Cleaning Winter Gloves, Hats and Scarves

Winters in Boston are quite harsh. Accessories such as gloves, hats, and scarves are indispensable for keeping us warm when we venture outside. Inevitably, these accessories can get soiled with sweat and everyday stains. So how do we keep them clean?

Photo by Alex Iby on Unsplash

If care labels are present on the winter hat, scarf or gloves, follow the instructions carefully. Many synthetics, as well as cottons and wools, are hand or machine washable. If tumble drying is recommended, use a low temperature setting. When handwashing, use warm water in a sink with a drop of gentle dish or hand soap. Let it soak for a few minutes to allow the soap to work its way into the glove or hat. You may need a little more soap for scarves. Drain the water and lay the hat or gloves flat against the bottom of the sink and use fingers to press out water. Don’t twist or wring them. For scarves, lay your scarf on a towel and roll the towel. This will eliminate a good amount of dampness. Unroll the towel and lay your scarf on a dry towel to completely dry. Do not hang a scarf – this could damage its fibers!

Wool, fur, and leather accessories may require dry cleaning. These materials require special cleaning and finishing procedures. Any known stains should be pointed
out when you leave them with the dry cleaner. Most items will turn out beautifully after professional cleaning, but accessories, particularly gloves, are exposed to many staining substances that cannot be removed.

Finally, remember to always clean your winter hats, scarves and gloves before storing them in the back of your closet.  Soiled items may invite insects damage and mold. Cleaning them before storage ensures that they will be good to wear in the next season.