Essentials hoodie by Fear of God is a staple in many wardrobes due to its premium fabric, oversized fit, and stylish design. However, improper washing can lead to shrinkage, fading, and fabric damage. Whether you’ve just bought a new hoodie or want to maintain an older one, following the right washing techniques is essential.
In this guide, we will walk you through the best ways to wash your Essentials hoodie to preserve its softness, shape, and high-quality finish.
Contents
- Why Properly Washing an Essentials Hoodie Matters
- How Often Should You Wash an Essentials Hoodie?
- Checking the Care Label Before Washing
- Preparing Your Essentials Hoodie for Washing
- How to Wash an Essentials Hoodie in the Washing Machine
- How to Hand Wash an Essentials Hoodie
- How to Dry an Essentials Hoodie Properly
- How to Remove Wrinkles from an Essentials Hoodie
- How to Keep an Essentials Hoodie Looking New
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Conclusion
Why Properly Washing an Essentials Hoodie Matters
Essentials hoodies are made from a cotton-polyester blend, giving them a soft, premium feel. However, incorrect washing methods can cause:
- Shrinkage – High heat can cause cotton fibers to shrink, making the hoodie lose its oversized fit.
- Fading – Harsh detergents or excessive washing can dull the hoodie’s color.
- Cracked Logos – The screen-printed “ESSENTIALS” logo may peel or crack with improper care.
- Loss of Softness – Over-washing and using the wrong detergent can make the fabric feel rough.
By following the right washing routine, you can keep your Essentials hoodie looking and feeling fresh for years.
How Often Should You Wash an Essentials Hoodie?
How frequently you wash your hoodie depends on how often you wear it.
- After 5-7 wears – If you wear it casually and it’s not heavily soiled.
- After 2-3 wears – If you sweat in it or wear it in humid conditions.
- Immediately – If it has noticeable stains or strong odors.
Washing too frequently can wear down the fabric, so it’s best to clean it only when necessary.
Checking the Care Label Before Washing
Before washing your Essentials hoodie, check the care label inside the hoodie. It provides important washing instructions specific to the fabric type.
Most Essentials hoodies have these care instructions:
- Machine wash cold – Prevents shrinkage and fading.
- Use mild detergent – Protects the fabric from damage.
- Avoid bleach – Harsh chemicals can weaken the fabric and ruin the logo.
- Do not tumble dry – Air drying is recommended to maintain the oversized fit.
Ignoring these instructions can shorten the lifespan of your hoodie.
Preparing Your Essentials Hoodie for Washing
Step 1: Turn the Hoodie Inside Out
This helps:
- Protect the logo from cracking or peeling.
- Reduce friction that causes fabric pilling.
- Preserve the hoodie’s color.
Step 2: Check for Stains
If your hoodie has visible stains, pre-treat them before washing:
- Oil stains – Apply dish soap and gently rub it in before washing.
- Sweat stains – Mix baking soda with water to create a paste, apply to the stain, and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Ink stains – Dab rubbing alcohol on the stain with a cotton ball before washing.
Step 3: Zip Up or Button Up
If your hoodie has a zipper, zip it up before washing to prevent it from snagging on other clothes.
How to Wash an Essentials Hoodie in the Washing Machine
If the care label allows machine washing, follow these steps for safe cleaning.
Step 1: Choose the Right Detergent
Use a mild detergent that is free of harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners. Harsh detergents can cause the hoodie to lose its softness and vibrancy.
Step 2: Select the Right Wash Cycle
- Water temperature – Use cold water (30°C or lower) to prevent shrinkage.
- Wash cycle – Select a gentle or delicate cycle to protect the fabric.
- Spin cycle – Use low speed to reduce stress on the fabric.
Step 3: Wash with Similar Colors
Wash your hoodie separately or with similar colors to prevent color bleeding. Avoid mixing with rough fabrics like denim, which can cause pilling.
Step 4: Avoid Fabric Softeners
Fabric softeners can break down the fibers and reduce the hoodie’s softness over time. Instead, add ½ cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to maintain softness without damaging the fabric.
How to Hand Wash an Essentials Hoodie
If you prefer hand washing to maintain the fabric’s integrity, follow these steps:
Step 1: Fill a Basin with Cold Water
Fill a clean sink or tub with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
Step 2: Soak and Gently Agitate
- Submerge the hoodie in the water.
- Gently swish it around to loosen dirt and odors.
- Let it soak for 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly
Drain the soapy water and rinse the hoodie under cold water until all detergent is removed.
Step 4: Remove Excess Water
- Do not wring the hoodie, as this can distort its shape.
- Instead, gently press out excess water or roll it in a clean towel.
How to Dry an Essentials Hoodie Properly
Step 1: Air Dry Flat
Lay your hoodie flat on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area. Avoid hanging it, as this can stretch the fabric.
Step 2: Keep It Away from Direct Heat
- Avoid tumble drying, as heat can shrink the fabric.
- Do not place it in direct sunlight, which can cause fading.
Step 3: Reshape While Drying
While the hoodie is still damp, gently reshape it to maintain its original fit.
How to Remove Wrinkles from an Essentials Hoodie
If your hoodie gets wrinkled after washing, avoid ironing directly on the logo, as heat can damage the print. Instead:
- Use a garment steamer – Safest option to remove wrinkles.
- Hang it in the bathroom while showering – The steam helps relax the fabric.
- Use a cool iron with a cloth barrier – Place a towel over the hoodie and iron on low heat.
How to Keep an Essentials Hoodie Looking New
- Wash less often – Overwashing can wear down the fabric.
- Store it properly – Fold instead of hanging to avoid stretching.
- Spot clean minor stains – Reduces the need for frequent washing.
- Use a lint roller – Keeps the fabric looking fresh between washes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using hot water – Can cause shrinkage and fabric damage.
- Tumble drying – High heat can alter the shape and damage the logo.
- Overloading the washer – Can create excess friction and fading.
- Skipping stain pre-treatment – Stains can become permanent if not addressed before washing.
Conclusion
Properly washing your Essentials hoodie ensures it remains soft, stylish, and long-lasting. Always check the care label, use cold water and mild detergent, and avoid high heat to preserve the hoodie’s fit and fabric. Whether you choose to hand wash or machine wash, following these steps will keep your hoodie looking fresh for years.
By taking care of your hoodie properly, you can enjoy its premium feel and oversized fit without worrying about shrinkage, fading, or damage.