How to Care for Delicate Knitwear: Wool, Cashmere and Mohair

Caring for delicate knitwear, like wool, cashmere, and mohair, can seem tricky, but it’s all about following a few key best practices.

Hand washing or using the gentle cycle with cold water is the safest option for most knitwear. Avoid wringing or stretching your garments—instead, gently press out excess water and lay them flat to dry.

Storing knitwear properly is just as important—fold, don’t hang, to avoid stretching the fibers.

And, to prevent pilling, gently remove fuzz using a fabric comb or depiller. By following these simple steps, you’ll keep your wool, cashmere, and mohair looking luxurious for years to come.

Common issues with delicate knits

Delicate knitwear can be prone to several issues if not properly cared for. Understanding these common problems will help you avoid damaging your favorite garments:

Pilling

Little balls of fibers that form on the surface of knitwear are known as pilling. This is especially common with wool and cashmere.

Pilling occurs when fibers rub against one another, leading to the loosening of fabric strands.

Stretching

Knits can easily lose their shape when hung for long periods or mishandled during washing.

This issue affects wool, cashmere, and mohair garments, as these fibers have a natural elasticity.

Snags and holes

Due to the loose weave of most delicate knits, they are vulnerable to snags and tears, which can easily lead to holes if not addressed promptly.

Shrinking

One of the biggest concerns with mohair, wool, and cashmere is shrinkage.

Using hot water or improper drying methods can cause fibers to tighten, leading to a garment that's several sizes smaller.

Moth damage

Moths are a common issue for natural fibers like wool and cashmere. The larvae of these insects can feed on the fibers, leaving unsightly holes in your knitwear.

Here are some tips to protect your knitwear from moths:

• Cedar and lavender: Cedar blocks or lavender sachets are natural deterrents for moths. Place them in your drawers or storage boxes to keep moths away from your knits.
• Keep knitwear clean: Moths are attracted to stains, sweat, and food particles. Always make sure your knitwear is clean before storing it for long periods.
• Use airtight storage: If you plan to store your knits for an extended time, place them in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to protect them from moths and other pests.

By taking these precautions, you can protect your delicate knitwear from moth damage and prolong the life of your garments.

Proper washing methods

Knowing how to wash delicate knits properly is crucial to keeping them in good condition. While dry cleaning is a safe option, it’s not always necessary. Here's how to wash wool, cashmere, and mohair at home:

Hand washing

The safest method for most delicate knitwear is hand washing. Use cold or lukewarm water and a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid regular laundry detergent, as it can be too harsh and strip away the natural oils that preserve softness, particularly in cashmere and wool. Gently submerge the garment and swish it around for a few minutes.

Machine washing

If you must use a washing machine, always select the delicate cycle and use cold water. Place your knitwear inside a mesh bag to protect it from friction and minimize the risk of pilling. This also reduces the chances of your garment stretching during the spin cycle. The benefits of using mesh bags for delicate clothing items are immense—they add a protective layer while still allowing the fabric to get clean.

Drying

Never wring out delicate knits, as this can cause stretching. Instead, gently press out the water and roll the garment in a clean towel to absorb excess moisture. Lay the item flat on another towel to air dry. Never hang wool, cashmere, or mohair garments to dry, as this can cause them to stretch or lose shape.

Does mohair shrink?

Mohair, while incredibly warm and soft, is prone to shrinking if exposed to high heat. Always avoid hot water and high dryer settings when caring for mohair.

Stick to air-drying on a flat surface to prevent shrinkage.

Storing knits properly

Proper storage is key to maintaining the integrity of your delicate knitwear. Here’s how you can store them to ensure they stay in great condition:

• Folding instead of hanging: Always fold wool, cashmere, and mohair garments rather than hanging them. Hanging knits can cause them to stretch out of shape due to their natural elasticity.
• Use cedar blocks or sachets: Moths are a major threat to wool and cashmere, as they feed on natural fibers. Placing cedar blocks and sachets in your storage space can repel moths and keep your garments safe. Alternatively, use lavender sachets, which are also natural moth repellents.
• Storing seasonal items: For seasonal storage, use breathable cotton bags to store your knits, as this will protect them from dust and pests. You can also tuck a fabric softener sheet into the storage container to maintain the freshness of stored blankets and quilts, ensuring that everything smells fresh when you bring it out the next season.