One of the household chores that requires the most planning is laundry. In fact, it is not only a matter of programming the washing machine, but also of carrying out a prior separation process to differentiate each of the different qualities of each garment, such as fabric or color, since introducing the clothes indiscriminately into the device could damage them. or discolor it.
It’s important to consider all the cleaning methods available to you before putting certain clothes in the washing machine, as not all of them are suitable for all programs on the machine. Thus, some specify in a simplified way how they should be washed on the label, even if this is not always the case.
For this reason, one of the most complex types of clothing to wash, either due to the delicacy of the fabric or the possible inconveniences that incorrect washing could present, are knitted clothing. These are usually made with natural materials such as wool, which are very sensitive to drastic changes in temperature, heat and humidity.
This type of garment is made by interweaving the threads, which gives it a softer structure, although it is also more susceptible to snags or tears that can damage it during machine washing. There are therefore several ways to wash knitwear without damaging them.
Look for the clothing label
Not all knitwear has a label, but if it does, it’s important to look it up for key washing recommendations. In this way, labels usually include some basic specifications such as:
- Hand or machine wash
- Water temperature indicated
- Drying Instructions
- Ironing recommendations
Hand washing, a safe option
One of the easiest and most effective ways to wash knitwear is to wash it by hand. This way you can be sure at any time whether the materials are damaged or whether the fibers are properly protected.
To do this, immerse the clothes in the coldest water possible. It is important that it does not exceed 30ºC maximum, as hotter water could contribute to clothing shrinking or roughening fibers. After that, use a delicate clothing detergent or neutral soap and stir everything until the garment is soaked with both ingredients.
Do not stir it excessively or rub it vigorously, as the fibers may be damaged or become very rough and stiff. It is best to let the garment soak so that the mixture acts for 5 minutes. Once the time is up, rinse it with cold water to remove any soap residue.
The garment will be completely clean when, upon contact with running water, no more foam will come out. After that, finish drying it, being careful not to snag any part of the garment, as it could easily become deformed. To do this, place it on a flat, well-ventilated surface until it is completely dry.
Machine washing, a risky option
Depending on the knitted items and the specifications of the washing machine, it may be possible to insert them into the appliance. However, this method is a little riskier, even if it is allowed in the manufacturer’s specifications, because other incidents can occur, such as snags that tear the fabrics.
For this reason it is possible to use a washing bag before programming the device, meshes where it is possible to insert knitted garments and avoid possible snags with the drum of the washing machine or with the buttons and zippers of other clothing.
Some washing machines have a specific wash cycle for delicate wool clothing, although not all have this advantage, especially older ones. So start cleaning by looking for the program for more delicate clothes – or for wool if the appliance is equipped with one.
As with hand washing, it is advisable to use the coldest water possible, as high temperatures cause knitted garments to shrink and lose softness. In this way it is possible to use water up to around 30ºC without damaging the clothes.
It is also advisable to use specific detergents for delicate clothes, because both for hand washing and machine washing, normal detergents can be too strong and wear out the fabrics.
Once the program is finished, take the clothes out of the washing machine and avoid putting them in the dryer, as this appliance is too aggressive for knitted fibers and also operates at temperatures too high for natural fibers.
Therefore, carefully drain the excess water and dry it flat, spreading it on a rigid surface like a table, placing a towel underneath to absorb all the moisture. If snagged, the garment could become completely deformed and lose its original appearance.
