To dry a sweater flat, you should lay it on an absorbent towel.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to dry your sweater flat, incorporating the information from the reference:
Drying a Sweater Flat: A Step-by-Step Guide
Drying a sweater flat is essential for maintaining its shape and preventing stretching. This method is particularly important for delicate knits that can be easily damaged by hanging.
Step 1: Prepare an Absorbent Towel
- Select the Right Towel: Choose an absorbent towel, preferably one that you aren’t worried about potentially getting color transfer on.
- Lay it Flat: Spread the towel on a flat surface, such as a table or countertop.
Step 2: Position the Sweater
- Lay Flat: Carefully lay your damp sweater flat on top of the towel.
- Avoid Wrinkles: Ensure the sweater is spread out smoothly with no wrinkles or folds.
Step 3: Absorb Excess Water
- Roll Up the Towel: If your sweater is holding a lot of excess water, gently roll the sweater up in the towel, applying light pressure.
- Squeeze Out Moisture: This squeezing action will help the towel absorb much of the excess water.
Step 4: Air Dry Completely
- Leave Flat: Allow the sweater to dry completely while laid flat on the towel.
- Change Towel (if needed): If the towel becomes very wet, replace it with a fresh, dry towel to continue the drying process.
- Turn Over: You might choose to flip the sweater over halfway through drying to promote even drying on both sides.
Why Dry Sweaters Flat?
- Prevents Stretching: Hanging a wet, heavy sweater can cause it to stretch out of shape, especially around the shoulders.
- Maintains Original Form: Flat drying helps preserve the sweater's original shape and dimensions.
- Prevents Damage: It is the gentlest drying method and the most suitable for delicate or hand-knitted sweaters.
