What To Know
- This guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to hang your cardigans like a pro, ensuring they remain a stylish staple in your wardrobe for years to come.
- Hanging a cardigan on a thin hanger can cause the shoulders to lose their shape, resulting in a distorted silhouette.
- Place the folded cardigan in a drawer or on a shelf, ensuring it’s not exposed to direct sunlight or moisture.
Knowing how to hang a cardigan properly is essential for preserving its shape, preventing stretching, and ensuring it stays looking its best. While it may seem like a simple task, there are specific techniques and considerations to keep in mind. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to hang your cardigans like a pro, ensuring they remain a stylish staple in your wardrobe for years to come.
The Importance of Proper Hanging
Cardigans, with their delicate knit construction, are susceptible to damage from improper handling. Hanging them incorrectly can lead to:
- Stretching: The weight of the cardigan pulling on the shoulders can cause the fabric to stretch out over time, especially with heavier knit cardigans.
- Distortion: Hanging a cardigan on a thin hanger can cause the shoulders to lose their shape, resulting in a distorted silhouette.
- Snags: Sharp hanger edges or hooks can snag the delicate knit fabric, creating unsightly holes or pulls.
Choosing the Right Hanger
The first step towards proper cardigan care is selecting the appropriate hanger. Here’s what to look for:
- Wide Shoulders: Opt for hangers with wide, padded shoulders that mimic the natural curve of your cardigan. This will prevent the shoulders from stretching or losing their shape.
- Sturdy Construction: Choose hangers made from strong materials like wood or padded metal to support the weight of the cardigan without bending or breaking.
- Smooth Edges: Ensure the hanger has smooth edges to prevent snagging or pulling the fabric. Avoid hangers with sharp edges or hooks.
The Proper Hanging Technique
Once you’ve chosen the right hanger, follow these steps to hang your cardigan correctly:
1. Button or Zip Up: Always button or zip up your cardigan before hanging it. This helps maintain its shape and prevents the fabric from stretching out.
2. Smooth the Fabric: Gently smooth out any wrinkles or creases in the cardigan before hanging it. This will help prevent the formation of permanent creases.
3. Hang by the Shoulders: Place the hanger’s shoulders over the cardigan’s shoulders, ensuring the garment sits evenly on the hanger.
4. Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd your closet by hanging too many cardigans on a single hanger. This can put undue stress on the fabric and lead to stretching or damage.
Additional Tips for Optimal Cardigan Care
- Turn Inside Out: For delicate cardigans, especially those with embellishments or intricate knit patterns, consider turning them inside out before hanging them. This will help protect the exterior fabric from snags or damage.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store your cardigans away from direct sunlight, which can fade the colors and weaken the fabric.
- Regularly Rotate: Avoid leaving the same cardigan hanging for extended periods. Regularly rotate your cardigans to prevent stretching or damage from continuous weight.
- Professional Cleaning: For cardigans made from delicate materials or with intricate embellishments, consider professional dry cleaning to ensure proper care and preservation.
Beyond the Hanger: Folding for Storage
While hanging is ideal for maintaining the shape of cardigans, folding offers a space-saving alternative for storage. Here’s how to fold a cardigan properly:
1. Lay Flat: Lay the cardigan flat on a clean surface, ensuring it’s smooth and wrinkle-free.
2. Fold the Sleeves: Fold the sleeves inward, bringing the cuffs to the center of the cardigan.
3. Fold in Half: Fold the cardigan in half lengthwise, aligning the bottom hem with the neckline.
4. Roll or Fold Again: You can either roll the cardigan up tightly or fold it in half again for a more compact storage option.
5. Store in a Drawer or Shelf: Place the folded cardigan in a drawer or on a shelf, ensuring it’s not exposed to direct sunlight or moisture.
The Final Word: Loving Your Cardigans for Longer
By mastering the art of hanging a cardigan, you’ll not only keep it looking its best but also extend its lifespan. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in ensuring your favorite cardigans remain stylish and wearable for years to come.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I hang a cardigan on a plastic hanger?
A: While plastic hangers are more readily available, they’re not ideal for hanging cardigans. The thin, smooth surface can cause the cardigan to slide off, and the lack of padding can lead to stretching or distortion. Opt for wooden or padded metal hangers for optimal support.
Q: Is it okay to hang a cardigan on a padded hanger even if the shoulders are narrow?
A: It’s best to avoid hanging cardigans on narrow padded hangers, even if they’re padded. The narrow shoulders can still cause the cardigan’s shoulders to stretch out over time, especially if the cardigan is heavy.
Q: How often should I wash my cardigans?
A: The frequency of washing depends on the material and how often you wear the cardigan. Generally, it’s recommended to wash cardigans after 2-3 wears or when they start to look a little dirty or smell. However, always refer to the care label for specific washing instructions.
Q: Can I hang a cardigan in the bathroom after a shower?
A: It’s best to avoid hanging a cardigan in the bathroom after a shower. The steam and moisture from the shower can damage the fabric, causing it to shrink, stretch, or become misshapen.
