How to care for your hand-knitted garments

Maintaining and washing a hand-knitted garment made from natural wool requires certain special care to ensure that it retains its shape, colour and texture.

How often you need to wash a garment knitted from natural wool depends on several factors, including how much you wear it, what conditions you wear it under, and any specific care instructions the garment may have. However, here are some general guidelines:

1. Light wear: If the wool garment is worn lightly, such as a sweater over a shirt, and is not exposed to stains or sweat, it may require washing only a few times per season. Wool has natural anti-bacterial properties and is fairly odor resistant.

2. Regular use: For garments that are worn regularly but not directly exposed to the skin, such as a scarf or hat, washing may be necessary after 5-7 uses, depending on exposure to dirt and odors.

3. After intensive use: If you have used the wool garment intensively, or if it has been exposed to stains or sweat, you should wash it immediately after use to prevent odors from settling or stains from setting in.

Additional care considerations

* Ventilation: Between uses, allow the wool garment to air out in a well-ventilated area. This can help to freshen it and reduce the need for frequent washing.

* Stain Check: If the garment has a small stain, consider treating just the stain instead of washing the entire garment.

* Manufacturer's instructions: Always check and follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer (which you can see on the yarn or garment label, if you have purchased it already knitted), since some yarns may have specific washing and maintenance requirements.

In general, wool does not need to be washed as frequently as other fabrics, thanks to its natural properties. Washing wool garments only when necessary will help maintain their quality and prolong their lifespan. Here are some tips to keep the fruit of your labor in optimal condition for as long as possible.

Washing

1. Hand wash: This is the best option for natural wool garments. Use cold or lukewarm water and a mild shampoo specifically for wool. Avoid common detergents as they can be too harsh.

2. Do not scrub: Soak the garment in soapy water and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, gently move it around in the water without scrubbing, to prevent damage or shrinkage.

3. Rinse thoroughly: Ideally use a leave-in shampoo. If necessary, rinse the garment with cold water until the water runs clear. You can add a little wool softener in the last rinse if you wish.

4. Avoid wringing: To remove excess water, gently press the garment between your hands or wrap it in a towel and press. Do not twist it, as this can cause it to become misshapen.

Drying

1. Air drying: Lay the garment flat on a towel or foam pad, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Make sure it is in a well-ventilated area.

2. Maintain the shape: Shape the garment with your hands while it is damp to ensure it dries properly. Avoid hanging it, as the weight of the water can stretch the wool.

3. Turn the garment over: For even drying, turn the garment over after a while, making sure it dries on both sides.

Maintenance

1. Storage: Store wool garments in a cool, dry place. Avoid plastic bags, as they can encourage moisture and mold.

2. Moth protection: Moths can damage wool garments. Consider using natural products such as lavender or cedar to repel them.

3. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight: Direct sunlight can discolor and damage wool fibers.

By following these precautions, your hand-knitted garments made from natural wool will remain in perfect condition for a long time.