Wool jumpers, soft alpaca scarves, thick socks, and that one favourite cardigan — winter wardrobes are full of pieces that bring comfort the moment you put them on. But they also need a little extra care to stay soft, hold their shape, and last for seasons to come. With the right approach, looking after them doesn’t take much time or effort, especially when your washing machine and dryer do most of the work for you.

Treat wool gently

Wool can last for years when it’s cared for the right way, but it needs a little extra attention to stay soft and perfectly shaped. Hot water can make the fibres tighten and shrink, while strong spinning can stretch them out, leaving jumpers misshapen or rough. A gentle wash protects the fabric’s natural structure and helps your favourite pieces keep their shape for longer. Washing machines like the WPNA14A3ALPWECO feature FabricCare technology, designed to provide a softer yet effective wash that reduces fibre wear and tear by up to 70%. The result is clothes that not only look and feel better but also last twice as long, season after season.

Skip the hot air

Wool, alpaca, cashmere, and other natural fibres all need a bit of care when it comes to drying, because high heat can make them shrink, stiffen, or lose their natural stretch — which is why slow, even drying works best. If you prefer the ease of tumble drying, choose a setting that mimics natural air-drying conditions. Tumble dryers like the DNS93SWECO feature the NatureDry programme, which uses lower temperatures and a gentler airflow to recreate the feeling of fresh air drying indoors. It keeps fibres soft, airy, and perfectly shaped, so your favourite jumpers and scarves come out dry and comfortable, without any shrinking or stiffness.

Let your knits breathe

Knits need a bit of breathing room to stay in good shape, so try not to overload the drum when washing them. Wool, mohair, and cashmere hold more water than other fabrics, and when the drum is too full, there’s no space for the fibres to move freely. That can lead to uneven washing or stretched shapes, so opt for washing fewer pieces at a time to help water and detergent reach every part of the fabric — leaving your jumpers soft, clean, and ready to dry.

Keep them clean, not over-washed

Knits don’t need intense washing to stay fresh — in fact, too much detergent or heavy cycles can wear them out faster. A small amount of mild detergent is enough to lift dirt without stripping the fibres of their natural oils. Avoid running extra rinse cycles too, since overwashing can make wool lose its softness over time. Gentle care helps each piece keep its texture and colour, so your jumpers and scarves stay just as comfortable as the day you bought them.

Fold, don’t hang

Knits are heavier than they look and hanging them can stretch the fabric and pull them out of shape — especially when they’re still a little damp. Folding them instead helps the fibres rest naturally, keeping jumpers and cardigans looking neat and well-fitted. After washing, gently reshape each piece and lay it flat on a towel until it’s dry, then fold it to store. This simple habit keeps shoulders from sagging, hems from stretching, and your favourite knits ready to wear season after season.

Caring for winter clothes takes a little extra care and attention, but it’s worth it to keep them feeling as good as new. The pieces you reach for most — your favourite jumpers, scarves, and coats — last longer when they’re washed gently, dried slowly, and stored with care. Soft fibres stay smooth, shapes stay true, and colours keep their richness. With a few simple habits, your winter wardrobe can stay warm, comfortable, and ready for many seasons ahead.