How To Wash A Cardigan Sweater? – Judith Clark Costume

Washing a cardigan sweater requires special care to avoid damaging the fabric. Here are some steps to follow when washing a cardigan sweater:

Hand wash method: Fill a sink or basin with cold water and add a mild detergent suitable for wool or cashmere. Turn the sweater inside out and submerge it in the water. Gently agitate the sweater to distribute the detergent. Let the sweater soak for 10-15 minutes. Rinse the sweater with cold water until the water runs clear. Gently squeeze out the excess water, but do not wring or twist the sweater. Lay the sweater flat on a clean towel and roll it up to remove more water. Unroll the towel and reshape the sweater, then lay it flat to air dry1 2 4.
Machine wash method: If the care label on the sweater allows for machine washing, use a delicate or handwash cycle with cold water. Use a mild detergent suitable for wool or cashmere. Turn the sweater inside out and place it in a mesh laundry bag to protect it from snagging or stretching. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach. After the cycle is complete, remove the sweater from the bag and reshape it. Lay it flat to air dry5.

It is important to avoid using hot water, which can shrink or damage the fabric, and to never wring or twist the sweater, which can cause stretching or misshaping. It is also recommended to wash the sweater after two to five wears, unless it is soiled3.

Preparing the Cardigan for Washing

When it comes to washing your cardigan sweater, there are a few important steps to take before diving into the washing process. These steps will help ensure that your sweater is cleaned effectively and remains in good condition.

Check the care label

The care label on your cardigan is your best friend when it comes to washing instructions. Take a moment to carefully read and follow the guidelines provided. The label will indicate the best washing method for your specific cardigan, whether it be hand-washing, machine-washing, or dry cleaning.

Remove any stains

Before washing your cardigan, it’s a good idea to check for any stains and treat them accordingly. Take a closer look at the areas that may have come into contact with dirt, food, or other substances. Use a stain remover or a gentle detergent to treat the stains before proceeding with the washing process.

Undo any buttons or zippers

To ensure that your cardigan is thoroughly cleaned and to prevent any damage, it’s important to undo any buttons or zippers before washing. This allows for better circulation of water and detergent, ensuring that all areas of the cardigan are reached and cleaned effectively.

Turn the cardigan inside out

Turning your cardigan inside out before washing can help protect the outer fabric and prevent it from snagging or fading. By exposing the inner side of the cardigan to the water and detergent, you can ensure that any stains or odors are effectively treated during the washing process.

Empty the pockets

Before placing your cardigan into the washing machine or sink, make sure to empty all the pockets. This step may seem trivial, but it’s essential to prevent any damage to your cardigan and avoid any surprises, such as forgotten items or potential color bleeding from items left inside the pockets.

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Choosing the Right Washing Method

Once you have prepared your cardigan for washing, it’s crucial to choose the appropriate washing method based on the care label instructions. There are three main options: hand-washing, machine-washing, and using a dry cleaning service. Let’s explore each method in more detail.

Hand-washing the Cardigan

Hand-washing is often recommended for delicate cardigans or those made from natural fibers, such as wool or cashmere. Follow these steps to safely hand-wash your cardigan:

Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water. The water should be gentle and not too hot, as excessive heat can shrink or damage the fabric.
Add a mild detergent suitable for delicate items. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as they can cause damage or discoloration.
Gently agitate the cardigan in the soapy water, ensuring that all areas are washed. Be careful not to twist or aggressively scrub the fabric.
After washing, rinse the cardigan thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water to remove any residual detergent.
Press the excess water out of the cardigan gently, avoiding any harsh wringing or squeezing.
Reshape the cardigan while it is damp, carefully stretching it back to its original shape. Lay it flat on a towel to dry.

Using a Washing Machine

If your cardigan’s care label allows for machine-washing, you can follow these steps to clean it effectively using a washing machine:

Read the care label instructions for machine-washing. Check for any specific temperature or cycle recommendations.
Set the washing machine to the appropriate cycle, usually a gentle or delicate cycle, with cold or lukewarm water.
Use a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicate items or woolens. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can leave residue on the cardigan.
Place the cardigan in a mesh laundry bag to protect it during the washing process. This will help prevent stretching or snagging of the fabric.
Once the washing cycle is complete, remove the cardigan promptly from the machine to avoid excessive wrinkling.
Reshape the cardigan while it is still damp, gently stretching it back to its original shape. Lay it flat on a clean towel to dry, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Using a Dry Cleaning Service

If your cardigan is labeled as “dry clean only,” it’s best to entrust its cleaning to a professional dry cleaning service. Follow these steps when using a dry cleaning service:

Read the care label instructions carefully to ensure that dry cleaning is the recommended method.
Research and find a reputable dry cleaning service near you. Look for reviews and recommendations to ensure that they handle delicate items properly.
Inform the dry cleaner about any stains or concerns you may have regarding your cardigan. Communication is key to obtaining the best cleaning results.
Drop off your cardigan at the chosen dry cleaning service and discuss any specific instructions or preferences you may have.
Once the cardigan has been dry cleaned, collect it from the service promptly. Check that it has been properly cleaned and examine for any damages or issues that may have occurred during the process.

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Drying and Storing the Cardigan

After your cardigan is washed and clean, it’s important to take proper care during the drying and storing process to ensure it maintains its shape and quality.

Lay the cardigan flat to dry

Whether you choose to hand-wash or machine-wash your cardigan, laying it flat to dry is the ideal method to prevent stretching or distortion. Avoid hanging the cardigan, as the weight of the wet fabric can cause it to stretch and lose its shape.

Avoid hanging the cardigan

As mentioned above, hanging your cardigan to dry can lead to stretching and deformation of the fabric. This is especially important for heavier cardigans or those made from delicate materials. Hanging can also cause the garment to lose its original shape and create unwanted creases.

Reshape the cardigan while damp

While your cardigan is still damp, gently reshape it by carefully stretching it back to its original shape. Pay special attention to the sleeves, neckline, and hemline, ensuring that they are smooth and properly aligned.

Store the cardigan properly

When your cardigan is completely dry and reshaped, it’s time to store it properly. Fold it neatly and place it in a breathable storage bag or drawer. Avoid packing it too tightly to allow proper air circulation and prevent any potential damage or wrinkling.