every owner of woolen sweaters should pay attention to the manufacturer's information on the sweater's tag, but there's more to consider during the washing process. Several additional rules also play a significant role.
2:48 PM EST, December 18, 2023
What is the best way to wash sweaters?
Once you've digested all the information from the tag, you can begin. If the sweater is machine-washable, bear in mind the correct temperature. Typically, this sits between 86 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the sweater won't be felt. Furthermore, don't hesitate to use the washing machine. It will save you a substantial amount of time.
Regardless, caution never hurts when dealing with a sweater made of natural materials, such as wool. Proper care will ensure your sweater's longevity. On the other hand, sweaters made of synthetic materials require a different care method, as they tend to be of lower quality and often don't survive more than one season.
If you're planning to wash a sweater and are concerned about its condition post-washing, heed these important rules. They will ensure your clothing stays clean and fresh with minimal damage to the fabric. Before placing a woolen sweater in a washing machine, it should be turned inside out and put into a large fabric bag. Underwear bags won't suffice; the sweater should not be stuffed into them forcefully.
The correct detergents make a difference too. Regular laundry powder, added directly to the washing machine drawer, can do your sweater more harm than good. A safer alternative is to use cleaning agents specifically designed for wool, as these will protect the delicate material of your sweater.
If you want to maintain the softness of your wool, add a tablespoon of vinegar to the final rinse. If you don't have vinegar available, citric acid or glycerin can be used as suitable alternatives. The resulting effect will pleasantly surprise you.
Choosing the appropriate washing program is another crucial aspect. Most washing machines offer a program specifically for woolen fabrics. However, if such a setting isn't available, adjust the parameters to a low temperature, slow rotations, and a gentle spin cycle. Post-wash, any excess water should be removed from the sweater. This can be achieved by lightly pressing the item between two towels.
Drying the sweater can also be a challenge for many. Instead of hanging it to dry, it's better to lay the sweater flat on a dry towel to retain its shape. Shaking the sweater intermittently as it dries will allow the threads to lay properly.
