Knit Care Guide

Caring for Your Knitwear

Invest in Longevity

Knitwear is one of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe. Whether it’s a lightweight summer knit or a textured winter staple, proper care ensures your pieces hold their shape, maintain their colour, and remain comfortable to wear for years. A well-cared-for knit is not only more sustainable but also adds enduring value to your wardrobe.

Below, we’ve outlined the key steps to keep your James Harper knits looking their best season after season.

 

Hand Washing

Machine washing, even on a gentle cycle, can weaken fibres or stretch out knits over time. Whenever possible, wash by hand in cool water with a mild detergent designed for delicates. Allow the garment to soak for about 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly in clean water until no soap remains.

Take extra care not to wring or twist the fabric, as this can cause distortion. Instead, press the water out gently between your hands before moving on to drying.

Wear More, Wash Less

Knitwear doesn’t need to be washed after every wear. In fact, washing too often can shorten the life of your garment by fading colours and wearing down fibres. Instead, refresh your knits between wears: give them time to air out, brush them lightly, and store them properly. This not only extends the life of the garment but also makes wearing it more enjoyable as the fabric softens and moulds naturally over time.

Dry Flat

Drying is one of the most important steps in caring for knits. Wet fibres can stretch easily under their own weight, so hanging a damp knit will almost always lead to sagging shoulders and misshapen hems.

After rinsing, gently press excess water out and then roll the garment in a clean, dry towel to draw out even more moisture. Once most of the water has been removed, reshape the garment and lay it flat on a drying rack or another clean towel. Allow it to air dry completely before folding or storing.

Never tumble dry knitwear, heat and agitation can permanently damage the fibres.

 

Smart Storage

The way you store knitwear makes a noticeable difference in how it ages. Hanging knits can cause them to stretch, especially at the shoulders, which is why folding is always best. Store knits neatly folded in a drawer or on a shelf, avoiding overcrowding to reduce unnecessary pressure on the fibres.

For seasonal storage, such as packing away winter knits over summer, always clean your garments first. Even small traces of dirt or body oils can cause permanent damage if left for months. Use breathable cotton storage bags instead of plastic to allow airflow and prevent moisture build-up.

Care Essentials

Knits naturally develop pilling, those small bobbles that form when fibres rub against each other. While this is part of the life cycle of knitwear, it doesn’t have to shorten its lifespan. Regularly remove pills with a fabric shaver, and for finer fibres such as cashmere or lightweight cotton blends, use a knitwear comb instead. Always work on a flat surface and comb in one direction with smooth, even strokes.

Between wears, a simple brush can go a long way. Using a soft garment brush, gently brush the knit lengthwise. This removes surface dust, dirt, and lint, which can dull the colour over time or even cause abrasion if left to build up. Think of it as preventative maintenance that helps your knitwear age gracefully.

 

Final Word

By giving your knitwear a little extra attention, you’ll enjoy pieces that stay looking sharp and feeling comfortable year after year. Caring for your knits isn’t complicated, it’s about building simple habits that protect the fabric and respect the craftsmanship behind each garment.