The Nique Knitwear Care Guide
Care Well. Wear Longer.
Nique knitwear is designed to remain part of your wardrobe beyond a single season. A considered care routine helps natural fibres retain their shape, softness and appearance while reducing unnecessary washing, energy use and replacement.
Always begin by checking the care label inside your garment, as instructions may vary between wool, cashmere, cotton, mohair and blended yarns.
A Lower-Impact Care Routine
The most effective knitwear care is often the simplest:
Air between wears. Wash only when necessary.
Check the care label. Different fibres require different handling.
Use cool water. Choose a mild detergent suited to the yarn.
Avoid rubbing, twisting and wringing. These can distort the knit.
Dry flat in the shade. Never hang wet knitwear.
De-pill gently. Work on a clean, completely dry garment.
Repair early. Small pulls and holes are easier to restore before they spread.
Store clean and folded. Keep knits dry, protected and away from direct sunlight.
Wash Less
Knitwear rarely needs to be washed after every wear. Natural wool fibres are resistant to odours, so allowing your knit to rest and air between wears will often be enough to refresh it.
Lay the garment flat in a shaded, well-ventilated space for several hours or overnight. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which may affect the colour.
A gentle steam can also release creases, refresh the fibres and help the knit return to shape between washes. Allow it to dry completely before folding it away.
Spot Clean First
Treat small marks individually rather than washing the entire garment.
Blot the area gently with cool water and a small amount of mild detergent suited to the fibre. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing, as friction can work the stain further into the yarn and disturb the knitted surface.
Always test any cleaning product on an inconspicuous area first.
Washing Wool, Cashmere and Mohair
When a full wash is needed, follow the garment care label. Unless the label states otherwise, we recommend gently hand washing wool and cashmere.
Fill a clean basin with cool water and add a small amount of biodegradable, wool-safe detergent. Avoid conventional detergents containing enzymes, bleach or optical brighteners, as these can damage protein-based fibres.
Turn the garment inside out, submerge it and allow it to soak briefly. Handle it carefully without rubbing, twisting or agitating the knit. Drain the water and rinse gently at a similar temperature until the water runs clear.
Do not use fabric softener. It can coat the fibres and affect their natural performance.
Washing Cotton Knits
Many cotton knits can be machine washed, but always follow the individual care label.
Turn the garment inside out and place it in a mesh laundry bag. Wash with similar colours on a cold, gentle cycle using a mild, environmentally responsible detergent.
A cooler wash uses less energy while also helping to protect colour, shape and fibre integrity.
Drying Knitwear
Never wring or twist wet knitwear.
Gently press out excess water, then place the garment flat on a clean towel. Roll the towel with the knit inside and press lightly to absorb moisture.
Unroll and lay the garment flat in its natural shape on a dry towel or flat drying rack. Smooth the seams, sleeves and hem into place while damp.
Keep it away from direct sunlight, heaters and other concentrated heat sources. Do not tumble dry unless the care label specifically permits it.
Wet knitwear is heavier and more vulnerable to stretching, so avoid hanging it to dry.
Steaming and Pressing
A garment steamer is the gentlest way to release creases and restore the shape of most knits.
Steam lightly without pressing the steamer head firmly against the surface. Allow the garment to cool and dry flat before wearing or storing.
When ironing is permitted by the care label, use a low temperature and press from the reverse side with a clean damp cloth between the iron and the garment.
Pilling
Pilling occurs when loose fibres move to the surface of a knit through wear and friction, then tangle together to form small balls.
It can happen to knitwear at every quality level and is not necessarily a sign of poor-quality yarn. Softer natural fibres such as cashmere and fine merino may pill more visibly because their delicate fibres move more easily within the yarn.
Pilling is most common under the arms, along the sides and where the garment rubs against bags, seatbelts or outer layers.
To remove pills, lay the clean, completely dry garment flat and use a knitwear comb or fabric shaver with a light hand. Work gradually and avoid pressing deeply into the knit.
Only de-pill when necessary, as excessive combing can weaken the surface fibres over time.
Snags and Pulled Threads
Knitted yarn can catch on jewellery, bags and rough surfaces. Avoid pulling or cutting a snag from the front of the garment, as this may cause the knit to unravel.
Using a blunt needle or small crochet hook, carefully draw the loose loop through to the reverse side. Gently redistribute the surrounding stitches to ease the tension and help the surface settle.
Do not cut the thread. For a broken yarn, developing hole or significant pull, take the garment to an experienced knitwear repairer or tailor.
Repairing damage early prevents it from becoming more extensive and keeps the garment in use for longer.
Caring for Your Knit Between Seasons
Correct storage is an important part of knitwear care.
Wash or clean each garment before storing it for an extended period. Body oils, food marks and perspiration can attract moths even when they are not visible.
Make sure the garment is completely dry, then fold it loosely along its natural lines. Do not store knitwear on a hanger, as the weight can stretch the shoulders and change its shape.
Place folded knits in a clean, dry drawer, breathable garment bag or sealed storage container. Keep the storage area cool, dry and away from direct sunlight.
Natural cedar, lavender, rosemary or bay may help discourage moths, but these should not replace regular cleaning and inspection. Place cedar away from direct contact with the garment to prevent marks, refresh its surface periodically and check stored knitwear throughout the season.
Avoid storing natural fibres in damp spaces. Moisture can encourage mildew and damage the yarn.
Repair Before Replacing
Small signs of wear do not need to mark the end of a garment.
Loose seams, small holes and worn areas can often be repaired or darned by a skilled tailor or knitwear specialist. Addressing them early requires less intervention and extends the usable life of the piece.
Thoughtful maintenance allows each knit to soften, evolve and remain in rotation for years to come.
Designed to Be Worn Again and Again
Discover Nique knitwear in considered natural fibres, designed for repeat wear and a longer life in your wardrobe.