The Ultimate Guide to Washing Handknits (Without Ruining Your Favorite Pieces)
You spent hours (or let’s be honest… months) knitting or crocheting something beautiful.
If you’ve been nervous about washing your handknits, you’re not alone. The fear of shrinking, felting, or stretching is real—but the process is simpler than you think.
This blog will walk you through exactly how to wash handknits safely, so your pieces stay soft, wearable, and beautiful for years.
Why Handknits Need Special Care
Handmade items are different from store-bought clothing. Even when a yarn is superwash, we suggest handwashing. We want a hand-knit sweater to last forever.
Most are made with natural fibers like:
- Wool
- Alpaca
- Merino
- Cotton blends
These fibers require gentle handling and the right wool wash to maintain their softness and structure.
Using regular detergent? That’s where things go wrong. Regular detergent often has harsh chemicals.
Step-by-Step: How to Wash Handknits
Here’s the safest and easiest method:
1. Fill a basin with tepid water
You never want to shock your garments.
2. Add a gentle wool wash
Choose something designed for handmade items—ideally a conditioning wash with lanolin. Conditioning Wash has both lanolin and lavender (first prevention against bugs)
3. Submerge and soak
Let your item soak for 10–15 minutes. No scrubbing needed, swoosh instead.
.4. Gently remove excess water
Pick up out of water with your hands like big claws. Don't pull your garment out of the water.
5. Roll in a towel
This removes moisture without damaging fibers; pressing down or dancing on the towel works.
6. Lay flat to dry
Reshape and let air dry completely; this can take days. Direct a fan to your garment to speed up the drying time.
The Secret to Softer Handknits
The biggest upgrade you can make?
👉 Use a conditioning wool wash instead of regular detergent
A product like Conditioning Wash doesn’t just clean—it restores moisture to fibers, helping your knits feel softer after washing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Using hot water
- ❌ Wringing or twisting
- ❌ Hanging to dry
- ❌ Using standard laundry detergent
Avoid these, and you’re already ahead of the game.
How Often Should You Wash Handknits?
Less than you think. Taking off your handknits before eating reduces the need for handwashing.
Wash only when:
- Your item has been worn multiple times
- It has odors
- You’re preparing it for storage (bugs like the dirt (body dander)that you can't see)
Make It Easy (and Enjoyable)
Caring for your handknits shouldn’t feel stressful.
With the right method—and the right wool wash—you can turn it into a simple routine that keeps your projects looking their best. What works best for you - all at once or one at a time?