Essential Tips for Caring for Your Knits and Keeping Them Looking New
- Jan Appleton
- Sep 29
- 4 min read
Knitted garments are a beloved staple in many wardrobes, offering warmth, comfort, and style. However, caring for your knits can sometimes feel overwhelming. With the right techniques and a little knowledge, you can keep your knitted items looking fresh and new for years to come. This guide will provide you with essential tips for caring for your knits, ensuring they remain a cherished part of your collection.
Understanding Your Knits
Before diving into care techniques, it's important to understand the materials used in your knitted garments. Knits can be made from a variety of fibres, including wool, cotton, acrylic, and blends. Each material has unique properties and care requirements.
Take wool, for example, which is known for its warmth and elasticity. However, it can shrink in hot water, losing its shape entirely. On the other hand, cotton is breathable and durable but may stretch or lose structure over time. Acrylic, a synthetic fibre, is low maintenance but prone to pilling—up to 30% more than natural fibers. Knowing the composition of your knits will help you choose the best care methods.
Washing Your Knits
One of the most crucial aspects of knit care is washing. Here are some tips to ensure your knits are washed properly:
Read the Care Label: Always check the care label for specific washing instructions. For instance, some wool blends may need dry cleaning, while cotton knits can often be machine washed.
Use Cold Water: When washing knits, use cold water to prevent shrinking and fading. Studies show that 75% of colours maintain their vibrancy better when washed in cold water.
Gentle Detergent: Opt for a gentle detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Harsh chemicals can damage fibres and lead to faster wear over time. I use pure olive oil soap flakes for my knits.
Hand Washing: If your knit is delicate, I would always recommend hand washing. Fill a basin with cold or luke warm water, add a gentle detergent, and gently agitate the water. Submerge the garment and let it soak for about 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Machine Washing: If machine washing is permitted, place your knit in a mesh laundry bag. Use a gentle cycle and cold water to minimize movement.
Avoid Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners can leave a residue that makes your knits feel less soft over time. Instead, consider using a vinegar rinse to help naturally soften fibres.
Drying Your Knits
How you dry your knits is just as important as how you wash them. Here are some best practices:
Never Wring: Avoid wringing out your knits, as this can stretch the fibres and alter the shape. Instead, gently press out excess water by laying the garment flat on a clean towel and rolling it up.
Flat Drying: Always lay your knits flat to dry. Hanging can cause them to lose shape. Utilise a drying rack or a flat surface, reshaping the garment to its original form.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade colours and weaken fibres. Instead, dry your knits in a shaded area or indoors to preserve their vibrancy.
Storing Your Knits
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality of your knits. Here are some tips for storing them effectively:
Fold, Don’t Hang: Always fold your knitted garments, especially heavier pieces. Hanging can cause distress on the fibres over time.
Use Breathable Storage: Store your knits in breathable cotton or linen bags. As much as 25% of natural fibres can suffer from mildew damage when stored in plastic.
Keep Away from Moths: Moths are notorious for damaging wool and other natural fibers. Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets—up to 90% effective in deterring these pests—in your storage area. My favourite is Lavender and you may smell a faint smell of lavender on my knits when you purchase them.
Seasonal Rotation: If you have a large collection of knits, consider rotating them seasonally. Store off-season garments in a cool, dry place, reducing wear and tear.
Dealing with Pilling
Pilling is a common issue with knitted garments. Here’s how to manage and prevent it:
Use a Fabric Shaver: Invest in a fabric shaver to gently remove pills. Press gently, as applying too much pressure can damage fibres.
Avoid Friction: Pilling occurs due to friction. Be mindful of how your knits interact with bags or rough surfaces when wearing them.
Choose Quality Fibres: When purchasing new knits, opt for higher-quality fibres that are less prone to pilling. All of my knitwear is knitted with the highest quality of wools & yarns, known for their softness and durability.
Repairing Your Knits
Even with the best care, accidents can happen. Here are some tips for repairing your knits:
Learn Basic Mending Techniques: Familiarise yourself with basic mending techniques, such as darning or patching. These skills can extend the life of your favourite garments.
Seek Professional Help: If a repair seems daunting, consider taking your knit to a professional. Many seamstresses offer mending services specifically for knitted items.
Preventative Measures: To prevent future damage, be careful when wearing your knits around sharp objects or rough surfaces.
Wrapping Up - Caring for Your Knits
Caring for your knits doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right knowledge and techniques, you can enjoy your knitted garments for many seasons to come. By understanding materials, washing and drying properly, storing wisely, managing pilling, and repairing when necessary, your knits will remain vibrant and cherished. Remember these essential tips and keep your knitted treasures looking new.
