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Our Easy Guide On How To Look After Your Delicate Knitwear

Inspired by Jigsaw’s fiddly and fancy new season jumpers and knits, here’s the best way to care for cashmere, wool and more 

We’re just going to jump right in and say it: Jigsaw have smashed it out of the park when it comes to their new season knitwear offering – and it couldn’t have come at a better time. Right now is when a jumper is the definitive reach-for piece in our wardrobes – after all, as well as offering some extra snug against the cold season, they make an effortless day-to-day look with denim or tailoring for both work and play. From gorgeously soft cashmere cardigans in sweet pastel shades to lightweight merino wool sweaters and heavier lambswool roll necks, we’ve seen a serious shift away from thinking about jumpers as an extra layer of warmth towards being recognised as cool, statement pieces in their own right.

However, if there’s one thing we’ve noticed about these new knitwear styles, it’s the emphasis on quality – and often delicate – fabrics. There’s no denying that we’re all becoming a lot more conscious about the quality, quantity and origins of our clothing, which is why Jigsaw has become such as name to know right now. As well as their directional design, they’re known for their considerate approach to the environment from the materials to people they use to create their clothes. Using quality fabrics such as wool and cashmere mean they should last infinitely longer than faster fashion polyester pieces (and they’re better for the environment too!). But they’ll only go the distance if we give them the proper care and attention they deserve. That’s why we’ve pulled together a handy guide on how best to care for any and all of the new cashmere, merino and lambswool pieces you’re inevitably going to be stocking up on asap. Want to invest but aren't sure if you're up to the challenge? Read on...

The Best Way To Care For…Cashmere 

Originating in the faraway mountains of Mongolia, Jigsaw’s pure cashmere pieces are made from 100% cashmere yarn, spun from the inner fleece of the cashmere goat. As it comes from hair, it is one of the finest and softest natural fibres in existence – and that means it must be handled with care. Pilling, shrinkage and moths are the common enemy of cashmere, but a little TLC can keep them at bay. 

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£120.00
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Washing

As a rule of thumb, you should wash all of your knits at home by hand. For a super soft finish, use a gentle non-biological liquid and always ensure a tepid to cool water temperature to avoid shrinkage. 

Drying

Carefully reshape your cashmere knit, taking care not to ring it as this will permanently alter the natural shape of the item. Lay it flat and allow to air dry. 

Caring & Storing

Ever noticed those annoying little bobbles that creep up on your knits, particularly along the arms? Those are due to friction. You can restore your cashmere jumper or cardigan back to its former glory by using a de-pilling comb or simply by hand. To ensure it doesn’t fall victim to moths, store in a zipped up garment bag. 

Shop Jigsaw Cashmere

The Best Way To Care For…Merino Wool 

Jigsaw use a high quality fine Italian merino yarn as standard and, unlike its famously itchy Woolly parent, Merino wool is notoriously soft. This gives garments an elevated finish to look at, and a more comfortable all round wear. The fine nature of merino wool yarn also enhances its elastic nature, making with Merino wool knits more shapely when on. 

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£35.00
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Washing

Much like cashmere, your best bet is hand washing. But if that option isn’t available or convenient – which, let’s face it, it isn’t – you can wash at a low temperature (not more than 30 degrees) on a gentle delicate machine cycle. Whilst a non-biological detergent is fine, we suggest avoiding any fabric softener as it can alter the natural finish of the wool. 

Drying

Never, ever, ever tumble dry. If you want your merino pieces to stay shapely then pat them dry to avoid excess water and allow to hang out on a line to drip dry. 

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The Best Way To Care For…Lambswool 

If you’ve spotted lambswool on the label of your new knit – lucky you! You’re onto a quality jumper. Lambswool is wool taken from the first shearing of the sheep, and is a sign of a higher quality design. But, like all quality fabrics, it requires a little more thought to keep it looking fresh. 

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£56.00
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Washing

We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again, hand wash your wools! Hand washing in cool water with a mild soap or washing up liquid will do the job nicely.  

Drying

Gently squeeze out any excess water without wringing to maintain shape and ensure it dries properly. As this type of wool is thicker, it can also endure a brief machine spin but not a tumble dry. When ready, dry flat. 

Shop Lambswool