How to Wash Knitwear: Keep Sweaters and Cardigans in Shape

How should you wash knitwear? The first step in helping sweaters and cardigans keep their shape is always to read the garment's own care label. If the label permits machine washing, choose a low-agitation delicate or wool cycle and a suitable detergent. For hand washing, handle the fabric gently without pulling or wringing it, and avoid leaving it soaking for long periods. Wet knitwear becomes heavy, so laying the garment flat and reshaping it to dry is usually safer than hanging it up.

Quick answer: Follow the care label, avoid high heat and rough handling, do not twist or wring knitwear, gently remove excess water with a towel, and dry flat if appropriate for the garment. The item's own care label always takes priority over this general guide.

How to wash knitwear: start by reading the care label

“Knitwear” does not describe one specific fibre or fabric composition. Two similar-looking sweaters may need different care because of their fibre blends, knit structures and manufacturing methods. This means no single washing temperature or technique is right for every garment.

To explore Hanezza's current knitwear options, visit the plus-size sweaters and cardigans collection. For a broader overview of choosing knitwear and different knit types, see our plus-size knitwear guide.

At what temperature should you wash knitwear? There is no single washing temperature suitable for every knitted garment. The manufacturer's care label takes priority; if the label does not permit machine washing, choosing a low temperature alone is not enough.

What should you consider when machine washing knitwear?

If the care label allows machine washing, the aim is to limit heat and friction on the fibres.

• Turn the garment inside out.
• Use the low temperature permitted on the label and a gentle or wool cycle.
• Choose a measured amount of detergent suitable for wool or delicate fabrics.
• Try to avoid washing it alongside items with zips, hook-and-loop fasteners or hard accessories that increase friction.
• Do not overload the machine, as crowding can increase stretching and pulling.

If the label says “hand wash only” or “dry clean”, follow that instruction rather than selecting a machine cycle.

How do you hand wash knitwear?

When hand washing is required, use lukewarm water or the temperature specified on the label. Once the detergent is mixed into the water, gently press and release the garment. Rubbing, scrubbing vigorously and prolonged agitation can damage the knit surface and distort its shape.

Do not twist a sweater or cardigan to wring it out during rinsing. You can remove extra water by pressing gently with your hands or by placing the garment between clean towels and applying light pressure.

What is the safest way to dry knitwear?

Wet knitwear retains water and becomes heavier than usual. When hung to dry, this weight can cause a sweater to stretch at the shoulders and along the body. Unless the care label gives different instructions, a more controlled method is to spread the garment flat on a clean, dry towel or drying mesh, gently restoring the natural shape of its shoulders, sleeves and hem.

• Do not place the garment on radiators, heaters or other sources of intense direct heat.
• Avoid leaving it in strong, direct sunlight for long periods.
• Use a tumble dryer only if the care label explicitly allows it.
• Do not fold and put away knitwear before it is completely dry.

How can you maintain the shape of knitwear after washing?

While the garment is wet, gently align shoulder and sleeve seams, straighten the hem and avoid unnecessary stretching as it dries. If ironing is needed, use the care label to determine the appropriate heat and steam settings.

When choosing winter sweaters, knit thickness and layering are also important considerations alongside care. For more information, see our guide to choosing plus-size sweaters for winter. You can also consult the cardigan size and fit guide for advice about comfortable movement and fit.

Seven common mistakes when washing knitwear

1. Using a standard wash cycle without reading the care label.
2. Washing at a higher temperature than necessary.
3. Rubbing or scrubbing the garment roughly.
4. Twisting and wringing knitwear.
5. Hanging a wet sweater to dry.
6. Drying it directly on a strong heat source.
7. Assuming the same washing method works for every knit garment.

How can you check care information for Hanezza knitwear?

Because Hanezza's products may change over time, it would be misleading to recommend one washing temperature for every sweater or cardigan. Check the internal care label of the product you purchased and the current material and care details on its product page. This guide does not replace the garment label.

Frequently asked questions

Can knitwear be washed at 30°C?

A 30°C wash may be suitable for some knitted garments, while others need cooler water, hand washing or different care. Always follow the garment's care label to make the final decision.

Can a knitted sweater go through a spin cycle?

High-speed spinning can put unnecessary mechanical stress on the knit. If the label specifically permits machine washing and spinning, stay within the stated limits; otherwise, choose a gentler method.

Why shouldn't knitwear be hung up to dry?

Wet knitted fabric becomes heavy. This weight can pull down on the shoulders and body, changing the garment's shape. Flat drying reduces this stretching force.

Can a sweater be stretched back after shrinking in the wash?

That depends on the fibre type and the heat and friction involved. A safe and complete return to the original size cannot be guaranteed. Preventing shrinkage by following the care label is more reliable than trying to reverse it later.

How often should knitwear be washed?

There is no fixed number. It depends on how long the garment is worn, perspiration, stains, base layers and the fabric composition. Reducing unnecessary washing may also reduce surface friction.

Summary: The essential steps for caring for knitwear are to read the care label, use gentle mechanical action, avoid twisting or wringing, and dry flat when appropriate. These steps can help sweaters and cardigans maintain their knitted surface and shape for longer.