How to Soften Stiff Sweatshirts

Sweatshirts are a staple in anyones wardrobe, especially during the colder months. They are comfortable, easy to wear and can be dressed up or down. The only problem is when they come right out of the package, they can be stiff and rough to the touch. It can be uncomfortable to wear, especially if you have sensitive skin. Thankfully, there are some things that you can do to soften your sweatshirts and make them more comfortable to wear. Here are some tips:

1. Wash with Fabric Softener

One of the simplest ways to soften a stiff sweatshirt is to add some fabric softener to your washing machine. Fabric softener coats the fibers and makes them softer to the touch. Its ideal for sweatshirts made from cotton, as it can be a little rough when new. Make sure to follow the instructions on the bottle and use the correct amount of softener for your load.

2. Use a Vinegar Rinse

Another option is to use a vinegar rinse. This is especially useful for sweatshirts that have a lot of stiffness or have a strong smell that you can't seem to get rid of. Simply add a cup of white vinegar to your washing machine during the rinse cycle. The vinegar will remove any traces of detergent or other chemicals, which can cause your sweatshirt to stiffen up. Plus, its a natural fabric softener!

3. Dry with Tennis Balls

When it comes to drying your sweatshirt, throwing it in the dryer can cause more stiffness. The heat and static can cause the fibers to stiffen up, which defeats the purpose of softening it in the first place. Instead, try drying it with tennis balls. Add a few of them to the dryer with your sweatshirt, and they will help to fluff up the fibers and keep them soft. Plus, tennis balls will help to eliminate any static, so your sweatshirt won't cling to you when you wear it.

4. Iron with a Damp Cloth

If your sweatshirt is too stiff, you can try ironing it with a damp cloth. First, set your iron to the cotton setting, and fill up the iron's water tank. Next, place a damp cloth over your sweatshirt and iron it. The steam from the iron combined with the damp cloth will soften the fibers and make your sweatshirt more comfortable to wear. Plus, it will help to reduce wrinkles!

5. Soak in Salt Water

A final tip is to soak your sweatshirt in saltwater before you wash it. Saltwater helps to break down any dirt or grime that has built up on your sweatshirt, and it can make the fibers softer. Simply fill up a container with lukewarm water and add a cup of salt. Stir the saltwater to dissolve the salt, and then add your sweatshirt. Let it soak for about half an hour, and then wash it as usual. You should notice a difference in how soft your sweatshirt feels!

In conclusion, there are several ways to soften a stiff sweatshirt. Washing it with fabric softener, using a vinegar rinse, drying it with tennis balls, ironing with a damp cloth, and soaking in saltwater are all effective methods. Try these tips, and you'll have a softer, more comfortable sweatshirt in no time!