Seasonal Laundry Tips: How to Handle Bulky Winter Wear

As the chilly winter breeze begins to settle, we start pulling out our cozy sweaters, bulky jackets, and soft blankets. While these winter essentials keep us warm and snug, they often pose a laundry challenge. The bulky size, delicate fabrics, and stubborn stains from snow or rain require special care. Let's dive into some handy tips on how to handle your bulky winter wear!

1. READ CARE LABELS DILIGENTLY

Before you throw anything into the wash, check the care label. Manufacturers provide these instructions for a reason; it's the best way to clean the item without causing damage.

2. PRE-TREAT STAINS

Winter often brings along salt stains from sidewalks or mud from slushy puddles. Pre-treat any visible stains before washing by dabbing a small amount of liquid detergent or a specialized stain remover.

3. WASH WITH COLD WATER

Cold water is gentle on fabrics and equally effective at cleaning, especially for bulky items. It also reduces the risk of shrinkage, which is a common concern with woolen wear.

4. USE GENTLE CYCLE FOR DELICATES

Your soft cashmere sweater and delicate woolen scarves will thank you for this. A gentle cycle reduces wear and tear, maintaining the fabric's integrity.

5. AVOID OVERLOADING THE WASHER

Bulky items take up a lot of space, so it can be tempting to stuff the washing machine. However, overloading can prevent clothes from cleaning properly and might even damage the machine. Wash in smaller loads and ensure there's enough water for the clothes to move freely.

6. SKIP THE FABRIC SOFTENER FOR PERFORMANCE WEAR

If you're washing performance gear or water-resistant clothing, avoid fabric softeners. They can reduce the material's wicking abilities and compromise water resistance.

7. DRY THOROUGHLY

Damp winter wear can develop a moldy smell. Ensure your items are completely dry before storing them. Lay flat to dry for items that might lose their shape, like sweaters.

8. AVOID HIGH HEAT

High temperatures can be detrimental to many winter fabrics, leading to shrinkage or damage. When machine drying, use a low heat setting. Consider air drying when possible.

9. STORE WITH CARE

Once your winter wear is clean and dry, store them with care. Use padded hangers for heavy jackets to maintain their shape. For sweaters, fold them neatly, and consider using storage bins to avoid over-stretching.

10. REFRESH BETWEEN WASHES

You don't always need to wash your winter wear after each use. For items that aren't stained or sweaty, consider freshening them up using fabric sprays or airing them outside briefly.

11. CONSIDER A PROFESSIONAL FOR SPECIALTY ITEMS

Some winter garments, such as down jackets or fur-lined coats, might require professional care. If you're unsure about washing a particular item, it's worth investing in a professional cleaning service.