Staying Cozy: Tips on How to Care For & Store Your Sweaters

in DIY, Learn, Tips and Tricks

Staying Cozy

Tips on How to Care For & Store Your Sweaters

Now that spring is here, you may get excited to put away those chunky sweaters and pull out the short sleeves… but wait! Don’t just toss them in a drawer! There are actually a few steps that you should take to make sure that those much loved items stay comfy and cozy for next year. Here are some tips on how to care for and store your sweaters.

Remove Pills & Lint

Something to consider doing regularly (and before storing) is checking over your sweaters for things like lint, dandruff, pills, and hair. These unsightly flaws can be embarrassing, but also lessen the integrity of the garment.

  • You could easily use household items like a small pair of scissors or a razor to remove these, just be careful not to put a hole in the sweater. If you care to make a small investment, you could purchase a sweater comb or fabric shaver. 
  • Once the larger pieces are removed, use a lint roller to take off any smaller particles.

Fix Snags or Holes

Every once in a while, sweaters can get snagged due to the bigger gaps in the knit. It is important to fix these before they spread. Don’t fret if you think you can’t sew, it’s easy!

  • First, turn the sweater inside out and locate the hole. Using a large sewing needle or crochet hook, pull the snagged yarn back through the hole and tug gently until it closes the space. Tie a small tight knot so it won’t happen again and turn it right side out. Voila!

Washing

A very important thing to know is that sweaters should not be washed every time you wear them. Similar to jeans, they have a stronger make-up, but often fade, so plan to wash only once every 3-4 wears unless it gets stained. Wool sweaters may go as long as 5 wears.

  • When a sweater says “hand wash only,” reach for a CLEAN PEOPLE Laundry Detergent Sheet. These sheets are great because you can tear off a small portion of it for laundering only a few garments. Fill your clean sink/tub with cool water and add the strip, then put the shirts in and swish around.  Work the detergent and water into the clothes getting all dirt, sweat, and grime out. Rinse well with cool water and lay flat to dry.
  • If your sweater allows for a machine wash, make sure to set it for a delicate cycle. Using a CLEAN PEOPLE Liquid Laundry Detergent Pod, wash the sweaters and lay flat to dry.
  • If your particular sweater permits drying, using our 100% Organic Wool Dryer Balls helps to fluff and dry gentle items. Remember to run in delicate mode!

Storing

After washing for the last time of the season, it is time to store your cozy clothing. Ensure they are completely dry or they may mold. 

  • Breathable large storage bags are ideal because they protect the garments while also allowing air to flow slightly. Simply fold and stack your sweaters into the bag then close tightly. Place in a closet for the off season.
  • If you are worried about possible insects, place a few Lavender scented Natural Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets in the bag to deter them. The linalool content in the Lavender has shown to repel mites, beetles, and cockroaches. Plus, they will smell amazing when you pull them out next year!

There you have it! An easy to follow list of how to care for and store your sweaters. CLEAN PEOPLE makes it simple to naturally keep your clothing safe and clean.