How to wash crochet clothes
How to wash crochet clothes
Crocheting is a worldwide obsession, with millions of people crocheting for fun and for profit. One way individuals have taken to making the most of their time is by washing their crocheted clothing in extreme heat to remove all the dirt and grease that is inevitable in a day-to-day life. The perfect solution for this is the washing machine! You can use your washing machine to wash your crocheted clothing items just like you would any other garments, but with a couple of things in mind.
The first step is to determine the best type of detergent for use with your washing machine. Laundry detergents work best for washing wool, while hand-washing detergents are best for cotton and silk items. Dryer sheets work best on a damp cloth, so be sure to check the instructions thoroughly before using them with any type of crocheted clothing item.
Put Everything In Separate Bags
When we think about washing clothing, we often think about washing the whole item at once. However, when it comes to washing crocheted clothing, it is better to break it down into smaller pieces that can be more effectively cleaned. This is due to the nature of crochet – it is very stretchable, so it takes up more room in the washer than your average piece of clothing. When you put all your small clothing pieces into a large bag, the compression from the bag’s weight makes it harder for the washing machine to circulate the garments effectively.
So, when washing your crochet clothing, put each piece in a separate bag (or a couple of small bags if you are using a front-loading washing machine) so that the compressing force from the water is not transferred to the item. In this way, you will be able to get the most from your precious time by engaging in some leisure crafting!
Do Not Overwash
When you are washing your clothing items, do not overwash them. This is especially important when washing socks or underwear, as the elasticity of the yarn often results in the item being overrubbed. If you are using a front-loading washing machine, make sure to check the instructions thoroughly so that you are not harming the item in any way while washing it.
Use The Right Temperature And Amount Of Water
When washing your crocheted clothing items, you need to use the right temperature and amount of water. The ideal temperature to wash your crochet clothing is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the same as the recommended washing temperature for most items of clothing.
However, to get the best results from your washing machine, you need to use a little more than the recommended amount of water. When using a front-loading washing machine, make sure to fill it up to the brim and leave no room at all in the chest or under the arm.
Use The Right Cycle
To get the best results from your washing machine, you need to use the right cycle. There is a specific cycle for every type of washing machine, so be sure to check the instructions thoroughly before using it. For a top-loading washing machine, use the gentle cycle as it is the best for delicate items such as silk and other types of yarns. For a front-loading washing machine, use the hot wash cycle as it is the best for most types of clothing.
Dry Your Items On A Tumble Dry
When washing your items, make sure to dry them thoroughly on a tumble dryer. This is important especially for socks and undergarments, as the moisture from the washer can cause the fabric to shrink. In addition to this, when you tumble dry your clothing, it makes the dirt settle at the bottom of the clothing, so it can be easily removed during any cleaning stage.
Use The Right Fabric Softener
When washing your crocheted clothing items, you need to use the right fabric softener. Some people prefer using a dryer sheet instead of a conventional softener, but it is best to use a conventional softener as it is the safest bet when it comes to washing delicate items.
However, if you are using a hot water system, make sure to check the instructions thoroughly so that you do not end up damaging your clothing in any way by using the wrong softener. In general, a good rule of thumb is to use the same type and brand of clothing softener that you would use on your bedsheets.
Be Careful With Wet Items
When washing your crocheted clothing items, make sure to be careful when handling wet items. This is because the water from the wash can cause the clothing to become damp, and if it becomes damp it may start to rot. To avoid this, make sure to dry your clothing before putting it in your closet and make sure to hang your clothing out to dry during the initial 3 to 4 hours of drying.
These are some simple tips on how to wash your crochet clothing effectively. By using the right amount of water, temperature, and cycle, as well as the right washing machine and fabric softener, you will be able to clean your clothing without risk of damage.