Sweatshirt and hand washing, can it be done

Short answer: Yes, a sweatshirt can easily be hand washed. Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent, let it soak for about half an hour, press the water out without wringing, and dry it flat. Always check the label in the garment first.

When hand washing makes sense

Hand washing is a good idea when you want to be extra gentle with the garment, or when the machine is full of other things. It also suits a sweatshirt that has only been worn briefly and is not dirty. You avoid the friction from the drum and the many rotations, which over time can wear on the fabric.

Prepare the wash

Fill a clean basin or tub with lukewarm water and add a mild liquid detergent as directed. Stir so it spreads. Turn the sweatshirt inside out so prints and embroidery are protected, and check the pockets. The water should feel comfortable, never hot, because heat can damage the fabric.

Let it soak and press lightly

Place the sweatshirt in the water and press it gently down until it is soaked. Let it lie for five to fifteen minutes, then press gently on the fabric a few times so dirt loosens. Do not rub hard, and avoid scrubbing the cuffs and hood, which should keep their shape.

Rinse thoroughly

Drain the water and rinse the sweatshirt in clean lukewarm water until the suds are gone. Repeat if there is still soap in the fabric, because residue can make it stiff and feel scratchy on the skin. Press the rinse water out rather than lifting the wet garment, since the weight can otherwise pull the sleeves out of shape.

Press the water out without wringing

Do not lift the wet sweatshirt into the air, but press it lightly against the edge of the basin. Lay it on a large towel, roll the towel up and press so it absorbs the moisture. Never wring the fabric, because that can twist the seams and make the hood or cuffs lose their shape.

Dry it lying flat

Lay the sweatshirt flat on a dry towel or a rack and shape the sleeves, hood and edges with your hands. Do not hang it on a hanger, because the weight of the wet fabric will pull the shoulders crooked. Place it away from direct sun and heat, and turn it once so both sides dry evenly.

What about the rest of your clothes

The same method works for other soft clothes you want to go easy on. If your sweatshirt is part of a set, see more in bamboo sweatwear, where many pieces are made for everyday wear and do not need hand washing. A gentle machine program often does the job just as well, so follow the label.

Combine with other items

Once you have water in the basin, you can wash other small items. A soft bamboo hoodie for women can get the same treatment, and so can socks for women, which are easily done in the last rinse. Wash them separately if the colours differ a lot.

Frequently asked questions

Can a sweatshirt always be hand washed?

Usually yes, unless the label says otherwise. Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent, and avoid rubbing or wringing. Always check the label before choosing a method.

How long should it soak?

Five to fifteen minutes is normally enough. Press gently a few times and rinse thoroughly afterwards. Do not leave it for hours, especially if the colours can run.

What is the best way to dry it?

Lay it flat on a towel or a rack away from sun and heat. Shape the sleeves and hood, and turn it once so it dries evenly on both sides.

See our range of men's bamboo sweater.