Sweatshirts are the wardrobe staple we reach for when comfort, style, and casual flair come together. The Bar Sweatshirts have carved a name for themselves by offering elevated, premium-quality basics that embody both coziness and street-style sophistication. Whether it’s their iconic the bar varsity sweatshirtor any of their other pieces, proper care is essential to maintain the luxurious feel, bold colors, and crisp structure that make these sweatshirts stand out.
In this comprehensive wash and care guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to help you keep your Bar Sweatshirt in pristine condition—so it lasts longer, looks sharper, and remains as comfortable as the day you bought it.
Why Care Instructions Matter
Every piece of clothing has a story to tell—and how you treat it determines how long that story continues. Bar Sweatshirts are crafted with premium fabric blends, embroidery details, and often customized finishes. Without proper care, these unique features can fade, stretch, shrink, or become damaged.
Following a thoughtful wash and care routine ensures:
- Fabric integrity stays intact
- Colors remain vibrant and rich
- Shape and structure aren’t compromised
- Embroidery or logo details don’t peel or fade
Taking a little extra time to care properly for your sweatshirt can significantly extend its life and preserve its premium quality.
Before the First Wash
When you first receive your Bar Sweatshirt, it’s tempting to wear it immediately—and you can! But before you toss it into the wash for the first time, consider the following:
- Check the label: Each piece may have specific care instructions printed inside. This small step can make a big difference.
- Pre-wash test: If you’re planning to wash it with other clothes, especially lights, make sure to do a colorfastness test. Though Bar Sweatshirts are made with high-quality dyes, it’s always best to play it safe.
- Avoid unnecessary washes: Unless it’s visibly dirty or has absorbed odor, you don’t need to wash it after every wear. This prolongs the fabric life.
Washing Instructions: Do’s and Don’ts
Let’s break down the safest and most effective way to wash your Bar Sweatshirt:
Step 1: Turn It Inside Out
This helps protect the outer surface, especially if your sweatshirt has prints, embroidery, or logos. It reduces friction and prevents unnecessary fading or pilling.
Step 2: Use Cold Water
Hot water can shrink the fabric, cause fading, and wear out the elasticity of the garment. Always use cold or lukewarm water (30°C or less) when washing your sweatshirt.
Step 3: Choose the Right Detergent
- Use a mild, color-safe detergent.
- Avoid bleach, even for white sweatshirts—it can weaken fibers and cause yellowing.
- Stay away from fabric softeners. They leave behind a coating that affects the fabric’s natural texture and breathability.
Step 4: Machine Wash on Gentle Cycle
If you’re using a washing machine, choose the gentle or delicate cycle. This reduces agitation and keeps your sweatshirt’s fabric and stitching safe from strain.
Step 5: Don’t Overload the Machine
Wash your sweatshirt with like items—not rough denim, garments with zippers, or anything that could snag or stretch it. Overloading the washer increases friction and can distort the shape of your sweatshirt.
Hand Washing: The Extra Mile of Care
If you really want to pamper your Bar Sweatshirt, hand washing is an excellent option.
- Fill a basin with cold water and a small amount of gentle detergent.
- Submerge the sweatshirt and gently swirl it for a few minutes.
- Rinse with cool water until all the detergent is out.
- Avoid wringing or twisting to dry—this damages fibers.
Hand washing is especially ideal for sweatshirts with special detailing, vintage finishes, or limited-edition designs.
Drying the Right Way
Avoid the dryer at all costs. High heat can:
- Shrink your sweatshirt
- Weaken fibers
- Fade color
- Distort any prints or embroidery
Best Practices for Drying:
- Air dry flat: Lay your sweatshirt on a clean towel in its natural shape. This prevents stretching, especially at the shoulders or neckline.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Strong UV rays can bleach or fade colors. Dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
- Skip the hanger: Hanging a wet sweatshirt can cause it to stretch out, especially around the neck and shoulders.
If you’re short on space, you can hang it over a wide drying rack, supporting the body and sleeves to avoid stress on any one area.
Ironing & Steaming
Bar Sweatshirts generally don’t need ironing—but if you want to smooth out wrinkles:
- Use a steamer instead of an iron. It’s gentler on the fabric and won’t leave shiny press marks.
- If you must iron, turn the sweatshirt inside out, use the lowest heat setting, and place a cotton cloth between the iron and the fabric.
- Never iron directly over prints, logos, or embroidery.
Storing Your Sweatshirt Properly
Proper storage keeps your sweatshirt fresh and maintains its shape.
Storage Tips:
- Fold, don’t hang: Hanging can cause your sweatshirt to stretch over time. Folding it neatly in your wardrobe or drawer is the best option.
- Keep away from moisture: Store in a dry, cool place to avoid mold or mildew.
- Use cedar balls or lavender sachets to keep your sweatshirt smelling fresh and to prevent insect damage.
If you’re storing your sweatshirt for an extended period (like in the off-season), place it in a breathable cotton bag—never a plastic one. This allows airflow and prevents trapped moisture.
Spot Cleaning for Small Stains
Sometimes a full wash isn’t necessary. Spot cleaning can save your sweatshirt and reduce wear from frequent washing.
- Use a soft cloth, cold water, and a gentle detergent.
- Dab—don’t rub—the stained area.
- Rinse gently with clean water and let it air dry.
Avoid using stain pens or harsh chemicals that can bleach or damage fabric, especially on darker colors.
Dealing With Pilling
Pilling is natural over time, especially in areas with friction (like under the arms or the sides). Here’s how to fix it:
- Use a fabric shaver to gently remove pills.
- You can also use a lint roller for surface fuzz.
- Avoid razors or scissors—they can tear the fabric.
Washing inside out, as mentioned earlier, is one of the best preventative measures for pilling.
Travel Care Tips
If you’re taking your Bar Sweatshirt on the go:
- Fold it neatly to avoid wrinkles.
- Place tissue paper inside folds to minimize creasing.
- If your luggage allows, pack it in a garment bag or on top of your stack to avoid heavy pressure.
Once you arrive, hang it for a few hours or give it a quick steam to freshen it up.
Refreshing Between Wears
If your sweatshirt isn’t dirty but feels a bit tired:
- Hang it in a steamy bathroom to relax wrinkles.
- Use a gentle fabric spray for a fresh scent.
- Let it air out overnight before wearing again.
This routine can help you wear it more often between washes without compromising hygiene or freshness.
Final Thoughts
Owning a Bar Sweatshirt isn’t just about fashion—it’s about investing in high-quality comfort that lasts. With the right care, your sweatshirt won’t just survive season after season; it’ll thrive. Whether you prefer the bold edge of the varsity styles, the subtle elegance of neutrals, or the oversized, laid-back look, each piece deserves attention and respect.
Following the steps outlined in this guide ensures your Bar Sweatshirt remains just as stylish and cozy as when you first unboxed it. From wash to wear to storage, these small habits will help you get the most out of your wardrobe staple—ensuring it always looks good, feels great, and stands the test of time.
