How to Keep Your Sweatshirts Looking New: Washing and Drying Tips

Quick answer

To keep your sweatshirts looking new, always wash them inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle, and dry them on low heat or air dry. Avoid fabric softeners and high heat to prevent pilling, fading, and shrinkage.

A sweatshirt is a wardrobe staple—cozy, versatile, and perfect for game days or lounging. But after a few washes, that soft fleece can turn rough, colors fade, and the fabric starts to pill. The good news: with the right washing and drying routine, you can keep your sweatshirts looking fresh for years.

Whether you're caring for a classic hoodie or a team sweatshirt from the Somerset Patriots Team Store, these tips will help you maintain the fabric, fit, and color. Let's dive into the step-by-step process.

Before You Wash: Prep Your Sweatshirt

Start by checking the care label. Most sweatshirts are made from cotton, polyester, or a blend, and the label gives the best guidance. Turn the sweatshirt inside out to protect the outer surface from friction, which causes pilling and fading. Close any zippers or fasten buttons to prevent snags.

Treat stains before washing. Apply a small amount of stain remover directly to the spot and gently rub it in. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Avoid using hot water on stains, as it can set them.

• Always check the care label first.
• Turn inside out to minimize friction.
• Pre-treat stains promptly.

Choosing the Right Wash Cycle and Detergent

Use cold water (below 30°C/85°F) for most sweatshirts. Cold water prevents shrinkage and color bleeding. Select a gentle or delicate cycle to reduce agitation, which can stretch the fabric and cause pilling.

Opt for a mild liquid detergent. Powder detergents can leave residue. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners—softeners coat the fibers, reducing absorbency and breathability, and can break down elastic over time.

• Cold water is your best friend.
• Gentle cycle reduces wear and tear.
• Skip fabric softeners to preserve fabric quality.

Drying: The Critical Step

High heat is the enemy of sweatshirts. It causes shrinkage, fades colors, and can melt synthetic fibers. Air drying is the safest method: lay the sweatshirt flat on a clean towel, reshape it, and let it dry away from direct sunlight. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove the sweatshirt while it's still slightly damp.

Avoid hanging a wet sweatshirt on a hanger, as the weight of the water can stretch the shoulders. Instead, lay it flat or use a drying rack.

• Air dry flat to maintain shape.
• If using a dryer, use low heat and remove early.
• Never wring out a wet sweatshirt.

Dealing with Pilling

Pilling happens when loose fibers tangle into little balls on the surface. To prevent it, wash inside out, avoid overloading the washer, and skip the dryer. If pilling occurs, use a fabric shaver to gently remove the fuzz.

When shopping for new sweatshirts, consider the fabric. Blends with polyester are more durable but may pill less than pure cotton. For example, the Somerset Patriots Adult Save Affiliate Hooded Sweatshirt is a great choice for its warmth and durability.

• Use a fabric shaver to remove pills.
• Wash inside out to minimize friction.
• Consider fabric type when buying.

Step-by-Step Sweatshirt Care Routine

1. Read the care label: Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific washing and drying recommendations. This prevents accidental damage from wrong settings.
2. Turn inside out and pre-treat stains: Turn the sweatshirt inside out, close zippers, and apply stain remover to any spots before washing. Reduces friction and helps remove stains effectively.
3. Wash in cold water on gentle cycle: Use a mild detergent and select a gentle cycle with cold water. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Cold water prevents shrinkage and fading.
4. Dry flat or on low heat: Air dry flat on a towel, or tumble dry on the lowest heat setting and remove while slightly damp. High heat damages fibers and causes shrinkage.
5. Remove pills with a fabric shaver: If pilling occurs, gently shave the surface with a fabric shaver to restore a smooth look. Keeps your sweatshirt looking new for longer.

Sweatshirt Options from Somerset Patriots Team Store

• Somerset Patriots Adult Save Affiliate Hooded Sweatshirt: This sweatshirt is just like a t-shirt except that it's made of heavier and warmer material, has longer sleeves, a hood, drawstrings, and a neat little pouch for your hands in the front. Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate. Knowing the fabric weight helps you choose the right wash cycle—heavier materials may need a more delicate cycle to avoid wear.

Caring for your sweatshirt doesn't have to be complicated. By following these simple steps—washing in cold water, drying gently, and handling pilling—you can extend the life of your favorite sweatshirts. Whether you're cheering on the Somerset Patriots or just staying cozy, proper care keeps your gear looking great.