Hockey Sweaters 

How many hockey sweaters would you say that you own? If you're a true sports fanatic, you may have lost count by now! Whether you're a player or a spectator, being on or near the ice means having to keep toasty warm so the cold doesn't detract from your enjoyment of the game.

Purchasing hockey sweaters is a great way to show your appreciation for your favorite team and they're great to have even when you're not watching or playing hockey. Like jerseys, they give you a sense of camaraderie with fellow fans before and after games. But caring for hockey sweaters properly is another matter; they cannot and should not simply be tossed into the washing machine with your other clothes and even with other delicates. To make your hockey sweaters last as long as possible, consider some quick but important tips as to their care.

Washing Your Sweaters

The way you launder your hockey sweaters is important when it comes to their longevity. Because they usually have emblems and other decorations sewn on, you need to wash them gently so that these do not unravel at the seams. If you must put them in the washing machine, use a delicate cycle with cold water. It's typically recommended that you hand wash your hockey sweaters with a mild detergent or even with laundry soap meant for babies.

If you dry your hockey sweaters in the dryer they may very well shrink, so it's always recommended that you lay them flat to dry. Don't pin them up on a line or hang them up as the weight of the wet fabric will pull them down and out of shape. It helps to put a towel down under the hockey sweaters as you lay them to dry so that the towel absorbs the moisture and helps them to dry.

Storage of Your Sweaters

The way you store your hockey sweaters will also greatly affect how long they last and their condition over time. During the off-season it's good to wrap them in a good plastic container of some sort so that they're protected from moths and moisture. If you're not fortunate enough to have a cedar lined closet, consider investing in some storage bins that are made specifically for hockey sweaters and other winter items.

Even when they're dry, you still don't want to hang up hockey sweaters as the weight of the material itself will tug against the hanger and pull them out of shape. You may notice slight "peaks" in the shoulders of the sweaters if you do hang them up. Instead, fold them carefully and store them in a drawer or an organizer in your closet so that they lay flat.

If you follow these simple tips you may see that your hockey sweaters last a virtual lifetime. This means you can keep up your team spirit season after season and can proudly wear your team's emblem for years to come!