8 simple tips to make them last for years to come
Handmade knits are more than just clothes - they are hours of care, attention, and creativity woven into every stitch. To honour that time and effort, it's worth treating your knitwear with the same thoughtfulness it was made with.
In this guide, I'll share 8 simple tips on how to take care of your knitwear so your handmade pieces stay beautiful year after year.
1. Wash less
Washing is often harder on your knitwear than wearing it. Instead of frequent washes, let your pieces air out between uses. Hanging them outside on a fresh, breezy day works wonders.
2. Hand wash gently
When a wash is truly needed, hand wash in lukewarm water with a wool detergent. My favourite is the one from Eucalan that doesn't have to be rinsed. Avoid scrubbing or twisting - just let your knit soak and move it gently through the water.
3. Dry flat
After washing, place your knit on a clean towel or on blocking mats and let it dry flat. Resist the temptation to hang it up - this will only cause stretching.
4. Store with care
Never hang your knitwear, as gravity will stretch out the fibers over time. Always fold your knit neatly before storing, so they keep their shape.
5. Refresh with steam
If your knit looks a little tired, steaming can revive the fibers. Use a handheld steamer or gently cover your iron with steam on. It smooths the stitches and freshens the fabric.
6. De-pill and brush
Over time, wool may pill or mohair may flatten. A fabric shaver easily removes fuzz, while a mohair brush restores the airy look of fluffy yarns.
7. Seasonal hibernation
When storing your knitwear, fold it carefully into cotton bags with cedar balls or lavender sachets. This protects against moths and keeps everything smelling fresh.
8. Respect the pause
Give your knits a rest between wears. Wool fibers are naturally elastic - by letting them recover, you help your sweaters keep their shape longer (this one I really need to practice!)
Taking care of your knitwear is more than maintenance - it's mindset. When we wash less, store with care, and treat each piece with respect, our knits stay with us for many years. It's a gentle ritual that connects us to the slowness of making and the joy of wearing something truly timeless.