Knitwear can stay with you for many seasons, but it is easy to spoil: water that is too hot, a coat hanger or washing it too often is enough. Here are simple rules for looking after jumpers and cardigans so that they keep their shape and look for longer.
Start with the label
The fibre content and the maker's instructions are on the care label sewn into the garment. It decides whether a jumper can go in the washing machine and at what temperature. The tips below are general and do not replace the label – where they differ, follow the label.
Washing and cleaning
Wash knitwear less often than T-shirts: after a day's wear, airing it is often enough. When it does need washing, turn the jumper inside out and choose the programme and temperature given on the label. Don't wring wet knitwear – press the water out by rolling the jumper in a towel. Deal with a stain straight away by dabbing it with a damp cloth; don't rub, as that works the dirt into the fibres.
Drying and storing
Dry a jumper flat on a towel, shaping the shoulders and sleeves naturally. Wet knitwear on a hanger stretches under its own weight. Use a tumble dryer only if the label allows it. Once dry, fold the jumper and keep it on a shelf or in a drawer rather than on a hanger. Before you put it away for the season, make sure it is clean and dry, and that the place you store it is well ventilated.
Bobbles and small snags
Bobbles, the small balls of fibre, appear where knitwear rubs, such as under the arms. Remove them gently, without pulling, with a fabric shaver or a knitwear comb. If you catch a thread, don't cut it – pull it through to the inside with a crochet hook or a fine needle.
Rotation helps too: let a jumper rest for a day or two between wears so the knit has time to spring back.
