Fleece is a beloved fabric for a reason: it’s warm, cozy, and incredibly soft. Whether you’re snuggled up in a fleece blanket, wearing a comfy fleece jacket, or enjoying fleece-lined slippers, that plush feel is what makes it so appealing. But over time, even the softest fleece can become stiff, matted, or lose its luxurious texture. The good news? With a few simple tips and tricks, you can keep your fleece feeling wonderfully soft for years to come.
The Washing Wisdom: Treating Your Fleece Right
Washing is often where fleece starts to go astray. Here’s how to do it right:
Cool it Down: High heat is the enemy of fleece. Always wash fleece items in cold water. Hot water can break down the fibers, leading to stiffness and pilling.
Gentle Cycle is Key: Opt for the gentlest cycle on your washing machine. A delicate or handwash cycle will minimize friction and keep the fibers from matting.
Skip the Harsh Stuff: Avoid using harsh detergents, especially those with chlorine bleach or fabric softeners. These products can leave residue on the fibers, making them feel stiff and less soft. Instead, choose a mild, liquid laundry detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Look for detergents labeled “gentle” or “for delicates.”
Inside Out Matters: Turn your fleece garments inside out before washing. This simple step can reduce friction and pilling, which will help maintain the soft surface.
Avoid Overloading: Don’t cram your washing machine. Overloading prevents proper rinsing and can lead to detergent residue. Give your fleece items plenty of room to move freely.
Drying with Care: The Secret to Lasting Softness
How you dry your fleece is just as crucial as how you wash it:
Air Dry is King: The absolute best way to preserve the softness of fleece is to air dry it. Lay it flat on a clean surface or hang it on a clothesline, away from direct sunlight. This method avoids the harsh tumble and heat of the dryer, which can cause the fibers to clump and lose their fluffiness.
Low Heat Tumble (If Necessary): If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and a short drying cycle. Avoid high heat at all costs.
Consider Dryer Balls: Add a few dryer balls (wool or plastic) to the dryer. These help to separate the clothing items, allowing for more even drying and preventing the fleece from matting together.
Don’t Overdry: Remove your fleece from the dryer as soon as it’s dry (or even slightly damp). Overdrying can lead to static and make the fibers feel crispy.
General Care for Long-Lasting Softness
Beyond washing and drying, here are a few extra tips for maintaining the softness of your fleece:
Minimize Abrasion: Avoid wearing fleece under heavy clothing or backpacks that might cause friction and pilling.
Brush It Out: If your fleece starts to develop pills (those small balls of fabric), gently remove them with a fabric shaver or a special pill remover. A soft-bristled brush can also help to fluff the fibers.
Store it Smart: When storing fleece items, avoid compressing them tightly. This can crush the fibers and make the fleece feel less soft. Fold them loosely and store them in a well-ventilated space.
Don’t Over Wash: Only wash your fleece when it’s truly dirty. Over-washing can contribute to premature wear and tear.
The Bottom Line
Maintaining the softness of your fleece isn’t difficult; it just requires a little extra care. By using gentle detergents, washing in cold water, air drying whenever possible, and avoiding harsh treatments, you can keep your favorite fleece items feeling soft, cozy, and luxurious for years to come. So go ahead, snuggle up, and enjoy that velvety softness – you’ve earned it!