This information was provided by specialists in natural fabrics and clothing at Nomad the Label.
As the weather gets colder, it’s safe to say that everyone’s winter wardrobes will be set and ready for the weeks ahead. However, it’s important that you’re giving your knitwear and coats the correct level of care this winter.
As well as extending their longevity, correctly caring for your knitwear and coats can prevent them from becoming worn, bobbly, or frayed. This is why Louisa Warman, a specialist in natural fabrics and clothing at Nomad the Label, has unveiled some of the washing mistakes that are secretly taking years off your winter wardrobe
Over-washing
It’s likely that most of us are over-washing our knitwear and coats, causing pieces to become worn down quickly. Over-washing can weaken the fibres of delicate fabrics, which poses the risk of items becoming bobbly or frayed.
For materials containing wool, it’s important to wash as little as possible. This is because wool is rich in lanolin, meaning that the fabric is naturally self-preserving and requires less frequent washes.
This is why it’s best to limit the number of times you’re washing your winter pieces in the months ahead. Hand-wash when possible and always check the care instructions.
When machine washing your winter garments, it’s important to adjust the settings to a wool or delicates wash. This avoids placing stress on the fibres, keeping them intact for longer.
Not turning fabrics inside out before washing
When placing delicate fabrics in the wash, it’s always best to turn them inside out. This simple trick helps to prevent wear from the washing machine.
No matter how gentle the wash is, it will always place unnecessary stress on the fibres, so it’s important to do what you can to prevent this. Washing pieces in a mesh laundry bag can also help to extend their longevity.
Washing with hot water
Washing our knitwear and coats is often inevitable, especially when pesky spills are involved. This is why it’s important to spot-clean your pieces with detergent and cold water.
Putting your winter wardrobe on a hot wash can create unnecessary stress on the fibres, often resulting in shrinkage. Even lukewarm water has the potential to cause shrinkage, so it’s important to keep the water as cool as possible.
Adding a small amount of hair shampoo or conditioner to the water can also be a fantastic hack when it comes to washing delicate materials. This can help to freshen up fabrics while maintaining their softness.
Creasing materials while drying
After washing, never wring out your knitwear. Instead, give the material a gentle squeeze before laying it as flat as possible on a clean towel.
When drying, hanging can cause delicate materials to stretch from the weight of the water, so it’s important to keep them flat. Never put your coats or knitwear in the tumble dryer, as this will make them increasingly prone to breakage and shrinkage.
Louisa Warman, the founder of Nomad the Label, has commented:
“As we are currently in an age of overconsumption, it’s essential to ensure that we’re correctly looking after our coats and knitwear to ensure their longevity. Placing delicate materials on a hot wash has the potential to take years off a fabric’s lifespan, making it increasingly prone to wear and breakage.
“Natural fibres like wool are incredibly durable when treated correctly, but over-washing and incorrect handling can shorten their lifespan significantly. Wool in particular is naturally self-cleaning thanks to its lanolin content, which is why it’s so important to wash these materials sparingly while following care instructions closely.
“Simple yet effective habits like turning garments inside out before washing, only washing with cold water, and laying pieces flat while drying can have a significant impact in preventing stretching, bobbling, and shrinkage. Investing in affordable tools like a fine-toothed comb or a fabric razor can help to keep your winter wardrobe both looking and feeling fresh for years to come.”
This information was provided by specialists in natural fabrics and clothing at Nomad the Label
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
