Your favorite sweatshirt deserves better than a random toss in the washing machine. Proper care keeps colors vibrant, prevents shrinkage, and maintains that perfect soft texture you love. This guide covers everything from how to wash sweatshirts to smart storage solutions that will keep your sweatshirts looking new for years.
Whether you're dealing with a vintage band tee or an expensive athletic hoodie, the right care routine makes all the difference. Small changes in how you wash, dry, and store these pieces can add years to their lifespan while keeping them comfortable and fresh.
Hand washing works best for delicate fabrics, sweatshirts with embroidered designs, or vintage pieces that need extra care. This gentle method protects fibers and prevents damage that machine washing might cause.
Always read the garment's care label before you start. If it says "dry clean only," consider professional cleaning or proceed with extreme caution. The label gives you specific guidance for that particular fabric blend and construction.
Look for water temperature recommendations and any special warnings about bleach or fabric softeners. Some labels also indicate whether the garment can be machine dried or should be air dried only. Sweatshirts with embroidered designs need extra attention during washing - check our guide on how to wash embroidered clothes for detailed care instructions.
Turn your sweatshirt inside out to protect colors, prints, and the outer fabric from pilling. Close any zippers or snaps to prevent snagging. Lightly brush away surface lint or pet hair before washing.
Check all pockets for items like coins, tissues, or receipts that could damage the fabric or cause stains. Pre-treat any visible stains with a small amount of detergent and let it sit for a few minutes before washing.
Choose a gentle, phosphate-free detergent that cleans thoroughly without harming fibers. For wool or delicate fabric blends, use a wool-specific formula to preserve elasticity and maintain softness. Harsh detergents can break down fibers over time.
Avoid detergents with optical brighteners or bleach, which can cause colors to fade or change over multiple washes. Use about half the amount of detergent you would normally use for a regular load, since hand washing requires less product.
Further Readings
→ How to Wash, Dry, and Fold Hoodies Without Shrinking Them
→ 20 Different Types of Hoodies: A Basic Guide for Your Vibe
Fill a clean basin with cold or lukewarm water . Hot water risks shrinkage and can damage certain fibers permanently. Submerge the sweatshirt completely and gently agitate the water, not the fabric itself.
Let the garment soak for 10 to 30 minutes , depending on the material and soil level. For stubborn stains, apply a small amount of detergent directly to the spot and gently rub the fabric against itself. Avoid brushes or vigorous scrubbing that can damage fibers.
Rinse thoroughly with cold water until all suds disappear . You may need to rinse several times to remove all detergent residue. Always press or gently squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting the fabric, which can stretch or distort the shape.
If you want to update an old sweatshirt by removing outdated designs, our tutorial on how to remove embroidery from a shirt walks you through the process safely.
Turn your sweatshirt inside out to protect the outer surface and any designs. Use cold water exclusively and select the gentle or delicate cycle to minimize agitation. Hot water causes cotton and cotton blends to shrink and can set stains permanently.
Place sweatshirts with delicate prints or embroidery in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection. This prevents snagging and reduces friction during the wash cycle. Avoid washing sweatshirts with heavy items like jeans, towels, or blankets. These can cause excessive agitation and potential damage to your softer garments.
Overwashing breaks down fabric fibers and causes colors to fade faster than necessary. Most sweatshirts don't need washing after every single wear, especially if worn over other clothing.
Wash sweatshirts every 5 to 6 wears for normal, light use. If you've been active, sweated heavily, or spilled something on the garment, wash it after that wear. Trust your nose and visual inspection to guide your decision.
Lay your sweatshirt flat on a clean, dry towel to maintain its original shape. Reshape the garment while damp to prevent wrinkles and distortion. This method takes longer but provides the gentlest treatment for your fabric.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause colors to fade and fabrics to become stiff. Choose a well-ventilated area with good air circulation for faster drying without heat damage.
If you must use a dryer, select low heat or the tumble dry delicate setting. High heat causes shrinkage and can damage elastic fibers in blended fabrics. Remove the sweatshirt while it's still slightly damp to prevent over-drying and reduce wrinkles. The residual moisture will evaporate naturally without causing shrinkage.
Fold sweatshirts to prevent shoulder stretching and maintain their shape. Heavy fabrics can stretch out of shape when hung for extended periods. Stack folded sweatshirts with heavier items on the bottom. If you must hang sweatshirts, use wide, padded hangers that distribute weight evenly across the shoulders. Avoid wire hangers that can leave permanent marks and distort the fabric.
Keep sweatshirts in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Moisture can lead to mildew and unpleasant odors, while heat can cause fabrics to yellow or become brittle.
For seasonal storage, use breathable fabric storage bags or cotton garment bags. Avoid plastic bags that trap moisture and can cause mildew problems. Add cedar balls or lavender sachets to storage areas to deter moths naturally. Once your sweatshirt is clean and fresh, learn creative ways to style a sweatshirt for different occasions and seasons.
Taking proper care of your sweatshirts preserves their softness, shape, and vibrant colors for years to come. Hand washing provides the gentlest treatment, while careful machine washing offers convenience without sacrificing quality.
Remember that less frequent washing, proper drying techniques, and smart storage choices all contribute to extending your sweatshirts' lifespan. These simple practices protect your investment and keep your favorite pieces looking and feeling their best.
Start implementing these care techniques today, and you'll notice the difference in how long your sweatshirts maintain their original quality and comfort.
Yes, most sweatshirts can be machine washed safely. Turn the sweatshirt inside out, use cold water on a gentle cycle, and avoid washing with heavy items like jeans or towels. Always check the care label first, as some delicate or vintage sweatshirts may require hand washing or professional cleaning.
Wash embroidered sweatshirts inside out using cold water and a gentle cycle. Place the garment in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection. Hand washing is often the safest option for heavily embroidered pieces. Use a gentle detergent and avoid scrubbing directly on the embroidered areas.
Use cold water, gentle detergent, and avoid overwashing to maintain softness. Skip fabric softener, which can build up and make fabric stiff over time. Air dry when possible, or use low heat in the dryer and remove while slightly damp. Washing every 5-6 wears instead of after each use helps preserve fiber integrity.
Air drying is the best method to prevent shrinkage. Lay the sweatshirt flat on a clean towel away from direct sunlight. If using a dryer, choose low heat or delicate settings and remove the garment while slightly damp. Never use high heat, which causes cotton and cotton blends to shrink permanently.
Fold sweatshirts to prevent shoulder stretching and store them in a cool, dry place. Use wide, padded hangers only if hanging is necessary. For seasonal storage, choose breathable fabric bags and add cedar balls or lavender sachets to deter moths. Avoid plastic bags that can trap moisture.
Cameron Hayes
Meet Cameron Hayes, the 32-year-old wordsmith behind Embroly LLC's heartwarming content. This self-taught writer turned his passion for family stories into a career, weaving tales of love and laughter from his bustling Chicago home office. With six years in the content creation world, Cameron has mastered the art of making Gen X and millennials alike misty-eyed over their morning coffee. When he's not crafting the perfect emotional hook, you'll find him attempting DIY projects or coaching little league. His gift-giving advice is significantly more reliable than his home improvement skills.
