Knitwear describes a fabric construction, not a single fibre. A wool jumper, cotton cardigan and knitted dress may need different drying methods. Begin with the particular garment’s label rather than choosing one method for every knit.
Prepare a drying space before washing
If flat drying is recommended, prepare a surface that supports the entire garment without its sleeves or hem hanging over the edge. For wool, Woolmark recommends a clean, pale, lint-free towel. Do not carry a wet jumper by its shoulders alone.
Restore the shape without stretching
Gently remove excess water without wringing. Lay the garment out and arrange the seams, sleeves and ribbed edges. Reshaping does not mean stretching it into a larger size. Hanging wet wool can distort it under its own weight.
Avoid using an arbitrary heat source to speed drying
For wool, avoid direct radiator heat and strong sunlight. Tumble drying is an option only when the garment’s care marking permits it. A machine’s “wool” programme does not replace the label.
Check before putting the garment away
Feel the thicker areas too: ribbing, collar and folded sections. Dry sleeves do not mean the whole jumper is dry. Assess its shape and put it in the wardrobe only once it has dried.
Source for wool-specific guidance: Woolmark — drying wool garments.
