How to care for knitted baby clothes

Knitted baby clothes are treasured items, often handmade or bought with great care. Knowing how to care for knitted baby clothes ensures that cozy sweaters, delicate blankets or tiny booties keep their softness, shape, and beauty for longer.

Here's everything you need to know about washing, drying, and storing your baby's knitted clothes. Any piece from a baby knitwear supplier needs proper care to keep it looking and feeling its best.

Why Knitted Baby Clothes Need Special Care

Natural fibres like bamboo, cotton, and merino wool are gentle, breathable, and perfect for a baby’s delicate skin. However, these materials also require extra care to preserve their unique properties. Improper washing or drying can lead to shrinkage, pilling, or damage to the delicate knit.

Babies have sensitive skin, which is why caring for knitted baby clothes requires avoiding harsh detergents or methods that could result in itchy or rough fabric.

Hand Washing vs. Machine Washing

The safest way to wash knitted baby clothes is by hand, as this minimizes the risk of damaging the yarn or pattern. Machine washing, even on a gentle cycle, can sometimes cause knitted items to stretch or become misshapen.

Hand Washing Instructions for Knitted Baby Clothes

1. Fill a Basin with Cold Water

2. Add a Gentle Detergent

3. Submerge the Knitted Clothes

4. Rinse Thoroughly

5. Squeeze Gently to Remove Water

6. Lay Flat to Dry

Machine Washing Knitted Baby Clothes: Is It Safe?

While hand washing is recommended, you can machine wash knitted baby clothes if necessary, but it requires extra caution.

• Use a Mesh Laundry Bag During the wash.

• Choose a Delicate Cycle

• Avoid Spin Cycles

• Air Dry Only

Choosing the Right Detergent

When learning how to wash knitted baby clothes, the detergent you use plays a crucial role. Many commercial detergents contain chemicals, dyes, and fragrances that can be harsh on delicate fibers and irritating to your baby’s skin.

What to Look for in a Detergent:

• Fragrance-Free

• Hypoallergenic

• Wool-Safe or Delicate Fabric Formulas

Avoid detergents with bleach, brighteners, or softeners, as these can break down yarn fibers over time.

Moss Le Petit Brand

How to Remove Stains from Knitted Baby Clothes

Knitted baby clothes are not immune to spills and stains, especially from milk, formula, or baby food. However, stain removal on delicate fabrics like wool or cotton requires a gentle approach.

Milk or Formula Stains:

• Soak the stained area in cold water for a few minutes.

• Gently apply a small amount of mild detergent or baby shampoo directly to the stain.

• Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water.

Food Stains:

• Create a paste with baking soda and water, and gently rub it into the stain.

• Rinse with cold water, and if necessary, repeat the process before washing the entire garment.

Poop Stains:

• Scrape off any excess, then rinse the area with cold water.

• Apply a gentle stain remover or baby detergent, let it soak for a few minutes, and wash as usual.

  
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Wash Bag

• Using Hot Water

• Too fast spinning

• Tumble Drying

Storage Tips for Knitted Baby Blankets

Proper storage is just as important as washing and drying:

• Fold, Don’t Hang

• Use Breathable Storage Bags

• Add a Lavender Sachet

Final Thoughts

Washing knitted baby clothes may seem daunting at first, but with the right techniques, you can ensure that your little one’s clothes remain soft, cozy, and beautiful. By choosing the right detergent, washing with care, and drying properly, you’ll extend the life of these delicate items and keep your baby comfortable.

Caring for knitted baby blankets made from bamboo-cotton, bamboo, or merino wool doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right washing, drying, and storage techniques - and the help of a wash bag to prevent snags - your baby’s blanket will stay as soft and beautiful as the day you brought it home.

Hope you enjoyed this article! Here at Knit-Lab Peru we are committed to offer premium quality products that combine modern technology with ancestral tradition. Contact us if you want to learn more or work with us.