CARE FOR YOUR KNITWEAR WITH THOUGHTFULNESS

Knitwear is a wardrobe essential all year round. From soft knitted jumpers that keep you warm on chilly autumn and winter days to lightweight cardigans that are perfect for layering over a blouse in spring. With the right care, your favourites can retain their softness, shape and beautiful appearance.

But how do you wash a knitted jumper properly, and when is professional cleaning necessary? Here’s a simple guide to washing, drying, storing and caring for knitwear, so you can keep your favourite styles looking their best.

WHY DOES KNITWEAR PILL – AND HOW TO PREVENT IT?

Pilling on knitwear is completely normal and usually occurs when fibres are exposed to friction during wear or washing. Particularly soft fabrics can develop small balls of fibres on the surface, for example under the arms or where a bag rubs against the clothing.

You can reduce the risk by washing gently, turning your knitwear inside out and avoiding unnecessary friction. If pilling has already appeared, you can carefully remove it with a wool comb or a fabric shaver suitable for the material. Always test on a less visible area first.

HOW TO WASH KNITWEAR PROPERLY – WITH AND WITHOUT WOOL

Washing knitwear requires a little extra care, as different fabrics react differently to water, temperature and movement. Always start by checking the care label. Some knitted jumpers can be machine washed, while others require hand washing or professional cleaning.

KNITWEAR WITH WOOL OR NATURAL FIBRES

• Follow the care instructions and only use a wool cycle if the garment is suitable for machine washing.

• Choose a detergent suitable for wool when required by the fabric.

• Avoid intensive spinning and wringing out your knitwear.

• Gently press out excess water and leave the garment to dry flat.

KNITWEAR WITHOUT WOOL (E.G. VISCOSE, POLYESTER AND ACRYLIC)

• Wash at the temperature recommended on the care label.

• Turn your knitwear inside out to reduce friction.

• Use a gentle wash cycle when suitable for the garment.

• Dry according to the care instructions and avoid unnecessary heat.

WHEN SHOULD A KNITTED JUMPER BE PROFESSIONALLY CLEANED?

Professional cleaning may be necessary when the care label specifies it or when the fabric requires special treatment. This is particularly relevant for certain delicate wool fabrics and knitwear with special details.

If you're unsure how to clean a knitted jumper, always check the garment's care label first. Professional cleaning isn't automatically necessary if your knitwear can be cared for gently at home.

HAS YOUR KNITWEAR SHRUNK? HOW TO SAVE SHRUNKEN WOOL

A wool jumper can shrink if exposed to the wrong temperature or too much movement during washing. Once the fibres have become felted, restoring the original size can be difficult or impossible.

In some cases, gentle treatment may help reshape the knitwear, but the result depends on the fabric and how much it has shrunk. Read our guide before attempting to treat your wool jumper.

READ HOW TO FIX SHRUNKEN WOOL HERE

CARE TIPS – KEEP YOUR FAVORITES LONGER

Good knitwear care is about more than just washing. With a few simple habits, you can help your knitted jumpers and cardigans maintain their shape and soft texture.

• Air your knitwear between wears when the fabric and circumstances allow.

• Store knitwear folded on a shelf rather than hanging it on a hanger.

• Gently remove pilling with a tool suitable for the fabric.

• Make sure your knitwear is completely dry before putting it away.

• Give your favourite knitted pieces a break between wears.

As autumn approaches, it's a good idea to check your knitwear collection and make sure your favourites are clean and ready for the cooler days ahead.

CARE FOR YOUR KNITWEAR SO IT LASTS LONGER

With proper washing, gentle cleaning and good care habits, your favourite knitwear can maintain its beautiful appearance. Explore our collection of soft knitted jumpers and versatile cardigans, and discover new wardrobe favourites.