Cotton sweaters are ideal for spring, autumn and winter. They are durable and available in varying degrees of heaviness. Unlike wool, cashmere and other fabrics, they can be machine washed. However, in order to keep them in good condition, it is necessary to follow some instructions, for example washing them with the program for delicates and placing them correctly to dry.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Using the Washing Machine
Step 1. Read the label for washing instructions
The company that produced your sweater knows the yarn and how to take care of it. First of all, check the label to see if there are any special instructions. You can find it on the inside side seam of the sweater or under the size label on the back of the neck.
Step 2. Apply a stain remover spray
Consider using a stain remover like OxiClean Versatile on any stains you see before putting the garment in the washing machine. Follow the directions on the package. Sometimes, for example, it is necessary to let the product act on the stain for about ten minutes before washing.
Keep in mind that each stain remover is effective on particular types of stains, so carefully evaluate the most suitable product for your needs
Step 3. Put the sweater in the washing machine
Wash it with other items of the same color. If it's white, wash it with other white clothing. If it's dark, wash it with other dark clothing. If it has a pretty bright color and you've never put it in water, wash it separately the first time to make sure the color doesn't transfer to other clothes.
Step 4. Pour in the laundry detergent
Read the instructions to know the amount to use in relation to the load of clothes to be washed. In most cases, regular laundry detergent or a product for delicates is also suitable for cotton sweaters.
Liquid detergents are generally more effective against grease and oil stains. The powder ones, on the other hand, are perfect for removing dirt or mud
Step 5. Choose the program for the delicates
Turn the washing machine knob or press the button to select the "wool", "hand wash" or "delicate" cycle. Alternatively, choose the shorter schedule. This way you will avoid ruining the sweater with a more aggressive wash.
Step 6. Choose the water temperature
Select cold water if the garment has bright colors, or warm water if it is light. Low temperatures keep the colors unaltered so, if in doubt, select cold water. Avoid the hot one, unless the washing instructions indicate this option.
Part 2 of 3: Dry the Cotton Sweater
Step 1. Dry it at low temperatures for only 5-10 minutes
After washing it, put it in the dryer for a few minutes to soften the fibers. Choose a low temperature program to reduce the risk of it shrinking. Remove it after 5-10 minutes.
Step 2. Place it on a towel or sweater drying rack
Lay it down giving it the shape it takes on your body. In other words, the torso part must be stretched horizontally on a surface, while the arms and shoulders must follow the shape they take when you wear it. Do not hang it, otherwise it may stretch or deform in the shoulder area. However, if you can't do without it, go right.
If you can, dry it by placing a towel on the floor - as long as it's tile, not carpet, or it gets damp as the towel soaks up with water
Step 3. Iron it if needed
Cotton is heat resistant, so it tolerates repeated use of the iron. Read the label on the sweater to see if there are any special ironing instructions.
Part 3 of 3: Keeping the Sweater in Good Condition
Step 1. Wash it by hand
If the label advises you to wash it by hand, it is best to follow this indication, even if the washing machine does not have the program for delicates. To proceed, fill the sink or bathtub with cold water, pour in the laundry detergent, dip the sweater and let it soak. Gently scrub it a couple of times at most, then rinse it off until all the foam is gone.
Hand washing helps extend the life and quality of the sweater because it is more delicate than washing in the washing machine
Step 2. Turn it inside out
This way the likelihood of it getting damaged or lint when you wash it in the washing machine is lower. Just put your hand inside the sweater and gently pull the sleeves to turn the inside out.
Step 3. Pack it in a zippered pillowcase or laundry bag, if it is particularly valuable
With this system you will protect it from damage that could occur during washing in the washing machine. Just grab a clean, zippered pillowcase and slip the sweater into it. Then put everything in the drum, choose the program for delicates and run the machine.
Advice
If the sweater gets stained, try to wipe off the dirt immediately. Consult a special guide to learn the best procedure for removing that type of stain. Follow the directions with the washing method above
Warnings
- Cotton sweaters can lose their original shape if used and washed repeatedly.
- Cotton-blend sweaters tend to produce lint, so avoid putting them in the dryer. You can lay them horizontally to dry them.
