As winter arrives, wool sweaters undoubtedly become a cozy companion during the chilly season, but washing them can be a headache. Don’t want to send them to the cleaners but worry about ruining them yourself? Don’t fret! Gao Yuanlong, a designer from the clothing brand SYZYGY, shares four key cleaning tips to help you maintain your sweater’s softness and fluffiness at home.
Gentle soaking and towel drying is the key
Avoid carelessly tossing your wool sweater directly into the washing machine! Gao recommends starting with a gentle soak. Use a mild natural detergent suitable for wool, mix it into water, and soak the sweater lightly for 10-20 minutes, allowing stains to loosen. After soaking, gently pat dry with a towel and lay flat to air dry, avoiding hanging, which could deform the sweater. This gentle approach is the first step to keeping your sweater soft and fluffy.
Avoid vigorous scrubbing and squeezing
When washing wool sweaters, remember the word “gentle”! Many people habitually scrub vigorously or wring clothes to remove stains, which is a major no-no for wool garments. Wool deformation often results not from washing but from rough handling. Gao emphasizes handwashing with light kneading, or if using a washing machine, selecting the "gentle wash mode" to prevent excessive compression.
Sweaters and other woolen garments stored for half a year are prone to moth damage. It is recommended to use natural laundry detergent with anti-moth and antibacterial essential oils to prevent moth infestation and keep clothes pleasantly scented. (Photo/Heho)
Proper storage keeps sweaters in top shape
After washing your wool sweater, proper storage is equally important! Gao suggests using natural laundry detergents with anti-moth and antibacterial properties when storing sweaters, hats, or gloves. This not only keeps your garments fresh-smelling but also effectively prevents moths or insects from damaging your clothes, ensuring your sweaters remain in pristine condition for next winter.
Avoid chemical detergents, opt for wool-friendly natural cleaners
Choosing the right detergent is crucial for wool garments. While chemical cleaners may be effective, they often leave unpleasant odors and can irritate both fabric and skin. Gao strongly recommends avoiding petroleum-based detergents and opting for natural cleaners that preserve the original color and fluffiness of wool, ensuring the sweater stays soft and comfortable after washing.
Gentle care keeps your sweaters warm all winter
Wool sweaters are soft and cozy but require delicate care. From soaking to air drying to avoiding chemical detergents, every small detail ensures your sweater remains shapely and free of pilling. This winter, follow Gao Yuanlong’s cleaning tips to give your beloved sweater the best care. With these step-by-step instructions, you can skip the cleaners and easily handle it yourself, saving money while keeping your clothes in perfect condition!
Source: Bella Taiwan
