Hand-knit baby clothes are an investment. Treat them right and they'll outlast the baby, the next baby, and often the grandchildren. The rules are simple.
Washing
Cold water, wool-safe detergent (Eucalan, Soak, or baby-friendly equivalent), 5-minute soak, gentle swirl — no agitation. Never put in the regular wash with clothes. Never use regular detergent with enzymes.
Drying
Squeeze (don't wring) to remove water. Lay flat on a clean towel, reshape to original dimensions, and leave to air dry away from direct sunlight and heat. Never tumble dry. Never hang on a line — the weight of water stretches the knit.
Storage
Fold, don't hang. Store in a breathable cotton bag (not plastic) with a cedar block to deter moths. Wash before long-term storage — body oils attract moths.
When Things Go Wrong
Stain: spot-clean with a damp cloth and baby-safe soap. Don't scrub.
Pilling: use a wool comb or sweater stone, never a razor.
Stretched out: re-wet, reshape on towel, air dry.
The bottom line
Five minutes of care extends the life of a hand-knit piece by years. Every Woolly Wonders piece ships with a care card covering these rules.
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