Knitted baby clothes are soft, warm, and absolutely adorable. But they need special care to stay beautiful and comfortable for your baby. Whether you’ve just received a precious gift like a knitted newborn outfit, or you’ve invested in handmade baby clothes, knowing how to wash and care for them properly is important.In this tutorial, we'll guide you through easy steps and useful tips to ensure your infant knitted clothes remain fresh, soft, and ready for each snuggle.
Why Special Care Is Needed for Knitted Baby Clothes
Knitted items are made from yarn, which is more delicate than regular fabric. Unlike store-bought baby onesies or t-shirts, infant knitwear can stretch, lose shape, or become damaged in the wash if you’re not careful. Babies also have sensitive skin, so it’s best to avoid harsh detergents or rough washing cycles that could affect the texture of the clothes.Most parents opt for neutral-colored infant clothes that are made of organic cotton, wool, or bamboo yarn. These materials are soft and breathable, but they need gentle washing if they are to be kept in good condition.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Infant Knitted Outfits
1. Read the Label First
Always read the care label on your baby's clothing. If it's homemade, ask the vendor or knitter if there are special instructions for washing. Every material has its own washing guidelines. Merino wool, for instance, requires different treatment than cotton yarn.
2. Hand Wash When You Can
Hand washing is the most secure way to go with most knitted goods. Here's how you do it:
Fill a basin or bucket with lukewarm water.
Add a few drops of baby-safe or wool-safe detergent.
Swish the outfit in the water gently, don't rub or wring it.
Soak for 10–15 minutes.
Rinse with clean, lukewarm water.
3. Machine Wash With Care (if allowed)
If the label states machine wash is permitted:
Use a mesh laundry bag to shield the outfit.
Select a gentle cycle using cold or lukewarm water.
Use baby detergent, no scent and no dye.
Avoid using fabric softeners since these cause damage to natural fibers.
4. Never Wring or Twist
When washing, gently squeeze out the water with your hands. Do not wring or twist the clothing, it may stretch or damage the yarn.
How to Dry Knitted Baby Clothes
1. Lay Flat to Dry
The golden rule of drying knitted garments: always dry flat. Set the piece down on a clean towel, reshape it gently, and air-dry away from the sun or heaters.
2. Do not Hang
Hanging a wet knitted garment can stretch it out. Even small garments can lose their shape when hung on a clothesline or on a hanger.
3. Dry Indoors or in Shade
Exposure to too much sun can bleach colors. Dry infant knitted garments indoors or in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
Storing Knitted Baby Clothes
Correct storing maintains the appearance and texture of sensitive knits:
Fold rather than hang.
Store in a dry, dust-free drawer or container.
Store clothes away from moths, lavender sachets or cedar blocks are perfect.
Don't store in plastic, as natural fibers must breathe.
Knit infant garments such as the gentle sweaters from Brave Little Lamb are frequently heirloom items. Proper storage will allow them to be saved for siblings, or even for the next generation.
How to Remove Stains from Knit Infant Garments
Infants are messy, and that's just part of their charm! These are the steps for removing typical stains safely:
Spit-up or milk: Rinse with cold water, then soak with mild soap prior to washing.
Diaper blowouts: Dampen the area with water and baking soda, then wash lightly.
Food stains: Blot (do not scrub!) the spot gently with water and soap. Lemon juice can be used to naturally lighten stubborn areas, first test on a small area.
Always treat spots immediately and do not use hot water, which will set the stain forever.
How Often Should You Wash Knitted Clothes?
Baby knitted clothing should not be washed after each use unless they get visibly dirty. Overwashing them will make them wear out quicker.
Onesies and tops: Wash after 1–2 uses
Cardigans or sweaters: Wash after 3–4 uses
Blankets and accessories: Wash only when necessary
Having some neutral baby clothes in rotation keeps washing at a minimum and keeps your baby's wardrobe looking fresh.
FAQs
Q1: Can I tumble dry baby knitted garments?No. The tumble drying will shrink or distort the shape. Always dry flat on air.
Q2: Which detergent is best for washing knitted baby clothes?Use mild, fragrance-free baby detergent or a specialized wash for wool. Do not use bleach or fabric softener.
Q3: How do I stop pilling on knitted garments?Wash inside out, gentle detergent, and no rubbing or wringing. Pilling can also be carefully removed with a fabric comb.
Q4: Are knitted garments too hot for summer babies?Not at all! Lightweight cotton or bamboo baby knits are airy and perfect for hot weather. Simply select short-sleeved or lightweight pieces.
Q5: Can I iron a knitted newborn garment?It's best not to. The heat can ruin the yarn. If necessary, steam the garment lightly from a distance, or put it flat with a damp cloth to iron it out.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your baby's clothes, particularly delicate infant knitted garments, doesn't have to be a chore. By giving them a bit more care and handling them with care, you can keep these beautiful, soft, hand-knit items in stunning condition for months, possibly even years. From a treasured knitted newborn sweater to hand-me-downs or bespoke gifts, lovingly looked-after knitwear adds warmth, character, and a personal touch to your baby's first days.
So, no matter if you're dressing your tot in a loving present from Brave Little Lamb or a set of neutral baby attire you've put together yourself, a little attention will go a long, long way.
