How to Care for Ribbed Knit Tops to Prevent Stretching
By Untouched World: Fine Merino Sustainable Fashion | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to care for your ribbed knit tops like the Lucia Funnel Neck and Nami Rib Crew to prevent stretching and keep their shape.
Quick Answer
To prevent stretching, always wash your ribbed merino tops on a gentle cycle or by hand, dry them flat, and avoid hanging them while wet.
Why Ribbed Knits Stretch
Ribbed knit tops are structured with vertical columns that create stretch and recovery. Over time, improper care—especially hanging them wet or using hot water—can break down the yarn's elasticity, leading to permanent bagging at the hem, cuffs, and neckline.
When to Choose Professional Care
For heavily soiled or very delicate ribbed garments, or if you're unsure about the care label, dry cleaning is a safe alternative. However, most Total Easy Care Merino pieces are machine washable; check the label first.
Diagnose & Fix Stretching in Ribbed Knit Tops
- Symptom: The hem, cuffs, or neckline of your ribbed top looks loose, wavy, or permanently baggy after wearing or washing.
- Likely Cause: The top was hung while wet, dried in a dryer, washed in hot water, or agitated too vigorously during the wash cycle.
- Corrective Action: Stop hanging the top. Lay it flat on a drying rack or clean towel, reshape it gently to original dimensions, and let it air dry away from direct heat. For washing, use cold water on a gentle/delicate cycle (or hand wash) and a mild wool-specific detergent. Avoid wringing or twisting. If the top has already stretched significantly, try gently steaming or lightly damping it and reshaping while flat—this can help restore some structure.
- Stop or Choose Another Option: If the stretching does not improve after a structured flat dry, the yarn may be permanently relaxed. At this point, consider replacing the top or using it as a relaxed-fit layering piece only.
Products to Consider
- Nami Rib Crew: This ribbed long-sleeve crew is designed for Total Easy Care Merino—machine washable and easy to maintain. The Nami Rib Crew's easy-care nature means you can wash it at home without special treatment, as long as you follow gentle cycle and flat-dry rules.
Nami Rib Crew - Lucia Funnel Neck: The Lucia Funnel Neck uses fine Merino wool with a ribbed stitch structure that requires careful lay-flat drying to maintain its shape. Choosing to air-dry the Lucia flat instead of hanging prevents the neckline and hem from stretching out over time.
Lucia Funnel Neck
