Simple Steps to Maintaining the Shape of Your Knitwear
If you’re a fan of cozy knitted sweaters, cardigans, and other knitwear, you know how important it is to take good care of them. Whether you’ve bought them from a high-end boutique or lovingly hand-knitted them yourself, nothing is more frustrating than seeing your favorite piece of knitwear lose its shape over time. But don’t worry, maintaining the shape of your knitwear doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With just a few simple steps, you can keep your knits looking as good as new for years to come. In this article, we’ll share with you some easy and effective methods for keeping your knitwear in top shape. So get your knits ready and let’s dive in!
Fold, Don’t Hang
One of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to knitwear is hanging them in the closet. While this may seem like the most convenient way to store your knits, it can actually cause them to stretch out and lose their shape. Knitwear is made of soft, stretchy fabric, and hanging them can put too much pressure on the shoulders, causing them to lose their shape and become misshapen. To avoid this, it’s best to fold your knitwear and place them neatly in your closet. This method not only maintains their shape but also saves you some precious closet space.
Wash with Care
Washing your knitwear can be a tricky business, as it’s important to not only clean them but also avoid damaging their shape. The best way to wash your knits is to hand wash them in cold water with a mild detergent. Avoid using hot water or harsh detergents, as they can cause the fabric to shrink or lose its elasticity. If you must machine wash your knits, make sure to put them in a mesh laundry bag to prevent them from getting stretched out or tangled with other garments. And always opt for the delicate or wool cycle.
Avoid Using the Dryer
While it may be tempting to toss your knitwear in the dryer for a quick and easy drying process, it’s best to avoid it altogether. The high heat from the dryer can cause the fabric to shrink or lose its shape. Instead, gently squeeze the excess water out of the knits and reshape them before laying them flat to dry. You can also roll them in a towel to absorb the excess water before putting them to dry. This method may take longer, but it’s worth the effort to preserve the shape of your knits.
Store with Care
When it’s time to pack away your knitwear for the season, make sure to store them properly to maintain their shape. As mentioned earlier, folding is the best way to store knitwear. But if you’re tight on space, you can also choose to hang your knits, but make sure to fold them over a hanger instead of hanging them by the shoulders. You can also use acid-free tissue paper or a cotton cloth to prevent any creases from forming.
Give Them Some Breathing Room
Knitwear, especially wool, needs to breathe. If you stuff them in a tightly packed closet, they won’t have enough room to breathe, causing them to lose their shape and develop a musty smell. Make sure to give them some breathing room in your closet and avoid stacking them on top of each other. If you’re tight on space, consider rotating your knitwear every few weeks to prevent any creases from forming and to give them some air.
In Conclusion
Knitwear is a wardrobe staple, and it’s essential to take good care of them to ensure they last for years to come. With these simple steps, you can maintain the shape of your knitwear and keep them looking as good as new. Remember to fold, not hang, wash with care, avoid the dryer, and store them properly. With a little extra effort, you can keep your favorite knits in tip-top shape and enjoy them for many winters to come. Happy knitting!
