Washing sweaters can be a delicate process, as they often are made from materials that are prone to shrinking, stretching, or pilling. For the longevity of your garment, it’s crucial to consider the fabric, the frequency of wear, and how each sweater can be best cared for. Not all sweaters are created equal—different materials require different care.

With the right approach, you can keep your sweaters fresh and extend their lifespan significantly. In this article, we’ll dive into the specifics of how often you should launder your sweaters and the proper techniques to do so.

1. Wool: Wool sweaters, especially those made from fine wool like Merino or cashmere, should be washed sparingly. Excessive washing can cause the fibers to felt and the sweater to lose its shape. A good rule of thumb is to wash woolen sweaters after every three to five wears unless they are visibly soiled or have an odor.

2. Cotton: Cotton sweaters are generally more durable and can be washed more frequently, typically after every two to three wears. However, too much washing can still cause them to lose their shape or color, so be gentle.

3. Synthetic Fibers: Sweaters made from synthetic fibers such as polyester or acrylic tend to retain odors and may need to be washed more often. They can usually withstand more regular washing, so after every one to two wears is acceptable.