Prevent Shrinkage
How to Keep Your New Clothes Looking That Way…
The holidays often mean the gift of a new sweater or two, and with clearance sales, some extra pieces for your wardrobe. To keep your new clothes looking new and fitting right, treat them with care. Follow these simple steps to help prevent shrinkage and keep your new clothes looking great.
Delicate Items Like to Be Dry Cleaned
First, always read the garment’s washing tag. If fine items such as silk or rayon suggest you “dry clean only,” then you’re safest doing so. One option to regular dry cleaning is to hand wash the item with an appropriate gentle cleanser. However, dry cleaning your item guarantees a nicer finish with less wear and tear.
Wash Before Wearing
It’s a good idea to wash or professionally dry clean your new clothes before wearing them. Sizing, a chemical, is added to clothing to make it hang better in the stores. Some people are mildly allergic to sizing, so to avoid discomfort, always wash a gift before wearing it.
Sweaters Need Special Attention
Your new knitwear will stay beautiful for years to come with these simple procedures:
- Dry cleaning
Make sure your cleaner has experience with fine fibers, such as cashmere. Notify your cleaner if you’re dropping off cashmere or cashmere with silk. Ask if your cleaner does blocking. This means that the cleaner will “block” the garment to its original size after cleaning. Blocking helps prevent shrinkage and disappointment later. - Hand washing
First, choose an appropriate gentle cleanser. Wash each garment separately in lukewarm water. Squeeze suds gently through the fabric—NEVER rub. Rinse thoroughly, at least three times, and gently squeeze, but don’t twist. Dry it naturally on a flat towel. Don’t expose fine knitwear to direct sunlight, especially white sweaters; it will bleach the material. When your garment is dry, you may press it using a damp cloth to smooth out wrinkles, but NEVER iron.