Caring for knitwear starts with the garment’s label and construction. Wool, cotton and blended knits may require different treatment, even when they look similar. Plan washing, drying and storage as one routine, so a freshly cleaned sweater does not lose its shape while wet or become compressed in a crowded drawer.
Decide whether washing is needed
Drake’s knitwear-care guide recommends resting natural-fibre pieces between wears and notes that airing may be sufficient between washes. Check the neckline, cuffs and underarms for soiling before deciding. Airing does not remove a visible stain or replace cleaning when the garment needs it.
Read the complete care label, including drying instructions, before beginning. If the label is missing or contradicts the product page, ask the maker. Do not assume that a washing method suitable for one wool sweater also suits a cotton blend, decorative trim or an unfamiliar knitted structure.
Use the permitted washing method
Drake’s distinguishes styles suited to professional cleaning or gentle hand washing from those that permit a wool machine cycle. Follow your garment’s instructions for method, temperature and detergent. A machine’s wool setting is not permission to wash a garment whose label specifies otherwise.
Avoid treating a delicate knit like a towel: vigorous rubbing, twisting or wringing is not a useful shortcut. Where washing is permitted, handle the garment gently and support it when moving it while wet. Prepare the drying space first, rather than leaving the knit hanging while looking for somewhere to put it.
Support the shape while it dries
Woolmark’s drying guidance recommends drying wool knitwear flat, gently arranging it into shape on a suitable towel or drying mesh. Hanging a wet knit can stretch it under its own weight. Keep it away from direct heat and strong sunlight.
For a washable piece, gently press excess moisture into a clean towel before laying it out. Arrange the sleeves and body without pulling them longer. Do not put it on a radiator to hurry the process. Tumble drying is appropriate only when the specific care instructions allow it; some wool garments expressly do.
Fold clean, dry knitwear for storage
Woolmark distinguishes folded knits from hanging woven garments. Let the sweater dry fully, fold it gently and leave enough room that you can lift it out without dragging it past rough hardware. Check for stains before packing it away for a season.
When dressing again, reassess knitwear beneath a tailored jacket. Use our separate wool jacket-care guide for woven tailoring, and browse Watches & Wear for more clothing care.