I love a good cozy sweater this time of year. The softer, the better. And when I find a
sweater I truly adore, I want it to last; not just for this season, but for many winters to come.
Over the years, I’ve learned that a little sweater care goes a long way. Here’s exactly what I do to keep my favorites looking fresh, soft, and ready to wear on
repeat.
Let’s Talk Pilling (Because It Happens to the Best Sweaters)
Even the highest-quality sweaters pill. Those tiny fuzz balls show up anywhere there’s friction, under the arms, along the sides, where a purse strap rubs, even where
your arms brush against your body. It’s not a sign of a “bad” sweater; it’s simply the fibers rubbing together.
Some materials pill more than others. Wool, cashmere, blends, and even cotton can develop fuzz over time. For whatever reason, it always seems to show up on my favorite sweater first!
How I Depill My Sweaters
The key is being gentle. There are two tools I use, and while they serve the same purpose, they aren’t quite the same:
Fabric ShaverThis is a small handheld device with a rotating blade behind a mesh screen. It “shaves” the pills off the surface. Here’s how I use it: 1. Lay the sweater flat on a smooth surface (a table, bed, or clean countertop).
2. Hold the fabric taut with one hand.
3. Glide the shaver slowly and lightly over the pilled areas. No pressing down.
4. Empty the little lint compartment as it fills.
5. Finish with a quick once-over to catch any remaining fuzz.
Fabric shavers work beautifully on heavier knits or sweaters with lots of pilling.
Sweater CombThis is a small, flat comb (sometimes made of cedar) that manually pulls off pills when you stroke it across the fabric. Here’s how I use the comb: 1. Again, lay the sweater flat.
2. Hold one edge with your hand to keep it steady.
3. Gently comb in short, light strokes in one direction.
4. Lift away the collected pills as you go.
Sweater
combs are great for delicate fabrics or areas where you want a gentler touch.
Folding Sweaters the Right Way
Hanging sweaters seems convenient, but it stretches the shoulders and leaves those little poofs that never quite go away. Folding
is kinder. My favorite method:
1. Lay the sweater flat, front down.
2. Fold each sleeve straight across the back so the cuffs meet.
3. Fold the bottom of the sweater up toward the neckline in thirds or halves, whatever fits your shelf or drawer best.
4. If you want to go fancy, tuck the bottom into the top for a tidy “file fold,”
but regular folding works just fine.
5. Stack them loosely so they can breathe.
Letting Sweaters Air Out Between Wears
Sweaters don’t need washing after every wear. In fact, washing them too often can shorten their life.
After I take off a sweater, I lay it over a drying rack or the back of a clean chair for a few hours to air out. This lets moisture evaporate and helps prevent odors. Then I fold it and put it away.
Washing With a Gentle TouchSweaters love cool water and mild detergent.My routine: 1. Turn the sweater inside out.
2. Handwash or place in a mesh laundry bag on the delicate cycle.
3. Use cool water and a gentle detergent made for wool or knits.
4. Lay it flat on a towel to dry. Never hang, because hanging stretches the fibers.
5. Reshape it while damp if needed.
I keep my
sweaters together in a large drawer. I also tuck in a cedar block to keep everything smelling fresh and discourage moths. Just don’t let the cedar directly touch
the fabric. It can leave marks.I think part of the joy of sweater weather is pulling out those familiar favorites, the ones that fit just right and feel like comfort the moment you slip them on. A little extra care now keeps them in that cozy, lovely condition all season long.
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