Wash gently by hand in cool water with a mild wool wash. Squeeze the suds softly through the knit, never rubbing or twisting, then rinse in water of the same temperature.

Lift the piece out supporting its whole weight. Roll it inside a clean, dry towel and press to draw the water out. Wringing stretches the stitches and pulls the knit out of shape.

Ease the piece back into shape by hand and lay it flat on a fresh towel or a drying rack, away from radiators and direct sun, which can shrink the fibres and fade the colour.

On a hanger, knitwear slowly stretches under its own weight. Fold each piece loosely and keep it on a shelf or in a drawer, the heaviest knits at the bottom.

A little pilling is natural wherever knit rubs against itself. Hold the knit flat and glide a fabric comb lightly across the surface to lift the pills away.

Wash or air each piece before putting it away for the season, then store it in a breathable cotton bag with a few cedar blocks to help deter moths. Avoid sealed plastic, which traps moisture.