How to Clean Sweaters the Right Way (Including Laundromat Tips)
Sweaters are a cozy wardrobe staple, but they can be tricky to clean, especially if they’re made of delicate fabrics like wool or cashmere. If you want to keep them looking fresh and soft, it’s important to know how to wash them properly. This is even more important if you're washing them at a laundromat where the machines may be rougher on your clothes than your home washer. Here’s your guide to keeping your sweaters clean, without compromising their shape or softness!
1. Read the Care Label
The first step in cleaning any sweater is to check the care label. It’s the best way to know what type of fabric you’re dealing with and what specific cleaning instructions apply. Wool, cashmere, and other delicate fibers have different care needs compared to cotton or synthetic blends.
If your sweater is dry-clean only, skip the washing machine entirely and take it to a professional.
2. Pre-treat Stains
If your sweater has any stains, it’s a good idea to treat them before washing. Use a gentle stain remover that’s safe for delicate fabrics. For oily stains, a small amount of dish soap applied directly to the stain can help. Just make sure to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first!
3. Hand Wash or Use a Delicate Cycle
For most sweaters, hand washing is the safest option. Fill a basin or sink with cool or lukewarm water, add a mild detergent designed for wool or delicates, and gently agitate the water. Avoid wringing out your sweater, as this can stretch and distort the fabric.
If you're using a laundromat, look for a washer with a gentle or delicate cycle. Always use cold water, as hot water can shrink wool and cause other fibers to lose their softness.
Tip: If you don’t have access to a delicate cycle, you can also wash your sweater in a mesh laundry bag to help protect it from the harsh tumbling of the washing machine.
4. Drying Your Sweater
One of the biggest mistakes people make when washing sweaters is putting them in the dryer. This can cause shrinking, stretching, and fabric damage. Instead, after washing, lay your sweater flat to dry on a clean, dry towel. Reshape it to its original form to help maintain its shape.
At a laundromat, you may not always have the luxury of air-drying, but you can still try to avoid using the high-heat dryer settings. If you have no choice, choose the low-heat or air-dry setting to minimize the risk of damage.
5. De-pilling and General Maintenance
Sweaters, especially wool ones, can pill over time, creating those little fuzzy balls on the fabric. To maintain a neat look, use a pilling comb or a fabric shaver to gently remove pills. It’s a simple way to give your sweaters a fresher appearance without damaging the fibers.
Laundromat Tips for Sweaters:
- Choose the Right Machine: Opt for front-load washers if available; they’re gentler on clothes compared to top-loaders, which can agitate clothes more harshly.
- Use a Gentle Detergent: Many laundromats sell detergent, but it’s a good idea to bring your own gentle or specialized detergent for delicates.
- Dryers: If you can’t air-dry, use the lowest heat setting or air-dry in the laundromat if the facility offers that option.
With a bit of care, you can keep your sweaters looking great season after season. Remember, the key is gentleness – avoid agitation, use the right detergent, and always opt for cool water. Whether you’re at home or using a laundromat, following these steps will help your sweaters retain their shape, softness, and longevity.
Join The Discussion!