What to think about before you buy one more hoodie

Short answer: Before you buy another hoodie, think about what you already own and what you actually need. Look at fit, fabric, washing and how often you will wear it. Here is a simple checklist that helps you buy fewer and better things.

Count what you already have

Take all your hoodies out of the wardrobe and put them in a pile. Many find they own more than they thought and wear only a couple. Ask yourself what the new one should do that the old ones cannot before you put it in the basket.

Think about when you will wear it

A hoodie for the sofa has different needs from one for training or work. Think about how many days a week you will wear it. The more often, the more important it is that the fabric is soft and the fit stays comfortable over a longer time.

Feel the fabric

Look for a fabric that feels soft and dense against the skin, and check whether the inside is smooth or rough. Rough fabric can scratch, and thin fabric can lose its shape. You can read more about bamboo sweatwear if you want to see how soft materials can feel in everyday life.

Fit and length

A hoodie should sit so that you can move freely without it hanging like a sack. Check the shoulder seam, the sleeve length and the length on the body, and lift your arms to feel whether it rides up. If you are unsure between two sizes, think about what you want to wear underneath.

Look at the details

The hood, pocket, cuffs and hem are what wear first. Check that the seams are even and that the cuffs hold without squeezing. The hood should lie neatly and not hang crooked. Small details say a lot about how long the hoodie will keep looking good. Also see bamboo hoodie for men.

Wash it so it lasts

Wash the hoodie according to the care label, usually at a low temperature and inside out so the surface is not worn. Avoid fabric softener, which can leave a film on the fabric, and air dry rather than tumble dry. Do not wash it after every wear unless it is dirty, since that wears the fabric more.

Combine it with the rest of your clothes

A hoodie that goes with many of your other things gets worn more often. Choose a colour that works with what you already have and does not feel too striking. Think too about the socks that go with it, and see socks for men and women for everyday wear.

Buy only if it fills a gap

If you can answer yes that you will wear it at least weekly and own nothing similar, it is probably a good purchase. If not, wait a few days. Many purchases are regretted once the urge has passed, and then you have saved both money and space in the wardrobe.

Frequently asked questions

How many hoodies does a person need?

It depends on how you live, but two to four is usually enough for most days. If you have more than you wear, wear them before buying new ones.

How do I know if a hoodie fits?

You should be able to lift your arms and move without it pulling or riding up. The shoulder seam should sit at the shoulder, and the sleeves should reach the wrist.

Should a hoodie be washed after every wear?

Normally not, unless it is dirty or smells. Let it hang to air between wears and wash it according to the care label when needed.