The Science of Knitting. Literally.
Before we delve into all the tricks and tips on how to better take care of our knitwear, let’s have a quick look at a new lens through which researchers view knitting (despite the latter being considered an ancient craft): as a computer algorithm.
In this context, what is emphasized is that “a knitter follows a prewritten protocol, or pattern, to create a 2D or 3D shape with the desired aesthetic or function, and the pattern acts as an algorithm, determining the knitted object’s geometry and elasticity”. So, a potential new role of knitting in the technological world is currently being investigated. Cool, right? This is definitely a new era!
Knitwear Season
When the temperature is low and the nights become chillier, you know it’s that time of year: open your closet and take out your sweaters – totally perfect for snuggling.
With just a little bit of care, knitwear will be the most durable pieces in your wardrobe but the real question, here, is: what’s the right way to look after them so that they can reach a really long life?
It’s important to state that each piece of knitwear has different needs depending on its blend, so, the first step needed is to check the care label inside the garments and the second one to follow these simple steps.
TIPS & TRICKS
#1 Washing
Firstly, washing your knits in the right way is crucial to their longevity. Unfortunately, if you just throw your knitwear in the washing machine, it’s probably going to come out shrunken.
A safe way to make sure your knitwear will live a long life and last you for many years is hand washing. You need to fill the sink with lukewarm/cold water, add some gentle detergent and gently wash. Remember to avoid at all times hard rubbing because it can cause surface wear and pilling; instead, lightly dunk your knits and swirl them around slowly. Then, rinse with plain water before drying.
How Often should you Wash them?
Before you add any of your knits to your laundry basket, ask yourself if it’s absolutely necessary to be washed. If you’ve only worn them a couple of times, then you can definitely wear it again.
#2 Drying
How you dry your knitwear is super important in maintaining the shape of your pieces. Don’t wring out the extra water, right after you’ve washed your knits because this may stretch and warp their fibers. Gently squeeze out the excess water before laying your garment flat on a towel. Then, try rolling up the towel (imagine a burrito!) with your knit together and squeeze once more (gently).
After the extra water is gone, gently ease your knit back into shape; that shouldn’t be too hard since the yarn is going to be pliable when wet. Now, leave your knits to dry flat on the drying rack to prevent stretching and remember: don’t put your knitwear near any heaters because heat is knits’ worst enemy.
#3 Storage
In order for you to keep your knitwear looking great and in-shape for a long, long time, storing your knitted garments in a drawer or cupboard is highly recommended. If you fold your knits and put them in a cool, dark place (away from sunlight), they will remain looking good for years.
#4 Hanging
Avoid hanging your knitwear because this could cause stretching, especially at the shoulders. Though, if you absolutely need/prefer to hang your pieces, you should do that in a careful way: hang your lightest (weight-wise) knits or make sure to fold your knits in half and hang them over the hanger.
How to Prevent Moths
Except for the heat, another deadly enemy to your knits are moths: they can eat your knitwear destroying them forever, and they have excellent taste, like you: they love natural fibers such as cashmere, wool, silk, cotton. So, be careful.
To fully avoid them, leave some room between your knitted pieces because tight spaces are super attractive to them. Also, clean your knits when they have small amounts of food on them and try adding some cedar to the inside of your closet which you ought to thoroughly clean regularly.
How to Prevent Pilling
To prevent your knits from pilling, try limiting friction: for example, bags or belts which rub against your garments. Another tip is to turn the latter inside out before washing them.
Remember, though: pilling is something natural for a lot of fibers. So, if it does occur, just go with the flow and accept it as a new characteristic of your garment!
To Sum Up
- Always follow the piece’s care instructions.
- Hand-wash your knitwear using cold/ lukewarm water and a gentle detergent.
- Avoid unnecessary washing.
- Dry your knits by rolling out the extra water with some help from a towel and by laying them flat on a drying rack away from any heaters.
- Fold your knits and put them in your drawers.