Knitwear Care Guide
Knitwear is the most worn category in any refined wardrobe. With basic care, it stays in rotation for many seasons. Without it, it loses shape quickly.
By fiber type
Cashmere
See our dedicated Cashmere Care Guide. Short version: hand wash cool, dry flat, fold to store.
Merino wool
Hand wash or wool cycle, cool water, wool-safe detergent. Dry flat. More resilient than cashmere, but same care principles apply.
Cotton blends
Machine wash cold, delicate cycle. Tumble dry low or air dry. Reshape while damp.
Acrylic and synthetic blends
Machine wash cool. Low heat dryer. Easier to maintain but less luxurious to wear.
General principles
- Cold water always
- Gentle agitation
- Lay flat to dry
- Fold for storage, never hang
- Cedar blocks against moths during off-season
Storing knitwear off-season
Wash before storing. Fold cleanly. Store in breathable cotton bags inside drawers or shelves. Avoid plastic which traps humidity. Cedar blocks or lavender sachets keep moths away.
Browse our knitwear
Explore the Montelaire knitwear catalog: Sweaters, Polos, Women's Sweaters.
Frequently asked
Can I dry clean knitwear?
Yes for tailored or structured knitwear. For everyday sweaters, hand or machine washing is gentler and cheaper.
Should I steam or iron knitwear?
Steam only. Direct iron contact can crush the fibers and leave a shine.
How do I fix a stretched sweater?
Soak in cool water with hair conditioner for 30 minutes. Reshape on a flat surface and let dry. The fibers will partially relax back.