Quick answer
To keep your knit cardigans soft and shapely, hand wash them in cool water with a gentle detergent, dry flat away from heat, and store folded rather than hung.
Why knit cardigans need special care
Knit cardigans are made from interlocking loops of yarn, which gives them their stretch and softness but also makes them prone to stretching out, pilling, or losing shape if handled roughly. This is especially true for maternity cardigans, which are designed to fit changing body shapes without losing their silhouette. The Celine Contour Cardigan, for example, uses premium merino wool that is breathable and insulating, but it needs gentle care to maintain its flared shape and deep ribbed cuffs. The Softest Rib Cardigan, with its lightweight nursing-friendly design, also benefits from careful washing to keep its sleek fit and snap-front closure working well.
Step-by-step knit cardigan care
- Check the care label: Always start by reading the manufacturer’s care label. Most knit cardigans, especially those with premium fibers like merino wool, recommend hand washing or a delicate cycle. Ignoring this can cause shrinkage or damage. If the label says dry clean only, follow that instruction.
- Hand wash in cool water: Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of gentle detergent (like one made for delicates or wool). Submerge the cardigan and gently swish it for 3–5 minutes. Do not rub or wring the fabric, as that can cause pilling and stretching. Avoid hot water, which can shrink natural fibers like merino wool.
- Rinse and remove excess water: Drain the soapy water and refill with cool water. Gently press the cardigan to push out the soap, repeating until no suds remain. Then, lay the cardigan on a clean towel, roll it up, and press to absorb moisture. Never twist or wring. Rolling in a towel removes water without stretching the knit.
- Dry flat on a mesh rack or towel: Reshape the cardigan to its original dimensions while it’s damp. Lay it flat on a drying rack or a dry towel, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Hanging a wet knit cardigan can cause it to stretch out of shape permanently. Never use a clothes dryer; the heat can shrink and distort the fibers.
- Store folded, not hung: Once fully dry, fold the cardigan and store it on a shelf or in a drawer. Hanging knit cardigans, especially heavier ones, can cause the shoulders to stretch and create bumps. For long-term storage, use a breathable garment bag if you must hang it. If you must hang, fold the cardigan over a padded hanger to reduce stress on the shoulders.
Product care highlights
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The Celine Contour Cardigan: Premium merino wool: breathable, insulating, luxuriously soft Merino wool requires gentle washing to avoid felting and to preserve its natural softness and insulating properties.
The Celine Contour Cardigan
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The Softest Rib Cardigan: Lightweight nursing-friendly cardi with slim sleeve and snap-front closure The snap closures and lightweight rib knit can be damaged by machine washing, so hand washing helps maintain their function and fit.
The Softest Rib Cardigan
