How to Make Your Sweaters Last

For all of their coziness, your favourite sweaters are vulnerable to a host of threats, from spilled cups of coffee to pilling under the arms to the dreaded moth hole. Here’s how to keep your knits looking their best, and how to know when it’s time to bid them adieu.

Cleaning

The good news is that unless you spill something on it, or it picks up a bad smell, a good quality wool or cashmere sweater can go several seasons between washing and be no worse for wear. In fact, the more you wash a sweater, the shorter its life may be. This is especially true of dry-cleaning, which can strip the fibres of their natural oils.

Since different fibres have different requirements, your first stop should always be the care instructions on the tag. Depending on the composition of your sweater (merino wool, cotton, cashmere, etc.) you may be able to machine-wash it. Just be sure to place it inside out in a mesh delicates bag, use a wool-friendly detergent, and use a gentle cold water cycle. Unless you have a newer, high-end machine, however, it’s a safer bet to hand-wash – especially if the sweater in question is one of your favourites.

Fortunately, hand-washing isn’t complicated at all. If your sweater has an odour, pre-soak it in a tub of cold water with 1/4 cup of white vinegar before washing. Then simply fill a sink or tub with lukewarm water, add a small amount of detergent (preferably one formulated specifically for wool) and soak. After 30 minutes, rinse the sweater thoroughly, first in lukewarm water, then in cold water. Finally, lay the sweater out flat to dry on a sweater rack or a towel on the floor. Do not wring.

De-Pilling

The better the quality of your sweater, the less it will pill, but it’s still likely to eventually develop those annoying little balls of fuzz at the cuffs and under the arms. Fortunately, a quick once-over with a specialized sweater comb or electric de-piller will leave it looking brand new again.

Storage

To prevent moth attacks and general mustiness, store your sweaters in airtight bags or sealed containers during the off-season. Since moths are attracted to stains, give your sweaters a once-over, and spot-clean them as needed. For extra protection (and a pleasant smell when you take them out) store them with a sachet of lavender or a cedar block. It’s also advisable to fold your sweaters, never hang them. Gravity will do its thing and cause your fine knit to lose its shape.

Calling It Quits

If your sweater has a hole in it, a persistent odour, or a stain that no one can lift, it’s time to say goodbye. Fortunately, since wool is a natural fibre, it will biodegrade much faster than synthetics if it’s destined for the landfill. Likewise, if your sweater hasn’t been worn in years, whether it’s itchy, unflattering, or the wrong colour, don’t hesitate to add it to the donation bag.