Check the label
Follow the care label when there is one. If it is missing or unreadable, treat the piece as delicate: wash it by hand in cold water and dry it flat. Wool, cashmere and other animal fibres do not tolerate heat, friction or long soaking.
Fold, do not hang
A hanger pulls on the shoulders and leaves marks. Fold knitwear and keep it in a drawer or on a shelf, without pressing it under heavy items. Let it air for a few hours after wearing, and wash it only when it needs it: wool and cashmere do not need washing after every wear.
Washing by hand
Fill a basin with cold water, no warmer than 30 °C, and add a detergent made for wool or delicates. Turn the piece inside out, press it gently in the water for a few minutes and rinse in cold water of the same temperature. Never wring or twist. Press the water out, then roll the piece in a clean towel. If the label allows machine washing, use the wool programme with a low spin, in a mesh bag. Avoid bleach and tumble drying.
Drying
Lay the piece flat on a dry towel and reshape it by hand. Keep it away from radiators and direct sunlight. A wet knit hung on a line stretches under its own weight.
Removing bobbles
Bobbles form where the fabric rubs, under the arms and along the sides. They are normal, and fine yarns such as cashmere often form more of them at first. Lay the piece flat and remove them with a wool comb or a fabric shaver, using light strokes. Do not pull them off by hand, as this can damage the yarn.
Protecting against moths
Moth larvae feed on wool, cashmere and other animal fibres, and are drawn to traces of sweat and food. Before storing a piece for the season:
- wash it, or at least air it well;
- make sure it is completely dry;
- keep it in a closed box or a breathable garment bag, with cedar wood or lavender, which deter moths without eliminating them;
- check your storage from time to time.
Store knitwear in a cool, dry place. If you find small holes or fine webbing, wash or dry clean the affected pieces and keep them apart from the rest.