Brrrr… it is cold outside and not just your typical winter chill. We’re talking unpredictable weather, dangerous dips in temperature, and cozy season in full swing. Whether you’re dodging rain, snow, or high winds, your knitwear becomes a daily staple. And with everything going on… rising prices, shopping a bit more intentionally, and wanting to make what we do buy really last, learning how to care for your sweaters and knits isn’t just practical, it’s essential.
When you’re layering up in your favorite cozy knits, sweaters, cashmere, or wool pieces… you want them not just comfortable, but polished, shape-flattering, and durable too. At TCF, we believe plus size style deserves the same high-end care as any other size, so here are smart, realistic tips to keep your knitwear looking fabulous, season after season.
5 Must-Know Knitwear Care Tips to Keep Your Sweaters in Tip Top Shape
1. Smart Storage = Chic Results
Cleaning and storing your knitwear properly is a key style move.
- Wardrobe Oxygen advises that we skip the mothballs and opt for natural solutions like lavender sachets, cedar balls, or cedar blocks to keep pests away without the harsh smell.
- Fold your heavier knits, don’t hang them, to maintain structure and avoid sagging or shoulder bumps.
- Lightweight knits? Use hangers with wide, rounded shoulders to preserve their drape. Wire hangers are a no-go.
- Store your off-season knits in breathable cotton bags or bins; avoid plastic or vacuum-sealed bags, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
- Want to go extra luxe? Spritz pieces with a knitwear-safe fabric spray or tuck in a few herbal moth repellents like rosemary or bay leaves.
Pro Tip: Clean all knitwear before storing. Moths love perfume, body oils, and unseen food particles, so freshen them up before tucking them away.
2. Washing and Drying With Care
Your knitwear deserves gentler treatment.
- Always check the care label first… especially for blends or embellishments.
- For most wool and cashmere knits, hand wash in cold or lukewarm water with a gentle detergent (look for cashmere or wool-specific formulas).
- Don’t wring! Paul Fredrick tell us to roll the knit in a clean towel to absorb water, then lay flat to dry on a rack or towel.
- For machine-friendly pieces (usually cotton blends), place them in a mesh bag and use the delicate cycle, inside out.
- Invest in a hand steamer to refresh in-between wears and minimize the need for frequent washing.
- Dry cleaners are an option for delicate or structured knits but use them sparingly to avoid fabric wear over time.
Fun fact: Overwashing shortens the lifespan of knitwear. Unless it’s visibly dirty or stretched out, give it a quick steam or air-out instead.
3. Pilling Happens… But It Doesn’t Have to Stay
We all hate those annoying little fuzz balls, but they’re not a style death sentence.
- Pilling is caused by friction, often under the arms, at the sides, or where your bag strap hits.
- Vogue UK advises to use a sweater shaver or cashmere comb to gently remove pills.
- Higher quality knits, think Grade A cashmere or tightly spun wools, pill less and wear longer.
- Try layering a thin tee or camisole underneath your sweater to reduce direct contact with skin and oils, which also helps preserve the fibers.
Tip: After a few wears and shaves, your sweater will pill less as the loose fibers work themselves out. Be patient and gentle… it pays off!
4. Shape, Fit & Flattery Matter
Plus size fashion is about fit, not compromise, so keeping your knits in shape matters just as much as how they feel.
- Heavier or oversized knits? Fold them and store flat to avoid them stretching out or losing their shape.
- When washing, reshape the garment while damp, tug lightly to bring back its original silhouette before drying flat.
- Don’t hang chunky or longline knits, gravity is not your friend here.
- If you do hang a knit, make sure it’s a structured, lighter piece and use a wide, padded hanger that supports the shoulders.
Knitwear that hugs and drapes in the right places keeps your silhouette polished, not bulky. It’s about comfort and confidence.
5. Seasonal Transitions & Long-Term Love
When winter turns to spring (yes, it eventually will), give your knitwear the care it deserves before storage.
- Jenni Kayne suggests for you to wash or refresh every piece before packing it away, this keeps it clean and deters pests.
- Use lavender, cedar, or herbal sachets in drawers or bins to naturally deter moths.
- Keep your knitwear in a cool, dry place, under-bed storage, linen closets, or high shelves in your wardrobe all work.
- Avoid plastic bins unless they’re ventilated. Airflow is key to keeping your pieces fresh and wearable when the chill returns.
Reminder: Sustainable style starts with proper care. Making our fashion last is a statement and a savings.
Your knitwear is more than just cozy; it’s an essential part of your style story. Whether it’s that perfect off-the-shoulder sweater, a bold knit dress, or your go-to layering pullover, how you care for your pieces impacts how they serve you.
With smart storage, gentle wash habits, and a little attention to detail, your knits will not only last longer but look and feel fabulous on your curves every single wear.
Did I miss a tip you swear by? Have a question about knitwear fit, styling, or specific care for plus size pieces? Drop it in the comments!Let’s make knitwear care feel like a luxury, not a chore.
