Care Tips

Hand pouring detergent on cashmere sweater by Margaret O'Leary.

STEP ONE

Handwash

One of our favorite ways to minimize environmental impact and keep our sweaters looking beautiful is to opt for hand washing! 

If you choose to hand-wash your wool and cashmere, here are a few easy steps: 

1. Fill with lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle, dye-free detergent. 

2. Submerge your sweater and gently massage it. Soak for 30 min. 

3. Rinse with cool water until the water runs clear and there are no more suds. 

4. Gently press your sweater to let out excess water. Be careful to not twist or stretch it. 

5. Lay the sweater flat on a dry towel. Roll the towel up like a yoga mat, pressing as you go. 

6. Unroll and lay flat to finish drying. NEVER use a dryer! 

Always check the care label if you are unsure how to take care for your sweater. If in doubt, dry cleaning is a safe option. 

STEP TWO

Depill

Pills appear when fibers tangle together in a tiny ball. These can form from rubbing, abrasion, or with wear. You'll find pills to be a normal part of owning cashmere and other soft knits. 

A simple sweater comb is essential in preserving your favorite sweater. Lightly rub the comb over your sweater to get rid of any pilling.

Depiller comb on top of a cashmere sweater by Margaret O'Leary.
2 reusable zip bags with Margaret O'Leary sweaters inside.

STEP THREE

Store

We ship our items in reusable storage bags featuring a zip closure and breathable vents. Store your sweater folded flat inside this bag to keep it fresh and safe from moths or other environmental factors.

We do not recommend hanging knit sweaters. You may find that your hung sweater will grow and lose shape over time.

STEP FOUR

Repair

In our current fast-fashion culture, replacing and disposing of barely used clothes has become the norm. We can take the "slow-fashion" approach by repairing and reusing the clothing that we already own.

To keep your Margaret O’Leary sweater looking great, we offer free de-pilling and minor repair services within one year of purchase. Bring your item to one of our stores, and our staff will take care of the rest. Can't make it to a store? Reach out to web@margaretoleary.com for assistance. 

Board of spools in different colors.
Woman wearing Square Neck Tank in black by Margaret O'Leary
Woman wearing the Boat Neck Tank in white by Margaret O'Leary.
Woman wearing the Ribbed Cotton Tank in white by Margaret O'Leary.

STEP FIVE

Add a Base Layer

To maintain the quality and longevity of your knits, please be aware that direct contact with oils, lotions, deodorants, and perfumes can potentially stain, damage and alter the texture of any knit or woven garment. 

We recommend ensuring any products used are fully absorbed into your skin to avoid direct contact with the garments. Additionally, layering a tee or cami underneath can help in protecting your knits.

Shop Base Layers