- Wash less frequently
First of all, you have to be aware that not every piece of clothing has to be washed after being worn only once. Pieces like handmade sweaters,cardigans can be worn several times before they have to go into the washing machine. Just use your common sense and wash items once they get dirty or sweaty.
- Wash gently
To make them last longer, use a short, gentle cycle with cool water and gentle laundry detergent. And if you’re able to, hand washing is the most gentle way to wash of all.
- Limit drying time
Using a dryer, especially with high heat, can damage your clothing over time. To keep your handmade lasting longer, air dry as much as possible. If completely air drying your garments isn’t feasible (for example if you live in a very humid climate), then try using the dryer for a short period of time on medium to low heat and then lay out clothing to dry the rest of the way. You’ll save energy and your clothing.
- Store Carefully
Handmade crochet/knit products should be folded. If knit garments are hung up in a closet, gravity may pull them out of shape and even create divots where the garment is pressed against the hanger.