As winter approaches, it’s important to care for your hats, scarves, and gloves by cleaning them regularly to remove sweat, dust, and germs. Dermatologist Dr. Dima Haidar advises washing hats weekly, while scarves and gloves should also be cleaned frequently. Wool accessories can usually be machine washed on a delicate cycle, or hand washed gently. To keep hats fresh, dry shampoo can be used. Proper drying and storage techniques are essential to maintain their shape and prevent damage from pests.
Essential Care Tips for Your Winter Accessories
As winter approaches, it’s time to bring out your favorite hats, scarves, and gloves to keep cozy. However, many of us neglect to wash these essentials after storing them away in spring. With exposure to sweat, dust, and pollution, it’s crucial to give them a good clean regularly. Our winter accessories often come into contact with hair and surfaces that can harbor germs. Here are six effective tips to maintain your wool hats, scarves, and gloves.
How Often Should You Clean Your Winter Gear?
According to dermatologist Dr. Dima Haidar, wearing hats can lead to a buildup of sebum on the scalp, creating a ‘maceration phenomenon.’ She recommends washing your hats weekly, or every two to three uses if you have oily hair or sweat significantly. For scarves and gloves, a weekly wash is also advisable to keep them fresh and clean.
Washing Your Wool Accessories
Wool is a delicate material, but many wool accessories can be machine washed safely. Check the care labels to find out if your items can handle a wash at 30°C on a ‘delicate’ or ‘wool’ cycle. Using a special wool detergent will help maintain the softness of the fibers while preventing them from becoming rough. Always opt for a gentle spin and air drying, as using a dryer can shrink and felt wool.
If your accessories are not machine washable, hand washing is a great alternative. Soak them in lukewarm water with wool detergent or a mild shampoo. Avoid vigorous rubbing to prevent breaking the fibers; instead, gently massage the items. Rinse thoroughly to eliminate any detergent residue, and spin them out carefully without twisting.
Keeping Your Hats Fresh with Dry Shampoo
Hats can accumulate dirt quickly due to their contact with the scalp. To extend the time between washes, sprinkle a little dry shampoo inside your hat and let it sit for about an hour. Afterward, gently pat and shake to remove any excess powder, leaving your hat feeling refreshed and nearly as clean as after a wash.
Drying Techniques for Wool Accessories
Proper drying is vital to maintaining the shape and smell of your winter gear. Avoid hanging wet scarves, gloves, and hats, as this can cause them to stretch and lose their form. Instead, lay them flat on a towel in a well-ventilated area to dry.
Storing Your Winter Accessories Correctly
When not in use, store your winter accessories carefully to avoid unsightly creases and damage. Fold them neatly and place them in storage bags to shield them from dust and pests. Moths are particularly attracted to wool and can create holes in your beloved items in no time, so taking preventive measures is essential.