Caring for Your Pieces
Care Guide
With the right care, a Crochetty piece can last a lifetime and beyond. Follow these guidelines to keep your handcrafted item looking its best.
Hand Washing
Water temperature
Always use cool or lukewarm water — never hot. Heat causes natural fibres to shrink and felt.
Detergent
Use a gentle, pH-neutral wool wash or baby shampoo. A teaspoon is enough for a full basin.
Motion
Gently squeeze and swirl the item — do not wring, twist, or rub vigorously. Support the weight of the garment throughout.
Rinsing
Rinse thoroughly in clean cool water until the water runs clear and free of soap.
Drying
Remove excess water
Gently press (do not wring) the item inside a clean dry towel to absorb moisture.
Reshape
Lay flat on a fresh dry towel or a mesh drying rack and gently reshape to original dimensions while damp.
Air dry
Allow to dry naturally away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Never tumble dry crochet items.
Time
Thicker pieces may take 24–48 hours to dry fully — be patient.
Storage
Clean before storing
Always wash items before long-term storage. Body oils and invisible residue attract moths and cause yellowing.
Fold, don't hang
Hanging crochet stretches the stitches over time. Fold loosely and store flat.
Breathable bags
Use cotton or muslin bags — never plastic, which traps moisture and promotes mildew.
Pest protection
Add cedar blocks or dried lavender sachets near wool items to deter moths naturally.
By Material
Cotton
Cotton is the most forgiving of crochet fibres. It can tolerate slightly warmer water (up to 30 °C) and mild detergent. Reshape while damp to prevent stiffening. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, which can fade colour.
Wool
Wool felts easily — always use cool water and minimal agitation. Use a dedicated wool wash. Never wring. Some wools can be blocked (pinned damp to shape) to even out stitches and resize slightly.
Acrylic
Acrylic is highly durable and can be machine-washed on a gentle cool cycle. However, heat destroys the fibres — never tumble dry or iron directly. Air drying is always recommended.