A Ralph Lauren hoodie is more than just a casual staple—it’s a wardrobe investment that reflects timeless style and premium craftsmanship. Whether you’ve chosen a classic Polo Bear fleece, a sleek performance hoodie, or a vintage-inspired graphic pullover, proper care is essential to keep your hoodie looking sharp, soft, and vibrant for years to come.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean, store, and maintain your Ralph Lauren hoodie to preserve its quality, shape, and signature look.
Why Proper Care Matters
Taking care of your Ralph Lauren hoodie isn’t just about cleanliness—it’s about preserving the fit, color, and softness that make it special. Improper washing can lead to:
- Shrinkage or fabric distortion
- Fading logos and graphics
- Pilling and rough texture
- Weakening of the garment’s shape and stitching
Avoid common laundry mistakes and follow the best practices below.
Step 1: Read the Care Label First
Before doing anything, always check the care label sewn inside your hoodie. Ralph Lauren uses different materials across collections—like cotton, fleece, French terry, or performance blends—which means care instructions may vary.
Look for these symbols and instructions:
- Machine wash cold
- Do not bleach
- Tumble dry low or lay flat to dry
- Cool iron if needed
- Do not dry clean (unless otherwise stated)
Step 2: Washing Your Ralph Lauren Hoodie
✅ Best Practices for Machine Washing
- Turn It Inside Out
This protects logos, embroidery, and graphics from abrasion during the wash cycle. - Use Cold Water
Cold water helps preserve color vibrancy and prevent shrinkage, especially for cotton-based hoodies. - Choose a Gentle Cycle
Delicate or hand-wash settings reduce stress on the fabric and maintain its softness. - Use Mild Detergent
Avoid harsh chemicals, fabric softeners, or bleach. Opt for color-safe and enzyme-free detergents. - Wash With Similar Colors
Group your hoodie with similar tones to prevent dye transfer.
Step 3: Drying Your Hoodie the Right Way
✅ Air Drying (Recommended)
- Lay your hoodie flat on a clean, dry towel or drying rack.
- Reshape it while damp to prevent stretching or distortion.
- Avoid hanging it while wet, as this can cause the shoulders to sag.
⚠️ If You Use a Dryer
- Tumble dry on low heat only.
- Remove promptly to avoid wrinkles or overheating.
- Avoid high heat, which can cause shrinking or damage synthetic trims.
Step 4: Ironing and Steaming
- If needed, iron on low heat with a cloth barrier to protect prints or embroidery.
- Steaming is safer for removing wrinkles and refreshing the fabric without flattening its texture.
- Never iron directly over logos or graphics.
Step 5: Storing Your Hoodie Properly
✅ Fold, Don’t Hang
- Hanging can stretch out the shoulders and neckline over time.
- Fold neatly and store in a cool, dry drawer or shelf.
✅ Avoid Overcrowding
- Overpacking your storage space causes creases and can warp the garment’s shape.
- Give your hoodie space to breathe.
✅ Store With Freshness in Mind
- Add a cedar block or sachet to drawers to prevent mustiness.
- Make sure the hoodie is fully dry before storing to avoid mildew or odor.
Bonus Tips: Long-Term Maintenance
🧵 De-Pill Regularly
- Use a fabric shaver or sweater stone to remove any pilling (especially on fleece hoodies).
☁️ Refresh Between Washes
- Use a garment spray or fabric mist to keep your hoodie smelling fresh.
- Spot clean small stains with a damp cloth and gentle soap.
🧼 Limit Frequent Washing
- Hoodies don’t need to be washed after every wear unless heavily soiled.
- Washing less often preserves color and softness.
Final Thoughts
With the right care, your Ralph Lauren hoodie can remain a reliable, stylish companion for years to come. By following these cleaning and maintenance tips, you’ll keep your hoodie looking and feeling as good as new—whether it’s a weekend essential, a layering piece, or a fashion statement.
Treat it like the investment it is, and it will return the favor with long-lasting quality and classic style.