Quick answer
Wash your Encima Fleece Pullover inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle, then air-dry it flat or hang it. Skip fabric softener and heat, which cause pilling and flatten the recycled fleece. Store it folded on a shelf rather than on a hanger to keep the snap-front shape intact.
Why recycled fleece needs a gentler routine
The Encima Fleece Pullover is made from 100% recycled midlayer fleece, a material that traps warmth with a brushed surface. That brushed texture is also what makes fleece vulnerable to friction pilling and heat damage. High heat and harsh detergents break down the fibers, so the pullover loses loft and feels scratchy. A low-intervention wash and air-dry routine protects the fabric without extra effort. Treat it like a technical layer, not a heavy cotton sweatshirt.
Sort and prep before washing
Close the snap front and turn the pullover inside out. This keeps the snaps from snagging other garments and reduces surface friction against the drum. Wash it with similar lightweight items, not heavy denim or towels with zippers. Check pockets for tissues or small items, and pre-treat any visible stains with a dab of mild liquid detergent before the main wash.
Choose the right detergent and cycle
Use a mild, liquid detergent free of bleach, dyes, and fabric softener. Powder detergents can leave residue in fleece fibers. Select a cold-water gentle or delicate cycle with a low spin speed. If your machine has a fleece or hand-wash setting, use it. For small loads, you can also hand-wash in a sink with cool water and a capful of gentle detergent, then rinse until the water runs clear.
Dry without heat
Lay the pullover flat on a drying rack or hang it on a padded hanger to air-dry. Avoid direct sunlight and radiators. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove the pullover while it is still slightly damp. High heat is the fastest way to shrink or warp recycled fleece and set in wrinkles.
Store it so it keeps its shape
Fold the Encima Fleece Pullover and store it on a shelf. Hanging a fleece for months can stretch the shoulders and distort the snap placket. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sun. For long-term storage, use a breathable cotton bag rather than vacuum-sealed plastic, which can trap moisture and cause odors. If you store it with other outdoor gear, avoid cramming it against sharp buckles or tools.
Step-by-step fleece care checklist
- 1. Prep the pullover: Close all snaps and turn the fleece inside out. Brush off loose dirt or pet hair with a soft brush. Checkpoint: snaps closed, no visible debris left on the surface.
- 2. Wash cold and gentle: Use a mild liquid detergent with no bleach or softener. Select a cold, gentle cycle with low spin. Common mistake: using fabric softener, which coats fibers and reduces breathability.
- 3. Air-dry flat or hang: Lay the pullover flat on a rack or hang it to dry away from heat and direct sun. Checkpoint: fabric feels dry to the touch, not damp at the seams.
- 4. De-pill if needed: If pills form under the arms or at the cuffs, gently run a fabric shaver or fine sweater comb over the area. Common mistake: pulling pills off by hand, which can stretch the fleece.
- 5. Store folded: Fold the pullover and place it on a shelf in a cool, dry spot. Avoid hanging for long periods. Checkpoint: shoulders and snap placket stay flat and undistorted.
Product facts
- Encima Fleece Pullover - Women's: The Encima Fleece Pullover is a snap-front, lightweight fleece made from 100% recycled midlayer material. The snap front means you should close it before washing to prevent snags, and the recycled fleece benefits from cold-water washing to preserve the fiber.
