How To Care For Knitwear: Tips on Keeping Your Favourite Jumpers New For Longer

We’ve all got that one jumper we couldn’t live without – well, maybe two or three (fine, four). But when you’re guilty of living in your favourite knits, you’ll notice they start to look a little worn over time. So, how do you keep your knitwear fresh for as long as possible? It comes down to two things: quality and care.

Why Invest in Timeless Knitwear?

It goes without saying, but knitwear that’s designed with timeless style is destined to last in your wardrobe for years to come. But there’s little point in buying timeless designs if they don’t have the perennial quality behind them. Luckily, all our knitwear at Saint + Sofia is handmade using the finest wools, cotton, and cashmere to ensure it impresses season after season.

The Benefits of High-Quality Knitwear

When your crewneck jumpers and V-neck sweaters are handcrafted from high-quality fibres, you’ll notice they feel softer on the skin and stay smooth and gentle even after washing. They also typically hang over your figure with a more flattering drape and hold their shape for longer.

How To Care For Wool, Cotton, and Cashmere Knitwear

We spoke to the experts at Clothes Doctor to find out how we should really be caring for our knitwear.

Wool Knitwear Care Tips

The first trick to washing your wool? Avoid washing it unless it’s actually dirty! Washing wool too often can cause it to lose its colour and softness, so don’t wash it more than you have to. If your wool needs a little refresh between washes, try the Clothes Doctor’s gorgeously scented Knitwear Mists to give them a refresh. 

Wool is naturally durable but it needs gentle washing to prevent shrinking. The best way to clean your wool jumpers is by hand-washing them with a specialist wash like the Clothes Doctor’s Wool & Cashmere Wash. By handwashing with a gentle cleanser you don’t impact the delicate natural fibres your jumpers are made from. If you prefer machine washing, always use a cold, gentle wool cycle and after washing, avoid wringing – simply press out excess water with a towel and lay flat to dry.

Cotton Knitwear Care Tips

Cotton is easier to care for but still needs proper handling to maintain its shape. Wash at a cool temperature (30°C or lower) using the Clothes Doctor’s cashmere and wool wash, which gently cleans without breaking down fibres. Over-washing can lead to stretching, so only wash when necessary.

Avoid hanging cotton jumpers, as this can cause them to lose their shape. Instead, fold them neatly. If your cotton knitwear looks creased or tired, refresh it with a quick spritz of the Clothes Doctor’s Crease Release Spray.

Cashmere Knitwear Care Tips

Cashmere is delicate and needs special attention. We’re sure most readers have had the heartbreaking experience of discovering their favourite cashmere sweater has turned child-sized after a spin in the wrong wash cycle. Hand washing is always the best option – use lukewarm water with the Clothes Doctor’s Wool & Cashmere Wash and let your cashmere soak for around 30 minutes before gently rinsing. Never wring cashmere; instead, press out excess water using a towel.

Key Takeaways

We know that investing in high-quality knitwear will help to increase the longevity of your favourite winter layers. But to keep them fresh and soft for even longer, washing them with the correct detergents and at the right temperature keeps your garments looking and feeling their best for longer. It also helps to minimise the chances of shrinkage and keep your flattering silhouettes in shape.

Want to WIN a knitwear care basket and £150 to spend at Saint + Sofia?

We’re partnering with Clothes Doctor to gift three lucky winners a £100+ knitwear care basket and £150 worth of Saint + Sofia vouchers. For your chance to win, click the link below.