- Handwashing your knitwear in cool water is always best! But if you must use the washing machine choose the delicate or woollen setting and wash with like colours only, avoid hash detergents and opt for an eco friendly delicate wool wash. Remember mesh wash bags for delicates are brilliant to use in the machine when washing your knitwear, this avoids unnecessary abrasion on the fibres.
- If you choose to hand wash soak for a few minutes, rinse thoroughly in cool water, roll your knit in a clean dry towel and gently squeeze out as much water as possible, then lay flat to dry. If machine washing remember to reduce the spin speed and again dry flat, do not hang to dry.
- Storing your knits – The best way to store your woollens is to fold to store and ensure they are thoroughly dry before doing so to prevent the growth of mildew or mould. Folding knitwear increases it’s longevity as hanging will stretch the fibres. Storing on open shelving is usually the best way to arrange them, in stacks of no more than 4 or 5 depending on the bulkiness of the garment. Stacking too many knits on top of one another will compress the fibres and remember, we want a cool and dark place to keep insects away! Otherwise opt for breathable storage solutions like cotton or linen garment bags or plastic storage containers with ventilation to prevent moisture build-up. If you’re tight on space or don’t have open shelves, try lightly folding, or even rolling in drawers. For your treasured cashmere (and other delicates) they should be stored in an airtight garment bag or container to protect them from moths and dust.
- Maintaining your knits in pristine condition just takes a little care. Pilling, (small balls of fibre on the surface of a garment), is a common and natural part with knitwear. The best ways to minimize pilling, turn your garment inside out before washing and avoid wearing it with rough or abrasive materials like Velcro or jewellery. When you do need to remove these annoying little balls of fibre, invest in professional wool razor to gently remove them. For snags or loose threads, use a crochet hook or a blunt needle to pull the snag through to the inside of the garment and secure it by weaving it into the surrounding stitches. You can also purchase a ‘Snag Repair Needle’ specifically for snags in the fibre. These are readily available to purchase online, at many online sites, Amazon being just one, simply search Snag repair needle or ask at your favourite haberdashery store. https://www.amazon.com
- Taking care of your knitwear doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right approach, you can preserve the beauty and longevity of your lovely knits. It’s also a good idea to rest your woollens between wears. By rotating the knits in your wardrobe you help the fibres rest and recover between wears. This helps prevent stretching or distortion of your favourite knitwear allowing the fibres to spring back. For a quick pick me up and refresh between washes a gentle steam with a hand held steamer does the trick. By following the tips outlined in this guide, from gentle handwashing to proper storage, you’ll be able to enjoy the warmth and style of your knitwear for years to come. Embrace the comfort and timeless appeal of your knits, and let them be a cherished part of your wardrobe season after season.
The Wardrobe Wizard 
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