Hand washing knitwear is a gentle way to clean delicate items like sweaters, ensuring they stay in great condition.
Simple Steps for Hand Washing
According to one method, hand washing knitwear involves just a few key steps, starting with selecting the right basin and using cold water.
Preparing to Wash
- Choose your basin: For larger items like an adult sweater, use a clean sink. If you're washing something smaller, a bowl will work well.
- Fill with cold water: Always use cold water to prevent shrinking or damaging the fibers.
- Add wool wash: Pour in a suitable wool wash or gentle detergent designed for delicate fabrics.
The Washing Process
Once your basin is prepared:
- Submerge the item: Gently place your knitwear into the water, making sure it's fully saturated.
- Let it soak: Allow the item to soak. The reference suggests letting it sit for 20 minutes or even several hours if forgotten. This gives the detergent time to work without aggressive agitation.
- Remove water: Carefully lift the item out of the water. Do not wring it out, as this can stretch and damage the fibers. Instead, gently squeeze out the excess water.
Drying
The drying process is crucial for maintaining the shape of your knitwear.
- Lay flat: Lay the item flat on a clean, absorbent towel. You can often roll the item gently in the towel to absorb more moisture.
- Shape: Reshape the garment while it is lying flat, smoothing out any wrinkles.
- Air dry: Leave the item flat in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat or sunlight, until completely dry.
By following these steps, you can effectively hand wash your knitwear, keeping it looking its best for longer.
