Use a Wide Shouldered Hanger
The best type of hanger to use for hanging sweaters is a wide, broad shouldered hanger. The wide surface area helps maintain the sweater’s shape and prevents any hanger marks or shoulder bumps.
When using a wide hanger, button any buttons and lay the sweater flat across the shoulders of the hanger. The weight of the sweater should be supported evenly across the hanger.
This is the ideal way to hang heavier sweaters like wool or cashmere. The wide hanger keeps the weight distributed properly so the sweater doesn’t stretch out of shape.
Fold Over a Hanger
If you don’t have special wide hangers, you can turn a regular hanger into one by folding it in half.
Take a regular wooden or plastic hanger and fold it in half lengthwise. Drape the sweater over the folded hanger as you would with a wide hanger. The two sides folded together act as wide shoulder area to properly support the sweater.
This method works best for lighter weight sweaters that don’t have too much bulk or weight. The makeshift wide hanger helps prevent any bumps or markings that could stretch the sweater over time.
Use a Hanging Fold
For delicate sweaters or ones prone to stretching, use the hanging fold method. You’ll need a clamp style skirt or pant hanger for this.
Lay the sweater face down and smooth out any wrinkles. Fold the sweater in half lengthwise with the arms tucked inside. Place the folded sweater on the hanger and secure the clamp around the midsection to hold it in place.
This keeps the sweater’s shape intact and prevents any sagging or misshaping from hanging. The weight is supported evenly by the bottom half of the fold.
Try a Fold Over Hanger
For bulky or heavy sweaters, a fold over hanger is a great option. These specialty hangers have two bars that create a double layer to hang items on.
Lay the sweater face down on the bottom bar of the hanger. Fold the bottom half of the sweater up and over the top bar. This evenly distributes the weight and creates a crease-free hung sweater.
The folding technique helps maintain the natural shape of the sweater while preventing any damage that could occur from hanging alone.
Tips for Hanging Sweaters
- Always check sweater care instructions and materials first. Some sweaters, like cashmere, are delicate and require special care when hanging.
- Hang sweaters on thicker wooden or plastic hangers rather than flimsy wire ones to better support weight.
- Make sure shoulders line up evenly on hangers to prevent stretching.
- Store hung sweaters in an area that is not exposed to direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Consider using sweater storage bags or garment bags to further protect hung sweaters from dust.
- Avoid wire hangers or those with a thin frame that can nick or snag delicate knits.
- Don’t overload hangers with too many heavy sweaters as this can cause sagging and misshaping.
- Refresh sweaters by steaming or pressing with an iron after hanging to remove any wrinkles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hanging Sweaters
How should you store wool sweaters?
The best way to store wool sweaters is folded in a drawer or hanging folded on a skirt hanger. Wool is delicate and can stretch out of shape if hung improperly. Use a heavy wooden or plastic hanger and avoid wire hangers that can snag.
Where should you hang sweaters to prevent stretching?
To prevent stretching when hanging sweaters, the ideal location is in a closet. Hang sweaters away from direct sunlight or heat sources that may damage fibers. Avoid cramming too many sweaters too close together on a rod.
Can you hang a cashmere sweater?
Yes, you can hang cashmere sweaters but extra care is required. Use a thick, wide shoulder hanger to properly distribute weight. Or try the folding technique over a hanger to prevent over stretching the delicate cashmere fibers.
What is the best way to fold a sweater?
The best way to fold sweaters is by laying flat and smoothing out any wrinkles. Fold in half lengthwise, then fold in thirds horizontally. Store folded sweaters in a drawer with other similar knits or sweater dividers.
How do you keep sweater shoulders from stretching?
To prevent shoulder stretching on hung sweaters, use hangers with wide shoulder spaces. The weight needs to be distributed evenly across both shoulders. Or try folding sweaters over a hanger to better support shoulder areas.
Conclusion
Hanging sweaters correctly using one of these methods can extend their life and maintain shape. Always check care instructions but opt for wide, thick hangers or folding techniques for best results. Proper hanging helps sweaters keep their silhouette and prevents damage from misshaping. With the right hanger and technique, you can keep sweaters looking new while saving drawer space.