The Essentials Black Hoodie by Fear of God isn’t just another casual sweatshirt—it’s a premium piece of streetwear. Designed with high-quality fleece and minimalist styling, this hoodie can last for years with the right care. But to preserve its color, shape, softness, and iconic branding, you’ll need to treat it properly. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to care for your Essentials Black Hoodie and keep it looking new wear after wear.
1. Read the Care Label First
Before anything else, always check the care tag inside your hoodie. Essentials typically provides specific instructions depending on the fabric blend used for that season’s release.
- Look for guidance on water temperature, drying, and fabric treatment.
- Follow the label closely to avoid damaging the material or logo.
2. Wash Inside Out to Protect the Exterior
The “ESSENTIALS” logo is often rubberized or flocked, making it prone to wear from abrasion or heat.
- Always turn the hoodie inside out before washing to protect the logo and exterior fleece.
- This simple step helps preserve the finish and prevent pilling.
3. Use Cold Water and a Gentle Cycle
Essentials hoodies are made from a cotton/polyester blend, which can shrink or lose shape with improper washing.
- Wash in cold water to maintain color and reduce shrinkage.
- Select a gentle or delicate cycle to reduce stress on fabric and seams.
Avoid hot water, which can fade the deep black color and warp the fit.
4. Choose a Mild Detergent
Harsh detergents can break down fleece fibers and cause fading over time.
- Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent.
- Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, or color boosters—they can damage both color and texture.
- For odor removal, add a small amount of white vinegar to the rinse cycle instead.
5. Air Dry for Best Results
Heat is one of the biggest threats to your hoodie’s longevity.
- Lay your hoodie flat to dry on a clean towel or drying rack.
- Keep it out of direct sunlight, which can fade black fabrics.
- If you must use a dryer, tumble dry on low heat or air fluff setting.
Air drying maintains the hoodie’s original fit and softness.
6. Avoid Ironing the Logo
If your hoodie gets wrinkled, resist the urge to iron the logo area.
- If ironing is needed, turn the hoodie inside out and use a low-heat setting.
- Place a thin cloth between the iron and the fabric.
- Never iron directly over rubberized or printed branding.
This prevents the logo from melting, cracking, or peeling.
7. Store Properly to Retain Shape
How you store your hoodie also affects its longevity.
- Fold it neatly or hang it on a thick, padded hanger to avoid shoulder bumps.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light.
- Avoid overcrowding if you’re hanging it—compression can stretch or wrinkle the fabric.
Proper storage keeps it ready-to-wear at all times.
8. Spot Clean When Possible
To extend time between washes:
- Spot clean small stains using a soft cloth and mild soap solution.
- Dab gently rather than rubbing to avoid fuzzing the fleece.
- Let the area air dry after spot cleaning.
This method reduces unnecessary wear from frequent full washes.
Conclusion
Your Essentials Black Hoodie is a modern classic that deserves proper care to retain its clean lines, rich black color, and soft feel. By following these care tips—washing inside out, using cold water, skipping the dryer, and protecting the branding—you can extend the life and appearance of your hoodie for years. Minimalist doesn’t mean low maintenance—but the payoff is a hoodie that stays fresh, functional, and fashionable every time you wear it.