How-to

Wash Hoodies and Sweatshirts in Six Steps: Inside Out, Cold Water, Label First

An approachable routine to limit fading, excess friction and shrinkage in hoodies and sweatshirts. Compare official Nike and adidas guidance while keeping the actual garment's wash and drying symbols first.

4 min read2026-10-27

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Originaladidas advice on black hoodie fading and dryingadidas — Black Hoodies & Sweatshirts FAQ · Original publisher

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01

What you need

Your sweatshirt's care label
Mild suitable laundry detergent
Separate light and dark laundry loads
Drying rack and ventilated space

02

How to

1. Read the sewn-in symbols for machine-wash permission, temperature, bleach and tumble drying. Fleece, printed and blended garments may differ; the specific product label overrides general brand advice.
2. Empty pockets, close any zipper and loosely secure hood drawstrings so they do not slip out. Treat a visible stain early using a fabric-appropriate gentle method, and avoid harsh stain remover on printed graphics.
3. Separate darks and lights, then turn the hoodie inside out to reduce rubbing on its outer face. Nike recommends washing similar garments together, turning the garment inside out and securing zippers.
4. Where the label permits, use a cold gentle cycle and an appropriate mild detergent. Nike and adidas recommend cool washing and leaving space in the drum rather than overloading it. Isolate heavily soiled items as needed.
5. Remove the hoodie promptly, gently smooth the hood, shoulders and cuffs, then air dry in a well-ventilated place. adidas prioritizes air drying black hoodies but notes that low tumble heat can be used when appropriate and permitted.
6. Check that the thick hood and cuffs are fully dry before folding or hanging on a suitable hanger. Avoid applying unapproved high heat, especially to prints and fleece, and refer to the label again next time.

One more tip

Fleece, French terry, prints and blends may need different care. adidas generally prioritizes air drying for black hoodies but permits low heat when suitable. Do not claim that every hoodie universally bans tumble drying.

Sources and media

OriginalNike's original step-by-step guide to washing hoodiesNike — How to Wash Hoodies · Original publisher

K-fashion · winter fleece care · November 20268 min

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