It’s the end of the holiday season — your Ugly Christmas Sweater made everyone laugh, but now it’s time to clean and store it properly. Whether it’s covered in glitter, embroidery, or 3D reindeer antlers, proper care ensures it’ll be ready to shine again next Christmas.
1. Check the Label First
Before tossing it in the washer, read the care label. Many holiday sweaters are made from delicate fabrics like acrylic or wool blends, which require gentle handling.
2. Spot-Clean Decorations
If your sweater has lights, sequins, or glued decorations, never soak it fully. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to spot-clean the affected areas. Avoid scrubbing — pat gently instead.
>>>> Eco-Friendly Laundry Tips to Extend Your Hoodie’s Life
3. Hand Wash for Safety
Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of gentle detergent. Submerge your sweater, gently swirl, and let it soak for 5–10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cold water and avoid twisting to prevent stretching.
4. Dry Flat — Never Hang
Lay your sweater flat on a towel to air dry. Hanging it can cause stretching, especially around the shoulders. Flip it once midway through drying to keep it even.
5. Store It Correctly
When completely dry, fold and store your sweater in a breathable cotton bag. Add a lavender sachet or cedar block to keep it smelling fresh and moth-free. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
6. Bonus: Deodorize Before Storage
Lightly mist your sweater with a DIY fabric spray (try the one from our DIY Fabric Freshener Guide) to eliminate odors before packing it away.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Throwing it in the dryer (it will shrink or melt decorations).
- Storing it damp (leads to mildew and odor).
- Folding it with heavy items on top (flattens embellishments).
Related Products
Check out our new Ugly Sweater Collection — designed for comfort, laughter, and durability that lasts year after year.
Final Tip: Treat your Ugly Sweater like the treasure it is — because the holidays will be here again before you know it!
