I love a good quality sweater and have invested quite a bit into building my collection. I typically take them to the cleaners, but I worry about the harsh chemicals. I thought I’d give hand washing a try. Not only will this extend the longevity of the fabric, but also save money.
Washing
Fill a sink or tub with cool water and then add in some Woolite or another gentle detergent. Submerge the sweater into the water and swish around. Let it sit for 3o minutes and then rise with cold water.
Drying
Squeeze the sweater gently, but avoid wringing it out. A salad spinner will also work. Lay the sweater flat on a towel and roll it up to soak up access water. Unroll sweater and lay flat to dry. A mesh rack works best, allowing airflow beneath the sweater.
Remove Piling
Use an inexpensive razor and gently glide it over the piling or use an electronic sweater shaver. I find that both methods work great.
Storing
Always fold your sweaters and store them in a drawer or shelf to avoid stretching the fabric. If you have to hang your sweater fold them this way to avoid creasing.
Repairing
Have a hole in your sweater? Repair it by following these instructions.
Where to Shop
If you’re looking to spruce up your sweater selection check out some of my favorite retailers.
Sweater Inspiration
Need some sweater inspiration? Get inspired with these past looks. (Click on the photo to be directed to the post).
You might also like How to Care For Denim or Tips For Wearing Lace.
Amelia Vesper says
November 24, 2015 at 10:58 pmI had no idea you could use a razor to get rid of pilling! I am definitely going to try that…very carefully, of course 🙂
herrmj says
December 1, 2015 at 7:48 amReally?! It’s amazing and really works. I’m glad you found the post helpful.
Prudence says
November 25, 2015 at 2:16 amThese sound like really great tips to keep sweaters in their best conditions, thanks for sharing!
Prudence
http://www.prudencepetitestyle.com
herrmj says
December 1, 2015 at 7:49 amGlad you enjoyed the post!
vivian | t w o w a r d says
November 25, 2015 at 6:30 amHappy hump day Asa! Omigosh, these tips are so helpful especially the pilling with a razor! If I have read your post earlier, my blazer wouldn’t have “died” 🙁 Anyway, thanks for sharing, I’ll certainly use these in the future! 😉 xo Vivian
http://www.twoward.com
herrmj says
December 1, 2015 at 7:51 amYay! So glad you liked it. I’m all for keeping my clothes in tip top shape.
Oh no! What happen to your blazer?
Feline Creatures says
November 25, 2015 at 9:36 amThese are great ideas Asa! I have to say, I really needed the drying tips especially the salad spinner, now you got me thinking! Happy thanksgiving hun, have a great one with the hubby! 🙂 xo~ Lena
http://www.felinecreatures.com
herrmj says
December 1, 2015 at 7:54 amLena! I’ve missed you. I hope all is well. Glad you found the post useful. I just learned the salad spinner tip. Genius!
Thanks Lena. We had a great Thanksgiving. I hope yours was good too.
Molly says
November 25, 2015 at 6:18 pmSuch great tips! I never thought of using a salad spinner and a razer instead of a sweater shaver! You always look so darling in sweaters and with Seattle weather we definitely need more of them!
Keep smiling!
Molly | http://www.stylemissmolly.com
herrmj says
December 1, 2015 at 7:59 amThe salad spinner idea is new to me too. I can’t believe I didn’t think of it. Super helpful.
Oh thanks Molly! You’re sweet. I am obsessed with sweaters. I think they might be my favorite article of clothing, you can literally wear them 75 % of the time in our climate.
My Fashion S/ash Life says
November 27, 2015 at 11:06 pmOoooh, dont you have a lovely collection of sweaters in that montage! Reading your tips I see I take little to no care of my own, so will get on the case thanks for taking us to school, haha! (:
herrmj says
December 1, 2015 at 8:01 amThank you lovely! Sweaters are a main staple in Seattle, plus I’m always cold.
Lol! Glad you liked the post. 😄
Doreen's Style Diary says
November 29, 2015 at 11:44 amThese tips are so helpful. I usually avoid buying sweaters if I have to dry clean them. Now I don’t have to thanks to your tips.
http://doreensstylediary.com
herrmj says
December 1, 2015 at 8:07 amOh yay! So glad you enjoyed the post and found it helpful.