To wash a fleece-lined hoodie effectively and maintain its softness, always use the appropriate water temperature and cycle settings.
Caring for Your Fleece-Lined Hoodie
Properly washing your fleece-lined hoodie is essential to keep it soft, prevent pilling, and extend its lifespan. The principles for washing fleece jackets apply directly to fleece-lined hoodies due to the nature of the material.
Key Washing Steps
Follow these steps to wash your fleece-lined hoodie:
- Prepare the Hoodie: Before washing, zip up any zippers and turn the hoodie inside out. This helps protect the fleece lining and the outer fabric from snagging and pilling during the wash cycle.
- Select Detergent: Use a mild laundry detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as these can damage the fleece fibers and reduce its softness and wicking properties.
- Set Water Temperature: According to care guidelines for fleece, you must always select the cold or warm water setting—never hot—when washing fleece. High temperatures can damage, or even melt, fleece fibers, compromising the hoodie's structure and feel.
- Choose the Wash Cycle:
- For fleece-lined hoodies that are lightly soiled, choose the gentle cycle.
- For heavily soiled pieces, use the permanent press cycle, which typically uses a cold rinse and a lower spin speed, being less harsh on the fabric.
- Load and Wash: Place your prepared hoodie in the washing machine. Avoid overcrowding the machine, allowing the hoodie to move freely. Start the selected wash cycle.
Summary of Recommended Settings
Here's a quick overview of the recommended washing machine settings for your fleece-lined hoodie:
| Setting | Recommendation | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Water Temp | Cold or Warm | Prevents damage/melting of fleece fibers |
| Cycle | Gentle (light soil) or Permanent Press (heavy soil) | Protects fabric, reduces pilling and wear |
Drying Your Hoodie
After washing, the best way to dry a fleece-lined hoodie is by air drying. Lay it flat or hang it to dry away from direct heat or sunlight. If you must use a dryer, select the lowest heat setting or an air-only cycle. High heat can damage fleece just like hot water. Remove the hoodie promptly once dry.
By following these steps, you can ensure your fleece-lined hoodie remains a comfortable and cozy staple in your wardrobe.
