There is nothing quite like slipping into a fresh, ultra-soft set of cotton or knit pajamas at the end of a long day. High-quality sleepwear is an investment in your daily comfort and sleep hygiene. However, frequent washing, heat exposure, and improper laundry habits can cause soft cotton and delicate knits to shrink, lose their shape, or develop unsightly fabric pilling over time.
By making a few small adjustments to your laundry routine, you can preserve the buttery-soft feel, clean aesthetic, and natural stretch of your favorite pajamas for years to come. Here is the ultimate guide to caring for your cotton and knit sleepwear.
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Wash in Cold Water on a Gentle Cycle
High water temperatures break down delicate natural cotton fibers and cause knits to shrink or lose their elasticity. Washing your sleepwear in cold water (30°C / 86°F or lower) protects the integrity of the fabric, prevents fading in neutral tones, and uses less energy.
Always select a gentle or delicate cycle to reduce excessive friction during the spin cycle.
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Turn Pajamas Inside Out Before Washing
Friction between garments inside the washing machine is the primary cause of fabric pilling (those tiny, unwanted fuzz balls that form on soft knits). Turning your pajamas inside out before placing them in the drum protects the outer surface, keeping the visible side smooth and pill-free wash after wash.
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Use a Mild, Gentle Detergent
Harsh chemical detergents, bleach, and fabric softeners can actually damage natural cotton and knit fibers. Heavy fabric softeners leave a chemical coating over breathable fibers, reducing their natural moisture-wicking properties and overall breathability.
Opt for a mild, eco-friendly liquid detergent free from harsh optical brighteners and synthetic fragrances.
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Air Dry or Tumble Dry on Low Heat
Excessive heat from clothes dryers is the number one enemy of soft loungewear. High heat damages elastic waistbands and causes cotton garments to shrink noticeably.
• Best Option: Line dry or lay flat to dry in a shaded area. Air drying preserves the original shape and softness of your pajamas. • Quick Option: If using a dryer, select the "Low Heat" or "Air Fluff" setting and remove the garments while they are still slightly damp.
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Store Flat Instead of Hanging
Hanging soft knit pajamas on wire or thin wooden hangers can cause the shoulders and waistbands to stretch out under their own weight. Fold your cotton and knit sleepwear neatly and store them in a cool, dry drawer or shelf to maintain their original tailored fit.
Taking gentle care of your loungewear ensures every night feels just as luxurious as the first. Explore our timeless collection of durable, ultra-soft minimalist sleepwear designed for the entire family in the CHASON Collection.