Quick answer
To keep your ribbed gloves soft, hand wash them gently in cool water with a mild detergent, dry them flat away from heat, and store them in a breathable bag. Avoid wringing or machine washing to preserve the ribbed texture.
Why ribbed gloves need special care
Ribbed gloves, especially those made from recycled cashmere and wool, have a delicate knit structure that can easily stretch or pill if treated roughly. The ribbing gives them their snug fit and soft feel, but it also makes them more vulnerable to damage from heat, agitation, and harsh chemicals.
When to wash and when to freshen
You don't need to wash your gloves after every wear. Instead, air them out between uses and spot clean small stains. Wash only when they're visibly dirty or after several wears. Over-washing can wear down the fibers faster.
Step-by-step care guide for ribbed gloves
- Step 1: Hand wash in cool water: Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild wool or cashmere detergent. Submerge your gloves and gently squeeze the water through them—do not rub or scrub. Soak for 10-15 minutes. Avoid hot water, which can shrink wool fibers, and never use fabric softener, which can coat the recycled cashmere and reduce its softness.
- Step 2: Rinse and remove excess water: Drain the soapy water and refill with cool water. Gently press the gloves to rinse out all detergent. Repeat if needed. To remove water, roll the gloves in a clean, dry towel and press firmly—do not wring or twist. Wringing stretches the ribbed knit out of shape. Always use the towel-roll method to keep the gloves soft and structured.
- Step 3: Dry flat away from heat: Lay the gloves flat on a drying rack or a dry towel, reshaping them gently to their original form. Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from radiators or heaters. Let them air dry completely, which may take 12-24 hours. Never put ribbed gloves in the dryer. The heat will shrink the wool and ruin the soft texture. Patience with air drying preserves the fit.
- Step 4: Store properly between wears: Fold the gloves loosely and store them in a breathable cotton bag or drawer. Avoid hanging them, which can stretch the cuffs. Keep them away from moths by adding cedar blocks or lavender sachets. Plastic bags trap moisture and can cause mildew. Always use breathable storage to keep your gloves soft and fresh for the next winter.
Our recommendation for soft, durable gloves
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Ribbed Gloves: Made from 95% recycled cashmere and 5% wool, knitted in France with fibers spun in Italy. The recycled cashmere blend gives these gloves a luxuriously soft feel while being more eco-friendly, but the wool content means they still need gentle care to avoid shrinking or felting.
Ribbed Gloves
