No Knit’s a No-No If You Keep Your Knit Wits About You
It’s no secret that knitwear is apropos for all seasons. Some of spring and summer’s popular silhouettes include crop or tunic-length sweaters with short or three-quarter length sleeves and round, scoop or V-necklines. Fabrics run the gamut from 100% cotton to raw silk, linen, and cotton/rayon blends.
Still, despite the popularity of knits, many people steer clear of them, claiming that they are “temperamental” to maintain. Common complaints include stretching, loss of shape or fading. But, “with a little know-how, caring for your knitwear garments is not all that difficult,” says Galia Gukaylo, co-owner of the Knitwear Doctor, a Costa Mesa firm that specializes in repair and custom knitting.
Here are some suggestions:
* While sturdy, tight-weave knits with a cotton content can usually withstand the washing machine, for best results it’s advisable to hand-wash most knits with a mild solution in either cold or lukewarm water. Afterward, squeeze out excess water and pat gently in a towel or other cotton material, then lay them on a dry towel on a flat surface so the additional water can be absorbed. Never wring or twist a knitwear garment when it is wet; it will lose its shape.
* Even when they are dry, knitwear garments should not be hung on clothes hangers because they will stretch. Instead, fold them and place them in a drawer or closet.
* Continuous washing can fade colorful knits, and bleaching is harmful to both colorful and natural-tone knits.
* While most acrylic knits can be machine washed on a gentle cycle, save them for cool weather. They don’t “breathe” well and could cause you to perspire in warm weather.
* Loose-weave knits should be dry-cleaned only. They tend to lose their shape from the tension of the washing machine.
* Multicolor knits should be dry-cleaned to avoid “bleeding,” or colors running together.
* Knits that have a wool content (even as little as 10% to 20%) should be dry-cleaned. Washing will generally cause them to lose their shape or shrink.
