Knit Care Guide
A little care goes a very long way with wool
Our Scottish knitwear was designed to be worn for years, not just a season.
Made from premium Scottish-spun lambswool in small batches, these are pieces intended to soften, settle and become more beautiful with time and wear.
Unlike synthetic fibres, wool is naturally breathable, antibacterial and odour resistant, which means it rarely needs frequent washing. In most cases, fresh air and gentle care are all it needs.
We also have a small confession: we dislike scratchy oversized care labels as much as you probably do. Rather than sewing half a novel into the side seam of your cardigan, we created this digital guide instead, allowing us to share far more useful advice on caring for your knitwear.
Wool wasn't designed to be washed every week
For generations, wool jumpers were simply worn.
They were aired on washing lines, folded carefully at the end of winter and passed between family members. Frequent washing wasn't part of the routine because it wasn't necessary.
Modern clothing has trained us to think everything needs washing after every wear. Wool works differently.
The natural structure of wool fibres helps release odours, regulate temperature and resist bacteria, meaning a good wool knit can often be worn many times before it needs anything more than a little fresh air.
1. Air before you wash
The easiest way to care for wool is often to do less.
After wearing, hang your knit somewhere with good airflow for a few hours or overnight. A spare room, utility room or sheltered outdoor space works perfectly.
You'll often find this is enough to refresh it completely.
For most wearers, airing between wears will dramatically reduce how often washing is needed.
2. Wash only when genuinely necessary
Most knitwear is damaged not by wearing it, but by washing it unnecessarily.
When your knit does need cleaning:
- Hand wash in cool water using a wool-specific detergent
- Avoid soaking for extended periods
- Gently squeeze water through the fibres rather than rubbing
- Rinse carefully in cool water
If you choose to use a washing machine, only use a dedicated wool cycle and always follow your machine manufacturer's guidance.
3. Heat, movement and gravity are the enemies
This is the one thing worth remembering.
Most knitwear damage comes from one of three things:
Heat
Hot water, radiators and tumble dryers can cause shrinkage and fibre damage.
Movement
Aggressive washing, rubbing and twisting can felt wool fibres together.
Gravity
The weight of water can stretch a wet knit out of shape.
Once washed, gently roll your knit inside a clean towel to remove excess moisture, then lay flat to dry on a towel or drying rack.
Never hang wool while wet.
4. Pilling is normal
Those little bobbles that occasionally appear aren't a sign of poor quality.
Pilling occurs when loose surface fibres rub together during wear, particularly under arms, along side seams and where bags or seatbelts create friction.
Natural fibres often pill more during the early stages of wear because they haven't been heavily treated with synthetic finishes.
This usually settles over time.
A knitwear comb or fabric shaver will quickly remove pills and keep your knit looking its best.
5. Storing your knitwear
When storing knitwear between seasons:
- Ensure garments are clean before storage
- Fold rather than hang
- Store somewhere cool and dry
- Consider cedar wood blocks or lavender sachets as a natural moth deterrent
One personal tip from me: I keep many of my own knitwear pieces individually stored in large zip-lock bags during spring and summer.
It may not be the most glamorous storage solution, but after hearing enough moth horror stories over the years, I find it offers an extra layer of protection and peace of mind, particularly for pieces I won't be reaching for regularly
What about moths?
Moths are usually attracted to natural fibres that contain traces of skin cells, food residue or body oils.
The best protection is surprisingly simple:
- Store knitwear clean
- Avoid leaving unworn knits crumpled in wardrobes for long periods
- Check stored garments occasionally
- Keep wardrobes well ventilated
Most moth problems are easier to prevent than fix.
Why we chose lambswool
The wool used in our knitwear is spun in Scotland using traditional methods that prioritise quality, longevity and comfort.
Lambswool is prized for its softness, warmth and durability. With wear, it gradually relaxes and softens further, becoming more comfortable over time.
Unlike many synthetic fabrics, wool is renewable, biodegradable and naturally high-performing without the need for chemical treatments.
It's one of the reasons we believe well-made knitwear remains one of the best investments in a thoughtful wardrobe.
Made to be worn
We don't believe beautiful clothing should spend its life being "saved for best".
Wear your knit