How to Wash and Care for Your Hand-Knitted Garments
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Knitting a garment by hand is a process full of dedication and creativity. Each stitch takes time, love and effort, so it is important to make sure that these pieces last for many years in perfect condition. Good maintenance will ensure that your garment retains its shape, softness and colour, preventing premature wear.
In this article, we give you tips on how to care for and prolong the life of your hand-knitted garments.
1. Wash your clothes gently
Knitted garments require delicate washing to prevent them from becoming misshapen or shrinking. Follow these steps for safe washing:
✅ Always check the label or the fiber you have used
- Some wools can be machine washed on a gentle cycle, while others require hand washing.
✅ If you wash by hand:
- Use cold or warm water (max. 30°C).
- Add a special detergent for wool or delicate garments.
- Soak the garment without rubbing or twisting.
- Rinse with clean water and squeeze gently without twisting.
✅ If you machine wash:
- Use a laundry bag for delicate garments.
- Select the wool or delicate cycle.
- Use cold water and gentle spin.
2. Dry them properly
Drying is key to ensure that the garment does not deform or lose its elasticity.
❌ Do not use a dryer or hang the garment on hangers → This can cause it to stretch and lose its shape.
✅ It is best to dry them horizontally:
- Place a dry towel on a flat surface.
- Lay the garment out on top in its original shape.
- Let it air dry, avoiding direct sunlight.
✨ Extra tip: If the garment is very wet, you can place another towel on top and gently press to absorb excess water before letting it dry.
3. Blocking: The secret to keeping your form
Blocking is a technique that helps garments maintain their original shape and dimensions after washing.
📌 How to block a garment:
- After washing , gently stretch it into shape.
- Pin it to a flat surface (like a towel or blocking mat).
- Let it dry completely before moving it.
This technique is especially useful for garments with openwork stitches, shawls or textured sweaters.
4. Store them well to avoid deformations
Proper storage is essential to prevent your knitwear from stretching or pilling.
❌ Avoid hanging them on hangers
✅ Fold them and store them in a drawer or breathable fabric box
✅ If they are made of wool, use lavender or cedar bags to avoid moths
✨ If you store wool sweaters seasonally, place them in cotton bags or storage boxes to keep them in good condition.
5. Avoid pilling (wool balls)
Pilling is the formation of small balls on the surface of the garment due to friction. Although it is inevitable with use, you can reduce it with these tips:
✅ Choose quality fibers : Natural and well-twisted fibers are less likely to pill.
✅ Wash the garment gently : Excessive rubbing during washing can accelerate the formation of pilling.
✅ Use a fabric shaver or special comb : You can remove the pills without damaging the garment.
6. Repair and recycle your knitted garments
Over time, some clothes may wear out or tear, but there is no need to throw them away.
🔹 If a stitch comes loose , you can use a needle to pick it up before it comes undone.
🔹 If there is a hole , you can repair it using the visible mending or embroidery technique.
🔹 If you no longer use it , you can undo the garment and reuse the wool for another project.
7. Give love to your hand-knitted garments
Hand-knitted garments are not just pieces of clothing, but small works of art full of history. With proper care, they can accompany you for many years, maintaining their beauty and comfort.
✨ At Idealium, we believe in slow fashion and the quality of handmade items. If you are looking for a project that will last, explore our kits and start knitting garments that will be part of your story.