To prevent knitwear from stretching and distortion, always wash it by hand or on a delicate cycle with cold water, and avoid wringing or twisting the fabric. Always dry knitwear flat to maintain its shape, and store it folded in breathable containers to prevent stretching.
Using gentle detergents and steaming instead of ironing will further preserve the fibers, ensuring your knitwear stays in perfect condition for years to come.
Why does knitwear stretch over time?
Knitwear is made from interlocking loops of yarn that give the fabric its stretch and softness. However, these loops can easily become misshapen through regular wear and improper care. Factors such as gravity (when hanging), weight of the fabric, and water retention can all contribute to stretching over time. Delicate fibers like wool, cashmere, and mohair are particularly vulnerable, making it essential to use the correct washing, drying, and storage techniques.
Additionally, heavy wear and improper storage can lead to distortion. Over time, especially with natural fibers, these materials can stretch under their own weight. Understanding why this happens can help you take better preventive measures, especially when transitioning between seasons and storing items like blankets and quilts, which face similar challenges.
Wash knitwear by hand or use a delicate cycle
When it comes to cleaning your knitwear, nothing beats hand washing. Hand washing allows you to gently clean delicate fibers without subjecting them to the harsh agitation of a washing machine. Use cool water and a mild detergent to preserve the integrity of the fibers.
If hand washing isn’t an option, you can use your machine’s delicate or wool cycle with a protective mesh laundry bag (we’ll cover this in more detail later).
The key is to minimize rough handling. Washing machines, especially in standard cycles, can cause too much agitation, which stresses the fibers, leading to potential stretching. For items like cashmere and wool, the delicate cycle mimics the gentleness of hand washing while still providing a thorough clean.
Always use cold water for washing
Hot water can cause fibers to swell and lose their elasticity, especially in wool and cashmere. Over time, repeated exposure to hot water will weaken the fibers and increase the likelihood of stretching or shrinking. Cold water, on the other hand, helps maintain the structure of the fibers while still effectively cleaning the garment.
Not only does cold water help protect the fibers, but it also prevents color bleeding, which is especially important for dyed knitwear.
Proper water temperature also extends the life of garments beyond just knitwear. Just as in reviving old clothes through repairs and upcycling, careful treatment during washing can make all the difference in how long an item lasts.
Avoid wringing or twisting your knitwear
One of the biggest mistakes people make when washing knitwear is wringing out the water. Wringing or twisting your knitwear puts unnecessary stress on the fibers and causes them to stretch, especially when they are wet and more vulnerable. Instead, after rinsing, gently press the water out of the fabric by laying the garment flat on a clean towel. Roll the towel and the knitwear together, applying light pressure to remove excess water.
By avoiding aggressive handling, you help maintain the natural elasticity of the fabric. This step is crucial for keeping the integrity of the yarn loops intact, minimizing the risk of long-term distortion.
Dry your knitwear flat to preserve its shape
Once you’ve removed the excess water, lay your knitwear flat on a dry towel or drying rack. Reshape the garment while it’s still damp to ensure it dries in its original form.
Avoid hanging knitwear to dry, as this causes the fabric to stretch under its own weight, leading to permanent distortion.
This method of flat drying is particularly important for heavier knitwear, such as wool sweaters, that can become misshapen when hung. Allowing the fabric to dry naturally and evenly helps the fibers retain their structure.
Store knitwear folded, never hang it
Proper storage is just as important as the washing and drying process. Knitwear should always be folded and stored in breathable containers to prevent it from stretching while not in use. Hanging knitwear for long periods causes the weight of the garment to pull at the fibers, particularly in the shoulder areas, leading to unsightly bulges and stretching.
When storing delicate items like cashmere or wool, use breathable fabric bags or drawers to keep your knitwear fresh and dust-free. Avoid plastic storage, as it can trap moisture, leading to mildew. For long-term storage, such as in the off-season, consider incorporating natural deodorizers to maintain freshness and prevent pests from damaging the fibers.
Use gentle detergents designed for delicate fabrics
Choosing the right detergent is vital for preserving your knitwear. Harsh detergents with strong chemicals can weaken fibers, strip natural oils, and contribute to stretching. Look for detergents specifically designed for wool, cashmere, or delicate fabrics, as these are formulated to clean without causing damage.
These gentle detergents are usually enzyme-free and pH-balanced, making them ideal for protecting the integrity of the fabric.
Using them consistently will not only prevent stretching but also help maintain the softness and texture of your knitwear.
Avoid over-washing to preserve fibers
Knitwear, especially wool and cashmere, doesn’t need to be washed after every wear. Over-washing can break down fibers, causing them to lose elasticity and strength over time. Unless your knitwear is visibly dirty or has absorbed strong odors, you can usually get away with wearing it a few times before needing to clean it.
To keep knitwear fresh between washes, consider airing it out or using a fabric refresher. This practice is particularly helpful in preserving the delicate fibers of more luxurious knits.
Use mesh bags for extra protection in the wash
When machine-washing knitwear, use a mesh laundry bag to protect the fabric from being snagged or overstretched. Mesh bags provide a barrier between the garment and the washing machine’s drum, reducing friction and agitation. This extra layer of protection is especially helpful for delicate fabrics like wool or mohair, which can easily lose shape when exposed to vigorous washing cycles.
Place your knitwear in a mesh bag, zip it closed, and set your machine to the gentle cycle. This way, even in the washing machine, your knitwear gets the protection it needs.
Refresh knitwear with steam, not an iron
Knitwear is particularly vulnerable to heat, so it’s best to avoid using an iron directly on your garments. Instead, use a steamer to refresh your knitwear and remove wrinkles. Steam helps relax the fibers, eliminating any creases without applying direct heat that could lead to damage.
Additionally, steaming is a great way to rejuvenate your knitwear between washes, as it can freshen up the fabric without exposing it to water or detergent. Just as you would revive old clothes by repairing and refreshing them, using a steamer on knitwear can breathe new life into your pieces without the risks associated with ironing.
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