How to care for wool sweaters properly: tips for washing and drying
SSPDaily has prepared tips for caring for woolen sweaters. Learn about the right washing and drying methods.
Washing by hand
Hand washing sweaters is the best way to preserve their shape and fibers. Use a mild detergent and cold water and leave the sweater for 10-15 minutes. The sweater should be gently rubbed in the water and then rinsed with cool water.
It is important not to squeeze or twist the item as this can lead to stretching or damage to the fabric.
After that, the sweater should be laid out on a towel to remove excess water and allowed to dry.
Use the delicate cycle in the washing machine
If hand washing is inconvenient, you can use the delicate cycle in your washing machine. Turn the sweater inside out, place it in a mesh laundry bag and add a small amount of gentle detergent.
Then select the delicate cycle with cold water and use a low spin speed. At the end of the cycle, remove the sweater from the bag and place it on a towel to dry.
Drying properly
After washing, it is important not to hang the sweater as it can lose its shape under the weight of water. Instead, it should be laid out on a clean towel to absorb excess moisture.
Gently turn the towel with the sweater inside to remove excess water, and then return it to its original shape. Place the sweater on a drying rack or other clean towel and let it dry completely.
Using an alternative fabric softener
To soften a sweater without traditional softeners, you can add a small amount of white vinegar to the water for the final rinse when hand washing. This will help to eliminate the persistent odor and add softness to the fabric. For washing, use a specially formulated fabric softener designed for delicate fabrics such as sweaters.
Proper storage
After washing and drying, sweaters should be stored by folding them to prevent stretching. It is advisable not to hang them in the closet as this can lead to deformation of the shoulders. To preserve the quality and appearance of sweaters, they should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.