Quick answer
Wash fleece cargo sweatpants in cold water on a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low or air dry to keep the fleece soft and prevent pilling.
Why fleece needs special care
Fleece is a brushed fabric that creates a soft, warm nap. That nap can mat down or pill if washed with harsh agitation or high heat. Gentle washing and low heat drying keep the fleece feeling buttery soft against your child's skin.
Before you start: check the label
Always check the care label inside the sweatpants. Most fleece pants, including the Fleece Cargo Sweatpants from KicKee, are machine washable. The label will confirm water temperature and drying instructions.
Step-by-step care instructions
- 1. Turn inside out and zip pockets: Turn the sweatpants inside out to protect the outer fleece surface. Close any zippers or buttons. This reduces friction and prevents snags. Common mistake: washing right-side out can cause pilling on the fleece surface.
- 2. Wash in cold water on gentle cycle: Use cold water (below 85°F / 30°C) and a gentle or delicate cycle. Use a mild detergent; avoid fabric softener, which can coat the fleece fibers and reduce softness. Checkpoint: hot water can shrink fleece and damage the brushed nap.
- 3. Dry on low heat or air dry: Tumble dry on low heat or hang to air dry. Remove promptly to reduce wrinkles. High heat can melt synthetic fleece fibers or cause shrinkage. Common mistake: over-drying on high heat makes fleece stiff and less cozy.
- 4. Fluff and store flat or folded: Once dry, give the sweatpants a gentle shake to fluff the fleece. Fold or hang in a drawer. Avoid heavy stacking that can compress the nap. Checkpoint: storing compressed can flatten the fleece over time.
Products mentioned
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Fleece Cargo Sweatpants in Cedar: The fleece is brushed and toasty against the skin, the relaxed legs leaving room for play. Brushed fleece needs gentle care to keep that soft feel and prevent matting over time.
Fleece Cargo Sweatpants in Cedar
