The Essentials hoodie by Fear of God is more than just a sweatshirt—it’s a streetwear essential known for its premium quality, relaxed fit, and clean design. Whether you’re rocking the signature taupe color or a rare seasonal release, proper care is key to maintaining the look, shape, and softness of your hoodie. Below is your complete guide on how to wash and care for your Essentials hoodie so it stays looking fresh, season after season.
Why Proper Care Matters
Essentials hoodies are made from high-quality cotton blends that feel soft but can be prone to fading, shrinking, or stretching if not treated correctly. The bold “ESSENTIALS” branding, often printed or rubberized, can also crack or peel if exposed to excessive heat or harsh detergents.
Pre-Wash Checklist
1. Check the Label
Every Essentials hoodie comes with a care label sewn inside—always follow these instructions as your first reference.
2. Turn It Inside Out
Turning your hoodie inside out helps protect the logo print and outer fabric from friction and wear during washing.
3. Spot Clean Stains First
Use a gentle stain remover or mild soap to treat small stains before tossing the hoodie into the wash. Avoid bleach at all costs—it can damage the fabric and discolor the logo.
Washing Instructions
✅ Use Cold Water
Cold water is best for preserving the color and shape of your Essentials hoodie. Hot water can shrink the fabric and fade dyes over time.
✅ Select Gentle Cycle
Set your washing machine to a delicate or gentle cycle to minimize wear and tear.
✅ Use Mild Detergent
Harsh detergents can degrade the fabric and dull the colors. Opt for a gentle, color-safe detergent with no bleach.
✅ Avoid Fabric Softeners
Although they make clothes feel softer, fabric softeners can leave residue and break down fibers over time—especially on premium cotton blends.
Drying Tips
❌ Do Not Use a Dryer
The high heat of a dryer can shrink your hoodie and damage the logo print. Air drying is strongly recommended.
✅ Lay Flat to Dry
Lay your hoodie flat on a clean towel or drying rack to help it retain its shape. Avoid hanging it up while wet, as that can stretch out the shoulders and neckline.
Ironing and Storage
✅ Iron Inside Out on Low Heat
If your hoodie is wrinkled, turn it inside out and use the lowest heat setting to iron it. Never iron directly on the logo or branding.
✅ Fold Instead of Hang
To avoid stretching, fold your hoodie instead of hanging it—especially if it’s heavy or damp.
Extra Tips to Prolong Life
- Avoid Over-Washing: Unless it’s dirty, you don’t need to wash your Essentials hoodie after every wear. Washing it too often accelerates fading and fiber breakdown.
- Use a Garment Bag: When washing, place your hoodie in a mesh garment bag to further protect it from agitation.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Moisture can lead to mildew or weird odors. Keep your hoodie in a well-ventilated drawer or shelf.
Conclusion
With the right care routine, your Essentials hoodie can stay soft, vibrant, and well-structured for years to come. Stick to cold water, gentle cycles, air drying, and low-heat ironing to maintain its premium look and feel. After all, this is more than just loungewear—it’s a core piece of modern streetwear. Treat it like the staple it is.