Sweater Care 101: Keep Cashmere, Wool & Knits Looking New

The holidays are here, which means it’s officially sweater season. From festive family gatherings to winter walks and holiday parties, nothing feels better than slipping into a soft, cozy holiday sweater.

But to keep your favorite knits looking fresh, fluffy, and festive, proper sweater care is essential. With the right approach, your sweaters can last for many holiday seasons to come.

Here is your complete guide to holiday sweater care, covering everything from fabric types and washing tips to storage solutions and professional sweater cleaning.

Know Your Sweater Fabrics Before You Wash

Understanding your sweater’s fabric is the foundation of proper clothing care. Different materials react differently to washing, drying, and storage.

Cashmere Sweater Care

Cashmere sweaters are soft, lightweight, and incredibly warm — but also delicate.

• Hand wash or use a gentle wash cycle

• Always dry flat to prevent stretching

• Avoid heat, which can damage fibers

Wool Sweater Care

A winter classic, wool sweaters provide excellent insulation but require careful handling.

• Wash in cold water only

• Use a gentle detergent for wool

• Never tumble dry to avoid shrinkage

Cotton Sweater Care

Cotton sweaters are durable and breathable, making them great for casual wear.

• Wash on a gentle cycle

• Air dry to reduce shrinking

• Avoid high heat

Acrylic Sweater Care

Often found in budget-friendly holiday sweaters, acrylic is low-maintenance.

• Machine washable in cold water

• Air dry to maintain shape

• Avoid excessive heat

Why fabric matters: Each material responds differently to washing and drying. Knowing your fabric helps prevent shrinkage, pilling, and fiber damage, keeping your sweaters wearable for years.

How to Wash Sweaters the Right Way

When it comes to washing sweaters, gentle care is key.

Hand Wash vs. Machine Wash

• Hand washing is best for delicate fabrics like cashmere

• Some wool and cotton sweaters can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle

• Always check the care label

Use Gentle Detergents

Choose a mild detergent for delicate fabrics. Harsh chemicals can weaken fibers and reduce softness.

Cold Water Only

Hot water is one of the biggest causes of sweater damage. Cold water washing:

• Prevents shrinkage

• Protects colors

• Is more energy-efficient

Proper Sweater Drying

• Never wring sweaters

• Lay flat to dry on a towel

• Avoid hanging, which can stretch fabric

Pro tip: Proper washing is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of your holiday knitwear.

How to Remove Pills and Lint from Sweaters

Sweater pilling is common — especially with wool, cashmere, and acrylic — but it’s manageable. So, how do you handle it?

What Causes Pilling?

Pilling occurs when fibers rub together during wear or washing, forming small fuzz balls.

Best Tools for Sweater Pilling

• Fabric shaver

• Sweater comb

• Use gentle strokes to avoid fabric damage

How to Prevent Pilling

• Wash sweaters inside out

• Use a laundry mesh bag

• Avoid overcrowding the washer

A smooth, pill-free sweater instantly looks newer and more polished — perfect for holiday events.

How to Store Sweaters Properly

Proper sweater storage is just as important as washing.

Choose the Right Storage Space

• Store sweaters in a cool, dry place

• Avoid humidity to prevent mildew

Fold, Don’t Hang

• Always fold sweaters

• Hanging causes stretching and shoulder bumps

Protect Against Moths

• Use airtight containers

• Add cedar or lavender sachets

• Especially important for wool and cashmere

Smart storage keeps your sweaters ready for next winter — no surprises, no damage.

Special Care for Holiday Sweaters

Holiday sweaters often include sequins, embroidery, beads, or glitter, which require extra attention.

Washing Embellished Sweaters

• Always check care instructions

• Prefer gentle hand washing

• Avoid rubbing decorations

Holiday Stain Removal Tips

From wine to hot chocolate spills:

• Act quickly

• Blot (don’t rub) with cold water

• Use a mild stain remover for delicate fabrics

Accidents happen — but with fast action, your festive sweater can still shine.

If you want expert sweater cleaning without the hassle, let OrangeBag laundry service handle it for you.

With OrangeBag, you get:

• Professional garment care

• Fabric-safe washing and drying

• Convenient pickup and delivery

• Perfect for holiday laundry and delicate sweaters

Simply download the OrangeBag app, schedule a pickup, and enjoy fresh, clean sweaters — without lifting a finger.