Preserving the Softness of Your Sweatshirt: Complete Washing and Care Guide

Introduction

The sweatshirt, this comfort garment par excellence, is our daily cocoon of softness. From the gym to the couch, it wraps us in its cozy embrace. But how to maintain this softness over time and washes? The question deserves to be asked.

In this comprehensive washing and care guide, we'll show you how to keep a sweatshirt soft so it stays as comfortable as the first day.

We firmly believe that every sweatshirt deserves optimal care. With these washing and care tips, we can all enjoy our favorite sweatshirts for many years, while preserving their softness. Every wash counts, every action counts, for the longevity of our clothes and the impact we have on our planet.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

Also read: what material to choose for a sweatshirt ?

Washing Methods

Machine wash

Machine washing your sweatshirt may seem like the easiest method. However, to maintain smoothness, there are some points to consider. First, use a mild detergent, suitable for delicate textiles.

Next, wash your sweatshirt in cold water to avoid damaging it. This simple but effective tip can make a big difference in the life of your sweatshirt. Finally, remember to wash your sweatshirt inside out to protect the outer material.

Hand Wash

If you want to preserve the softness of your sweatshirt for as long as possible, hand washing is an excellent solution. Use Marseille soap and cold water, and be careful not to rub the fabric too much.

A gentle hand wash can not only preserve the softness of your sweatshirt, but also extend its lifespan. After washing, rinse your sweatshirt in cold water until the water runs clear.

Washing Tips

A few additional tips can help keep your sweatshirt soft. For example, avoid washing it too often. Indeed, frequent washing can damage the fabric and make it lose its softness.

In addition, avoid using fabric softener which could clog the fibers of your sweatshirt and reduce its softness. Instead, opt for a natural fabric softener like white vinegar which is gentle on the fibers and helps preserve the softness of your sweatshirt.

Also read: When and how to wash a sweatshirt ?

Preserve the Softness of Sweat

Choice of Laundry

The choice of detergent is crucial to keeping the softness of your sweatshirt. Opt for a gentle detergent, preferably without bleaching agents that could damage the fabric. Marseille soap, for example, is an excellent option.

A gentle detergent respects the delicate fibers of your sweatshirt and helps maintain its softness. In addition, it is generally more environmentally friendly, which is a significant bonus.

Drying Techniques

Drying is a key step to preserving the softness of your sweatshirt. Avoid tumble drying which can shrink your sweatshirt and make it lose its softness. Prefer air drying, in the shade to preserve the color of your sweatshirt.

Air drying allows the fibers of your sweatshirt to relax and regain their natural softness. Plus, it's more energy efficient and gentler on your garment.

Also read: how to perfume your laundry in the dryer ?

Cleaning Tips

To keep your sweatshirt soft, a few cleaning tips can be helpful. For example, you can use a clothes brush to remove lint that might make your sweatshirt rough.

Also, using a natural fabric softener, such as white vinegar, can help maintain the softness of your sweatshirt. In fact, white vinegar acts as a natural softener and helps remove laundry residue that can make your sweatshirt less soft.

Common Problems and Solutions

Shrinkage

Shrinkage is a common problem with sweatshirts. To avoid this, wash your sweatshirt in cold water and avoid tumble drying. If your sweatshirt has already shrunk, you can try soaking it in warm water with a little conditioner to relax it.

Shrinkage is often caused by too high washing or drying temperatures. By washing your sweatshirt in cold water and avoiding the dryer, you can prevent this problem and keep your sweatshirt the perfect size.

Also read: How to shrink a sweater that is too large effectively ?

Discoloration

Fading is another common problem with sweatshirts. To avoid it, there are a few tips to know. First, wash your sweatshirt in cold water. Hot water can cause certain fabrics to fade.

Then add a teaspoon of salt during the first wash to set the color. This grandmother's tip is proven to work and can help preserve the color of your sweatshirt. Finally, always wash your sweatshirt inside out to protect the color.

Loss of Softness

Loss of softness can be due to several factors, such as using too aggressive a detergent or improper drying. To keep your sweatshirt soft, follow the washing and drying tips mentioned previously.

It is also important to rinse your sweatshirt well after washing to remove all detergent residue. These residues can actually make your sweatshirt less soft to the touch.

Also read: How to keep your snuggle hoodie soft ?

Additional Tips

Using Clothing Nets

Using garment nets when machine washing can help protect your sweatshirt and preserve its softness. They prevent the fabric from getting damaged and clinging to other clothes.

Using a clothing net is particularly recommended if you are washing your sweatshirt with other clothes that have zippers or buttons that could damage your sweatshirt.

Care of Cords and Zips

If your sweatshirt has drawstrings or zips, take care to close them before washing to prevent them from getting caught on other clothes. In addition, the cords can be washed separately by hand to prevent them from wearing out too quickly.

It is also important to take care of the zippers on your sweatshirt. To do this, you can lubricate them regularly with a little beeswax to keep them in good condition.

Also read: fluffy sweater, how to remove pilling ?

Conclusion

Taking care of the softness of your sweatshirt is not an impossible mission. With the right washing and care methods, you can ensure that your sweatshirt stays as soft as day one for years. Whether your sweatshirt is cotton or wool, these tips will help you take care of it. So, don't wait any longer, it's time to take action and try these tips to enjoy your favorite sweatshirt even more!

By taking care of our sweatshirts, we extend their lifespan, and we minimize our ecological footprint. Washing by hand, using a mild detergent, drying in the open air are simple actions, but which make a difference. For a soft and durable sweatshirt, sometimes you just need to go back to basics.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

FAQ

How to wash a new sweatshirt ?

When washing a new sweatshirt, it is important to submerge it in cold water with a teaspoon of salt. This helps to fix the color and avoid dirt. Then, put the sweatshirt in the machine on a gentle cycle. Make sure you use a gentle detergent suitable for delicate clothes.

How to wash a sweatshirt to keep it soft ?

To keep your sweatshirt soft, opt for hand washing or a delicate cycle in the machine. Use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softener which can clog the fibers. After washing, let your sweatshirt air dry rather than tumble dry it.

How to wash a sweatshirt in the washing machine ?

When machine washing a sweatshirt, be sure to do so in cold water and on a delicate cycle. Close all zippers and use a laundry net to protect your sweatshirt. Additionally, always wash your sweatshirt inside out to protect the color and material.

When to wash a sweatshirt ?

It is not necessary to wash a sweatshirt after each use. In fact, washing too frequently can cause your sweatshirt to lose its softness and shape. It is recommended to wash a sweatshirt after 3 to 4 uses, or as soon as it becomes soiled.

How to machine wash a sweater ?

Machine washing a sweater requires some precautions to avoid damaging the fabric. Start by turning your sweater inside out to protect the colors and patterns. Choose a gentle cycle and cold water temperature to preserve softness and prevent shrinkage. Use a mild detergent and avoid using fabric softener. Finally, let your sweater dry flat in the open air, as using the dryer could alter its shape and softness.

Washing wool by hand: how to do it ?

Hand washing is often the best option for wool clothing. Start by filling a basin or sink with cold water. Add a small amount of detergent specially designed for wool. Completely immerse your wool garment in the water and swirl it gently to clean it. Avoid rubbing or twisting the wool, as this may damage it. Once the garment is cleaned, rinse it in cold water until all the detergent has been removed. Finally, gently squeeze out excess water without wringing, then let it air dry flat.

Sources

[1] "How to Keep Your Favorite Sweaters in Tip-Top Shape", American Cleaning Institute

Updated October 19, 2023