How to care for knitwear: Tips to keep kids clothing looking new

 

Keeping knitwear for little ones looking fresh and cozy doesn’t have to be tricky. Whether it's adorable baby girl clothes or rugged toddler boy clothes picked up at your favorite kids clothing stores—or treasured knits from a boutique like knitNknot—the right care makes all the difference. Here’s a gentle guide to help your child's knitwear stay soft, vibrant, and wearable for longer. When shopping at kids clothing stores, investing in adorable baby girl clothes or stylish toddler boy clothes, especially cosy knitwear from brands like knitNknot, you’ll want every piece to stay soft, clean, and fresh as new. With gentle care and smart habits, you can extend the life of those sweet sweaters and cardigans.

1. Read the Label First
Always check care labels. Fabrics like wool, cashmere, organic cotton, or merino may require different care routines. Labels often recommend hand washing or low‑temperature machine cycles to avoid shrinking or felting.

2. Wash Only When Needed
Knitwear doesn’t require frequent washing—limiting it reduces pilling and fiber weakening. Most hand‑knits or wool pieces only need to be laundered after several wears or at the end of the season. For delicate baby girl clothes and toddler boy clothes, hand wash in cold water with a gentle or wool detergent—never hot, never bleach. Knitwear rarely needs washing after every wear. You can usually air garments out or spot‑clean light marks instead. When it does need washing:

3. Drying: Flat Is Best
Never tumble dry knitwear—it can shrink and warp the fibers. Instead gently press water out using a clean towel—never wring or twist.

Lay the garment flat on a towel or drying rack, reshaping it while damp. Dry away from direct heat or sunlight to avoid fading and stiffness.

4. Store Smartly
Proper storage extends the life of knitwear. Fold sweaters and other stretchy items to prevent them from losing shape. Store in a cool, dry place, and consider using lavender or cedar balls to deter moths .

5. Pilling & Fabric Shaving
Friction can lead to pilling especially in areas like under the arms. Reduce friction by rotating wear and avoiding backpacks or belts rubbing against the fabric. Remove pills gently with a fabric shaver, sweater stone, or even a soft razor—take care not to damage the knit.

6. Proper Storage
Fold knitwear carefully rather than hanging to preserve its shape—especially important for heavier, stretch‑prone pieces. Store in a cool, dry place. Add lavender sachets or cedar balls to naturally repel moths.

7. Frequency & Freshening
ool and natural fibers have antimicrobial properties, meaning you can usually avoid frequent washes. Rotate knits so each garment has time to rest between wears, which helps maintain freshness and longevity.

knitNknot
Brands like knitNknot design with both style and durability in mind. Their pieces—whether featuring pastel dresses for baby girls or cozy pullovers for toddler boys—are crafted from high‑quality natural fibers that respond well to gentle care. Paired with proper washing, drying, and storage, knitNknot items can retain their shape and softness over many wears. And when shopping at kidsclothing stores, choosing items made from cotton, merino, or cotton‑blend knits provides breathable, soft comfort for sensitive young skin.