Buying a quality knitted jumper made in Ireland is a wonderful way to have a bit of the heritage of the country. Ireland is known for its artisans producing a variety of different knitted jumpers and cardigans.
These jumpers can be made from traditional wool, or they can also be made from cashmere and silk blends. Caring for these jumpers starts with reading any information provided by the manufacturer on how to correctly wash, dry, and remove stains from these garments. As wool jumpers are very popular for both men and women, the following tips help you to keep your jumper in top condition even through years of wear.
A Little TLC
It is critical to care for a knitted jumper using the correct methods. These items are an investment, and with just a bit of advanced planning, you can care for these items at your home without the need to pay the price of taking them to a cleaner.
Keep in mind, wool is naturally water and stain repellent. Immediately removing any spills can help to reduce the need to wash the jumper. However, anything that is sticky will need spot cleaning to avoid the surface attracting dirt.
If you are going to wash a wool knitted jumper, here are the basic steps to follow:
- Pre-soak – soak the wool jumper in fresh, clean, and soap-free cold water for at least an hour or two before washing.
- Washing – use a detergent designed for washing wool and use cold or lukewarm water, never hot water. If you are washing by hand, avoid rubbing the surface, wringing, or twisting the sweater. Hot water and excessive rubbing can cause felting, or an actual shrinking of the fibers that permanently change the shape and size of the sweater.
- Lay flat to dry – always dry wool sweaters flat on a towel. You can also put a towel on top and press very gently without rubbing the surface.
Caring for a wool jumper will ensure you have a beautiful jumper that will last you for years. Always store jumpers and cardigans folded; never hang them up as this will stretch the sweater out of shape.
