Zip-Front Sweatshirt Laundry Tips

Zip It Up

• Zipping the zipper covers all the sharp edges of the zipper teeth. This prevents damage to other laundry in the load as well as to the sweatshirt itself. Zipping any zipper on any article of clothing going into the laundry is advised although sweatshirts commonly have the longest zippers and the potential for the most damage.

Tie the Hood

• The drawstring of the sweatshirt hood is another potential trouble spot. Tying the drawstring prevents it from pulling free of its channel through the hood or pulling into the hood. Either occurrence requires working the drawstring through the channel into the proper position. This process doesn't damage anything but can be frustrating to repair.

Check the Pockets

• If it has pockets, there is always the possibility something valuable is stashed away. Check the pockets of sweatshirts, or any other item of clothing, before throwing in the laundry. It takes a second or two and beats washing a wallet, checkbook or other valuable item.

Wash in the Right Load

• Once the pockets are empty, the hood tied and the zipper zipped, the sweatshirt still has to go in the proper load. Sort based on color and material. Check labels for any special washing instructions. Some sweatshirts with sequins or appliqués may require hand washing rather than the standard machine-laundry process. Wash with temperature settings appropriate for the sweatshirt material. Pretreating stains may also improve the look of the laundered sweatshirt.