How to Wash Your Fall Wardrobe Staples: Caring for Sweaters, Denim, and Flannels

As the weather cools down, we trade our tanks and shorts for cozy sweaters, durable denim, and soft flannels. These fall wardrobe staples are timeless—but only if they’re cared for properly. Washing them the wrong way can lead to pilling, fading, shrinking, or losing that just-right softness we all love.

The good news? With a few simple laundry tips (and the right detergent), you can keep your fall favorites looking (and feeling) like new.

How to Wash Sweaters Without Ruining Them

Sweaters are the heart of a fall wardrobe, but they’re also one of the easiest items to damage if you’re not careful.

• Check the label first. Wool, cashmere, and cotton blends all have slightly different needs.
• Turn inside out. This protects the outer fibers from friction and pilling.
• Use cold water + a gentle detergent like Wishing Well. Hot water can shrink and warp fibers.
• Stick to a gentle cycle—or hand wash. Hand washing in cool water is safest for delicate knits.
• Dry flat. Never hang sweaters; the weight of the water will stretch them out. Place them on a clean towel and reshape as they dry.

Pro tip: If you’re looking for a laundry detergent that can help to reduce pilling, Wishing Well laundry detergent is an amazing option! It includes cellulase, which works by gently trimming away the microfibrils (loose, protruding fibers) on cotton and cotton-blend fabrics. This helps keep sweaters looking smoother, reduces fuzz, and makes colors look brighter over time. You can also use a sweater comb or fabric shaver to remove fuzz and extend the time between washes.

How to Wash Denim Without Fading

There’s an ongoing debate: how often should you wash your jeans? The truth is, denim lasts longer when you wash it less frequently.

• Spot clean first. Use a damp cloth and a drop of Wishing Well detergent for small stains instead of tossing jeans into the wash every time.
• Wash inside out. This helps preserve color and prevents fading.
• Use cold water. Heat can break down fibers and cause shrinking.
• Avoid the dryer. Air-drying keeps the shape intact. Hang jeans by the waistband or lay flat.

Pro tip: To refresh between washes, hang your denim in fresh air or lightly mist with a fabric refresher.

How to Wash Flannels to Keep Them Soft

Flannels are the ultimate cozy shirt for crisp days, but they need gentle care to stay soft and wearable.

• Wash in cold water. Hot water can cause shrinkage and stiffness.
• Use a gentle detergent like Wishing Well. Harsh formulas can strip softness.
• Wash with similar colors. Flannels often bleed a little at first.
• Dry on low heat or air-dry. High heat makes flannels stiff and rough.

Pro tip: Skip fabric softener—over time it can build up and actually make fabric less soft. Instead, add a half cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle with your Wishing Well wash to naturally maintain softness.

Bonus: Storage Tips for Your Fall Staples

Washing well is just half the battle—how you store your clothes matters, too.

• Sweaters: Fold instead of hanging to avoid stretching. Store in breathable cotton bags if you won’t wear them for a while.
• Denim: Stack or hang by the waistband to maintain shape.
• Flannels: Hang or fold neatly to prevent wrinkling.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your fall wardrobe doesn’t have to be complicated. By washing sweaters, denim, and flannels the right way—with cold water, a gentle laundry detergent like Wishing Well, and mindful drying—you’ll make them last season after season.

So go ahead—layer up, sip that pumpkin latte, and enjoy your fall wardrobe knowing it’s being cared for the right way <3