How To Keep Your Knitwear Looking New With This Care And Maintenance Guide

Knitwear is a classic wardrobe that provides comfort and style throughout winter. However, it can be difficult to keep it in excellent shape due to pulls, snags, and pilling.

These flaws can make even high-quality knitwear appear worn out.

1. Handle Knitwear with Care

One of the simplest methods to avoid pulling is to handle your knitwear carefully. Avoid wearing jewellery or accessories with sharp edges that might grab the cloth.

To avoid stretching or snagging from hangers, fold knitwear rather than hanging it.

2. Treat Snags Immediately

If a thread is ripped out of position, act quickly to prevent additional harm. Use a crochet hook or a knit picker (a small latch hook tool) to gently remove the caught thread back into the garment.

This approach prevents unravelling and ensures the fabric’s integrity.

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You may also use a needle and thread approach, inserting the threaded needle from the wrong side of the garment, looping the snag into the thread, and pulling it back inside.

Never cut the snagged thread since this might cause holes.

Prevent Pilling

Use Liquid Detergent: Washing powder can be harsh on fibres, causing damage and pilling. Opt for liquid detergent to preserve the integrity of the yarn.

Wash Inside Out: Turning garments inside out reduces friction during washing, minimising wear on the outer surface.

Separate Fragile Laundry: Wash delicate knitwear separately to avoid damage from heavier items.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Skip softeners and bleach, as they weaken fibres and contribute to pilling.

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Reduce Stretching

Lay Flat to Dry: Avoid hanging knitwear, as it can stretch out the neckline and sleeves. Use a mesh drying rack for even airflow and quicker drying.

Reshape with Heat: For stretched cuffs or edges, dip them in hot water, reshape by pinching the fabric, and blow-dry to restore original proportions.

Prevent Bobbling

Use a Pill Remover: Tools like the Gleener Fuzz Remover or a razor can effectively remove bobbles without damaging the fabric. Work gently with light strokes.

Handwash When Possible: Handwashing with gentle detergent reduces friction compared to machine washing, helping prevent bobbles from forming.

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General Maintenance Tips

Store Properly: Fold it instead of hanging it to maintain its shape.

Avoid Excessive Friction: Be mindful of activities that cause rubbing (e.g., carrying bags over shoulders), as friction accelerates wear and tear.

Choose Quality Yarns: Synthetic blends are more prone to pilling than natural fibres like wool or cashmere.

Emergency Fixes

Velcro for Bobbles: Use the scratchy side of Velcro for quick bobble removal on sturdy knits. Lay the garment flat and swipe gently to avoid tangling.

Adhesive Tape Cleanup: After shaving pills off your knitwear, use adhesive tape or gloves to pick up loose fibres efficiently.

You can extend the life of your knitwear while keeping it stylish and comfortable season after season.

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