How to Wash an Essentials Hoodie So It Lasts

Heavyweight fleece hoodies keep their shape for years if you look after them. The main enemies are heat, friction and harsh detergents, which cause shrinking, bobbling and cracked prints. Here is a simple routine that works for hoodies, tracksuits and joggers.

Always check the care label first. It has the final word for each item, especially pigment-dyed and washed pieces.

Before you wash

• Turn the hoodie inside out. This protects the logo, puff prints and embroidery from rubbing.
• Close any zips so they cannot snag the fleece.
• Wash dark and light colours separately, especially new pigment-dyed pieces, which can release some colour in the first washes.

Washing

• Use a cool wash, 30°C or lower, on a gentle cycle.
• Use a mild liquid detergent and skip bleach.
• Do not overfill the drum. Fleece needs room to move, or it rubs and bobbles.

Drying

• Avoid the tumble dryer. Heat is the main cause of shrinking and of prints cracking.
• Reshape the hoodie while it is damp and dry it flat or over a rail.
• Keep it out of direct sunlight to avoid fading.

Prints, embroidery and labels

Never iron directly on a print or rubber label. If you need to remove creases, iron inside out on a low setting or use a steamer from a distance.

Storage

Fold hoodies and joggers instead of hanging them. Heavy fleece can stretch at the shoulders on a hanger over time.

Bobbling

A little bobbling in areas that rub, such as under the arms, is normal with fleece. A fabric shaver removes it quickly. Washing inside out and avoiding the dryer keeps it to a minimum.

Looking for a new favourite? Browse our Essentials hoodies and tracksuits, from everyday 380gsm to warm 480gsm fleece.