+8615066666292     wfs808@wfscashmere.com
Cardigan Care Guide: How to Wash, Store, and Maintain Your Knitwear
You are here: Home » News » Cardigan Care Guide: How to Wash, Store, and Maintain Your Knitwear

Cardigan Care Guide: How to Wash, Store, and Maintain Your Knitwear

Views: 0     Author: WFS Cashmere Style Team     Publish Time: 2026-01-30      Origin: WFS Cashmere

Respecting the Thread

A high-quality cardigan is not just a purchase; it is an investment in your style and comfort. Whether it's a lightweight cotton piece for summer or a luxurious cashmere cardigan for winter, the longevity of your knitwear depends entirely on how you treat it.

Many people shy away from premium wool or cashmere because they fear the maintenance. But the truth is, caring for knitwear is simple once you know the rules. With the right attention, your favorite cardigan can look brand new for years, not just a single season.

In this guide, we share our expert secrets on washing, storing, and reviving your beloved knits.

The Wash: Cleanliness Without Damage

The most common way cardigans are ruined is through improper washing. Heat and agitation are the enemies of natural fibers.

1. Read the Label First

Before doing anything, check the care label.

  • "Dry Clean Only": Take it to a professional. This is common for structured cardigans with linings.

  • "Hand Wash": This is the gold standard for most wool and cashmere cardigans.

2. The Art of Hand Washing

If you are washing at home, follow these steps:

  • Water Temperature: Use cool or lukewarm water (never hot). Hot water shocks the fibers and causes shrinking.

  • Detergent: Use a dedicated wool or cashmere shampoo. Avoid harsh biological detergents or bleach.

  • Technique: Submerge the cardigan and gently squeeze the suds through the fabric. Do not rub, twist, or wring the fabric, as this distorts the shape.

  • Rinsing: Rinse with cool water until all soap is gone.

3. Drying Correctly

  • The Towel Roll: Lay the wet cardigan on a clean, dry towel. Roll it up like a sleeping bag to press out excess water.

  • Lay Flat: Unroll and reshape the cardigan on a drying rack. Never hang a wet cardigan, as the weight of the water will stretch it out of shape permanently.

Cardigan Care Guide: How to Wash, Store, and Maintain Your Knitwear

Storage: The "No-Hang" Rule

How you store your cardigans when you aren't wearing them is just as important as how you wash them.

1. Fold, Don’t Hang

Gravity is the enemy of knitwear. Hanging a cardigan on a hanger for long periods causes "shoulder bumps" and stretches the fabric vertically.

  • The Solution: Always fold your cardigans and stack them neatly on a shelf or in a drawer.

2. Long-Term Storage (Off-Season)

When putting your winter knits away for summer:

  • Clean First: Moths are attracted to body oils and food scents, even if you can't see them. Always wash before storing.

  • Breathable Containers: Store in cotton bags or canvas bins. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause yellowing.

  • Natural Repellents: Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets to naturally repel moths without the harsh smell of mothballs.

Cardigan Care Guide: How to Wash, Store, and Maintain Your Knitwear

Repair & Maintenance: Dealing with Pilling and Snags

Even the highest quality cashmere can face wear and tear. Here is how to handle common issues.

1. The Truth About Pilling

Pilling (those little fuzzballs) is not necessarily a sign of poor quality. It occurs when shorter fibers work their way to the surface due to friction.

  • The Fix: Do not pull them off by hand! Use a cashmere comb or an electric fabric shaver. Glide it gently over the surface to shave off the fuzz, revealing the fresh knit underneath.

2. Fixing Snags

If your jewelry catches a thread:

  • The Fix: Never cut the thread. This will create a hole that will unravel. Instead, use a crochet hook or a needle to gently pull the loose loop through to the inside (wrong side) of the cardigan.

Conclusion: Love Your Knits

Caring for your cardigans is a ritual of appreciation. By taking a few extra minutes to wash gently and store correctly, you ensure that your wardrobe favorites remain soft, shapely, and beautiful.

A well-cared-for cardigan is a timeless companion. If you are looking to add durable, high-quality pieces to your collection, we are here to help.

Invest in Quality: Browse our durable and luxurious Cardigan Product List designed to last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Answering specific maintenance questions helps capture "Featured Snippets" for queries like "Can I iron cashmere?".

Q1: Can I iron my cardigan?

A: Direct heat can crush the fibers or cause glazing. Instead of ironing, we recommend using a handheld steamer to remove wrinkles and refresh the fabric. If you must iron, use the lowest heat setting and place a pressing cloth between the iron and the cardigan.

Q2: How often should I wash my cardigan?

A: Unlike t-shirts, cardigans don't need to be washed after every wear. Wool and cashmere have natural antibacterial properties. Washing every 3-5 wears is usually sufficient, unless there is a visible stain.

Q3: Why did my cardigan shrink?

A: Shrinkage usually happens due to heat (hot water or dryer) or agitation (heavy machine cycle). Unfortunately, once wool fibers have felted and shrunk, it is very difficult to reverse.

Q4: Is dry cleaning better than hand washing?

A: Not necessarily. While convenient, the harsh chemicals used in dry cleaning can strip the natural oils from cashmere fibers over time, making them brittle. Hand washing is often gentler and keeps the fibers soft.