Designer knitwear can offer the perfect finishing touch to an outfit yet it can also be one of the trickiest pieces to look after. Knitwear can be prone to stretching, shrinking, pilling and felting if not cleaned correctly. It’s important to learn how best to care for your luxury knits to keep them looking and feeling their best.
Knitwear can be made in a variety of different fabrics. As a general rule, any wool or cashmere garments should either be professionally cleaned or carefully hand-washed. Cotton and synthetic items can usually be machine washed with ease. It is very important to always check the care label before washing.
The following tips should help to keep your knitwear looking its best for longer.
General Knitwear Care Instructions:
- Never tumble-dry your knits – this will cause shrinkage, pilling and felting.
- Don’t wash your knits unnecessarily often as this can cause distortion and pilling.
- Always store your knitwear folded, not on a hanger as this can misshape the item.
Wool and Cashmere
Most types of wool such as lamb’s wool, merino and cashmere can be hand washed. When doing so always use warm water and a specialist detergent, very hot water can damage the fibres in the material. Don’t scrunch, wring or stretch the fabric; squeeze gently and rinse well. Dry as soon as possible after washing to prevent odours forming. Lay the garment flat, reshape while it’s still damp and keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources. If the care label advocates ironing the item use a cool setting with plenty of steam or a damp cloth layered above. Lift and press the iron rather than dragging it for best results.
Cotton
Many cotton knits can be machine washed at 30°. Use a mild detergent and spin on a long cycle. To dry follow the same instructions as given for wool and cashmere.
Synthetics
There are many different types of synthetic fabrics so it’s always best to check the label for care instructions. Most will be machine washable though as with all knits dry flat and reshape whilst damp.
Please note: This care guide is for general advice only – always check the care instructions on your garment before cleaning.
