Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1541377
Sweater Weather FOREVER Wash occasionally. Because of their fragile fibers, sweaters don't need frequent washing. Depending on the material, it's best to wash them every three to five wears—unless they're soiled. Keep sweaters fresh between wears by airing them out before putting them away, spot-treating stains, and wearing undershirts to protect against dirt, oil, and sweat. Launder with care. Most wool sweaters call for dry cleaning, but if the tag says to handwash, submerge yours in a sink or basin filled with cold water and ½ teaspoon of gentle detergent. Lightly agitate the item, let it soak for 15-30 minutes, and then rinse with cool water. For machine-washable sweaters, turn inside out, place in a mesh bag, and run a delicate cycle with cold water. Immediately after washing, roll it in a clean towel, press out extra water, and lay flat to dry. Treat imperfections. Sweaters rub and cause pilling over time, especially around the elbows and sleeves. Never tug on pills; remove them with a new razor, pumice stone, or fabric shaver. See a snag or stray thread? Turn your sweater inside out and carefully pull the snag through to the other side of the sweater with a sewing needle, wire needle threader, or crochet hook, and knot in place. Store correctly. Hanging sweaters can result in misshaping, warping, and stretching. Instead, neatly fold or roll and keep them on shelves or in drawers. At the end of sweater season, properly launder and dry all knits and put them in a breathable cotton bag with a zipper. Include a lavender sachet or cedar blocks to deter bugs, and store in a cool, dry area. Warm, cozy sweaters are a fall staple, but they demand some TLC. Unravel tips to keep your knits looking brand new season after season.