Fleece has a way of outlasting trend cycles. It is warm without bulk, resists moisture, and, when cared for properly, holds its loft for years, which is part of why it turns up so often in good condition on the resale market. The fabric is, however, more particular about washing and drying than its casual reputation suggests.
What Makes Fleece, Fleece
Fleece is a knit fabric, almost always made from polyester, that is brushed on one or both sides to raise a soft, insulating nap. It was developed in 1979 by Malden Mills, later known as Polartec, as a lightweight alternative to wool that could wick moisture while trapping warmth. Outdoor brands adopted it almost immediately, and it has remained a staple of jackets, pullovers, and linings ever since. That brushed structure is also what makes fleece prone to pilling if it is washed carelessly.
Washing Pre-Owned Fleece the Right Way
Heat and friction are fleece's two enemies. A few adjustments to a normal wash routine go a long way toward preserving both the texture and the color of a pre-owned piece:
- Wash in cold water on a delicate or gentle cycle to prevent shrinking and fiber damage
- Use a gentle, dye-free detergent and skip fabric softener, which coats and flattens the nap
- Turn the garment inside out before washing to reduce surface friction
- Wash fleece separately, or inside a mesh laundry bag, to keep it from rubbing against zippers, buttons, or rougher fabrics
- Avoid overloading the machine, since a full load increases the friction that causes pilling
Drying and Storage
Skip the dryer where possible. High heat is the fastest way to cause shrinkage and permanent pilling in fleece. Air drying flat, or over a drying rack, keeps the fabric's shape intact. For storage, fold rather than hang heavier fleece pieces, since hanging can stretch the shoulders and neckline over time, and keep fleece away from anything with rough zippers or hardware that could snag the nap in storage.
Reviving Pre-Owned Fleece
Light pilling on an otherwise well-kept fleece piece is not a reason to pass it over. A fabric comb or pilling shaver, used gently and in one direction, lifts the raised fibers and restores much of the original texture in a few minutes. It is a small step that often makes the difference between a piece that looks worn and one that looks simply broken in.
Continue Reading
For more on caring for specific materials, see our guides to wool care and cotton care, or browse our full guide to shopping pre-owned outerwear. Shop current pieces at CENT'ANNII.
