Knitwear Care Guide

By Drake's

Jul 29, 2026

Knitwear Care Guide

Good knitwear, made properly and worn often, should age gracefully, becoming softer and more characterful over time.

Whether it's a brushed Shetland, a densely knitted Submariner or a lightweight cotton style for warmer weather, a little care goes a long way.

Wearing

Natural fibres benefit from being given time to rest. Rather than wearing the same piece day after day, allow it a little time between outings to recover its shape and release any absorbed moisture. A small rotation will do more for its longevity than you might expect.

Washing

Knitwear rarely needs washing as often as other garments. More often than not, a little fresh air is all that's required.

Always follow the instructions on the care label. Many of our wool knitwear styles are best dry cleaned or washed by hand in cool water using a gentle wool detergent, while some can be machine washed on a delicate wool cycle. Avoid hot water and excessive agitation, which can cause fibres to felt and garments to shrink.

Drying

After washing, gently press out any excess water using a clean towel before reshaping the garment and laying it flat to dry. Never hang wet knitwear, as the weight of the water can cause it to stretch and lose its shape.

Storage

We recommend storing knitwear folded rather than hanging, both during the season and when packed away for longer periods. Natural fibres can attract moths, so keeping garments clean and storing them alongside cedar wood or lavender sachets can offer additional protection.

The best knitwear should bear the marks of a life well lived. If properly cared for, it will only improve with age, becoming softer, more comfortable and increasingly difficult to do without.

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