Handmade crochet is made to last — but like anything made by hand, it needs a little care. The good news? Caring for crochet is simple once you know a few rules.
This guide covers everything: washing, drying, storing and keeping your pieces looking new, whether it’s a cardigan, a bag, a bouquet or a cushion.
Why crochet needs special care
Crochet is made from loops of yarn worked by hand. That’s what gives it its beautiful texture — but it also means crochet can stretch when wet or hung, and lose its shape if treated roughly. Most damage happens in the washing machine, the dryer, or on a hanger.
Follow the steps below and your piece will stay beautiful for years.
Washing crochet clothing
Hand washing is always best.
- Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water (never hot — heat can shrink or felt some fibres).
- Add a small amount of mild detergent — a wool wash or gentle baby detergent works well.
- Submerge your piece and gently press the water through it. Don’t scrub or twist.
- Let it soak for 10–15 minutes.
- Rinse in clean, cool water the same way.
Never wring crochet. Twisting stretches the stitches and can pull the shape out permanently.
Check the care label on your NoorLune piece — material: [cotton / acrylic / blend] — and follow it first.
Drying: the most important step
- Gently press out excess water with your hands.
- Lay the piece flat on a clean, dry towel and roll the towel up like a Swiss roll to absorb more water.
- Unroll and lay the piece flat on a fresh dry towel or drying rack.
- Reshape it while damp — straighten the edges, sleeves and hem.
- Let it dry away from direct sunlight and heaters.
Never tumble dry and never hang wet crochet — the weight of the water will stretch it out of shape.
Storing crochet
- Fold, don’t hang. Hangers stretch shoulders and leave bumps. Fold your cardigans and tops and store them flat in a drawer or on a shelf.
- Keep it clean and dry before storing.
- Avoid plastic bags for long-term storage — a breathable cotton bag is better.
- If your piece contains wool, a few cedar blocks or lavender sachets help protect it from moths.
Pilling and loose threads
Some yarns can form small fuzz balls (pills) over time, especially where they rub — under the arms or on the sides.
- Remove pills gently with a fabric shaver or a sweater comb.
- Never cut a loose thread close to the knot. If a strand comes loose, gently weave it back in with a needle — or contact us, and we’ll help.
Caring for crochet bags
- Spot clean with a damp cloth and a drop of mild soap. Avoid soaking bags with structure or lining.
- Don’t overload your bag with heavy items — crochet stretches under constant weight.
- When you’re not using it, stuff it with tissue paper to keep its shape.
Caring for crochet flowers
Our Moonbloom flowers never wilt — they just need occasional dusting.
- Dust gently with a soft makeup brush or a hairdryer on the cool setting.
- Keep them out of direct sunlight to protect the colours.
- If they ever need a wash, hand wash gently in cool water, reshape the petals, and let them dry completely.
Caring for crochet cushions
- Remove the insert before washing.
- Hand wash the cover in cool water, then dry flat and reshape.
- Plump and rotate your cushions regularly so they wear evenly.
Quick care checklist
- Hand wash cold with mild detergent
- Never wring, never tumble dry
- Dry flat and reshape while damp
- Fold, don’t hang
- Remove pills with a fabric shaver
- Keep out of direct sunlight
A piece made to be kept
Every NoorLune piece is crocheted by hand, stitch by stitch, over many hours. A little care keeps it beautiful for years — and maybe, one day, it becomes something you pass on.
Questions about caring for your piece? Email us at hello@noorlune.com — we’re always happy to help.
