How to wash sweaters

The holiday season is back and that means it’s time to dust off that ugly holiday sweater from last year’s family or office party. The problem is you haven’t paid much attention to that sweater since last year and it doesn’t pass the smell test once. Don’t worry, we got you covered. Follow this quick guide and you’ll know the ins and outs of how to wash sweaters before the in-laws call you out for the same stain from two Christmases ago.

Fill a sink with cold water and add a gentle detergent.
Turn your sweater inside out – this is especially important for sweaters with decorations like all our favorite ugly sweaters this time of year – and swish around in the sink. Then let it soak for 30 minutes.
Rinse under cool water.
Gently squeeze out the water from the sweater. Do not twist or ring out the water – this damages the fabric. Once you’ve squeezed out the majority of the water roll the sweater up in a dry towel to absorb the excess water.
Lay flat on a dry towel or drying rack and leave until it is fully dry.

How to store sweaters

Outside of sweat, smoke or a stain causing your sweater to smell you can get by wearing the same sweater three or four times without a wash. Now that the holidays are behind us it’s important to store your sweater properly so it’s clean and ready to go for next year.

Never hang a sweater, always keep them folded or rolled up in a drawer or on a shelf.
Wool, cashmere or any other natural fiber sweater needs extra protection and should be stored in a breathable clothing bag and kept out of dark, damp spaces. Insects and moths are attracted to natural fibers which is why the storage bag is important if you’re putting your sweater away for the season. Pro Tip: Add lavender or cedar in the storage bag – these are natural repellants for insects and moths.

Keep all of your clothes fresh and looking sharp with help from this Stain Removal Guide and check back for more helpful laundry tips from the BDS Laundry team.