Quick Answer

Wash baby knitwear in cool water on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent, then lay flat to dry. Avoid wringing, high heat, and fabric softener to prevent shrinkage and pilling. This method works for cardigans, jumpers, and wraps alike.

Why Knitwear Needs Special Care

Baby knitwear—whether a cozy cardigan, a soft jumper, or a snuggly wrap—is often made from delicate fibers that can shrink, stretch, or pill if handled roughly. Organic cotton knits, like those from Jamie Kay, are gentle on sensitive skin but still require careful washing to maintain their shape and softness. Machine washing on the wrong cycle or using hot water can ruin the fabric's texture and fit.

The key is to treat each piece as a gentle garment, regardless of the fiber content. Even sturdy-looking knits benefit from a cool, gentle wash and air drying. This approach extends the life of the clothing and keeps your little one comfortable.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather a mild, baby-safe detergent (preferably liquid), a clean towel for drying, and a flat surface or drying rack. Avoid bleach, fabric softener, and dryer sheets, as these can break down fibers and reduce absorbency. If your knitwear has stains, pre-treat them gently with a dab of detergent before washing.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Baby Knitwear

  1. Read the Care Label: Always check the tag inside the garment for specific instructions. Most baby knits recommend a gentle machine wash in cool water or hand washing. Skipping this step is the most common cause of accidental shrinkage.
  2. Turn Garments Inside Out: Before washing, turn cardigans, jumpers, and wraps inside out. This protects the outer surface from friction and reduces pilling. Buttons and zippers can snag other fabrics, so fasten them before turning.
  3. Use a Gentle Cycle with Cold Water: Select the delicate or hand-wash cycle on your machine, and set the water temperature to cold or cool (max 30°C / 85°F). Add a small amount of mild detergent. Hot water is the fastest way to ruin knitwear—it causes felting and shrinkage.
  4. Never Wring or Twist: After the cycle ends, lift the knitwear gently out of the water. Do not wring or twist it, as this distorts the fibers. Instead, press the water out by rolling the garment in a clean towel. Wringing creates permanent creases and can stretch the fabric out of shape.
  5. Lay Flat to Dry: Place the knitwear on a dry towel or a mesh drying rack, reshaping it to its original dimensions. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Never hang wet knits, as gravity will stretch them. Drying flat is the single most important step for preserving fit and softness.
  • Organic Cotton Murphy Blanket - Pine Forest Friends: The Organic Cotton Murphy Blanket is made from 100% organic cotton and is perfect for travel, cuddling, or using as a lightweight blanket. This versatile wrap can double as a soft cover for your baby during nap time, and its organic cotton construction means it responds well to gentle washing and air drying.