Looking After Your Aran Sweater
An Aran sweater is more than just a warm garment, it’s a piece of Irish heritage. Traditionally knitted using natural wool, these sweaters were designed to last for many years. But like any quality wool garment, they benefit from proper care. In the video below, Aidan shares some simple and practical advice on how to care for your Aran sweater so it stays in great condition for years to come.
Handwashing Your Aran Sweater
The best way to clean an Aran sweater is by handwashing it gently. Use lukewarm water with a mild detergent suitable for wool. Avoid hot water, as this can shrink or damage the fibres. Place the sweater in the water and gently move it through the water rather than scrubbing or twisting it. After washing, rinse the sweater carefully with clean lukewarm water.
Reshaping the Sweater
Once your sweater has been rinsed, avoid wringing or squeezing it too hard. Instead, gently press the excess water out. When the sweater is still slightly damp, reshape it with your hands. Lay it flat and adjust the sleeves and body so it returns to its natural shape. This helps maintain the original fit of the garment.
Drying Your Sweater Properly
Aran sweaters should always be dried naturally at room temperature. Lay the sweater flat on a clean towel and allow it to dry slowly. Avoid placing it on a radiator or using a tumble dryer, as heat can damage the wool fibres. Allowing the sweater to dry naturally helps preserve the texture and shape of the knit.
How to Store Your Aran Sweater
When storing your sweater, the most important rule is never hang it on a hanger. Wool sweaters can stretch under their own weight when hung. Instead, fold your sweater neatly and place it in a drawer or on a shelf. This keeps the garment in its natural shape and prevents stretching.
Dealing with Pilling
Over time, you may notice small wool balls forming on the surface of your sweater. This is completely normal and happens with many natural wool garments. To maintain your sweater, simply use a wool comb or small wool shaver. Gently run it over the surface of the sweater to remove the pilling and refresh the appearance of the knit. With just a little care, an Aran sweater can stay looking beautiful for many years.
Our Best-Selling Aran Sweaters
If you’re looking for a traditional Aran sweater made in Ireland, here are two of our most popular styles.
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A Sweater Made to Last
One of the wonderful things about Aran sweaters is how long they can last when cared for properly. Many people in Ireland still have sweaters passed down through generations. By washing gently, drying naturally, and storing your sweater properly, you can enjoy your Aran knitwear for many years, and keep a small piece of Irish tradition alive in your wardrobe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caring for Aran Sweaters
Can you wash an Aran sweater in the washing machine?
It is best to handwash an Aran sweater using lukewarm water and a mild wool detergent. Washing machines can be too harsh for natural wool fibres and may cause the sweater to shrink or lose its shape.
How should I dry my Aran sweater after washing?
After washing, gently press the excess water out without wringing the sweater. Lay it flat on a clean towel and allow it to dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid tumble drying or placing it on a radiator.
Should you hang an Aran sweater in a wardrobe?
It is better to fold your Aran sweater rather than hang it. Hanging wool sweaters can stretch the fabric over time because of their weight.
Why do Aran sweaters sometimes develop small wool balls?
This is called pilling and it is normal with natural wool garments. You can easily remove the small wool balls using a wool comb or a fabric shaver to keep your sweater looking fresh.
How often should you wash an Aran sweater?
Aran sweaters do not need to be washed frequently. Because wool naturally resists odours and dirt, airing the sweater after wearing it is often enough. Washing only when necessary helps the sweater last longer.