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Back to School: Smart Shopping and Care for School Jumpers

Whether you like to get a head start or not, the back to school season is usually a little stressful for parents and carers, but it doesn't have to be. In this guide, we explore one essential item on the back to school list: the school jumper. We offer shopping tips to ensure the perfect fit as well as care advice to keep your jumpers looking smart all school year.
school jumpers

Why Do School Jumpers Go Bobbly?

Bobbles, also called "pilling", happen when small fabric fibres come loose. These fibres form tiny balls on the surface of the jumper. Bobbling is common with school jumpers because they are worn and washed often. Bobbling typically occurs when garments face frequent friction. School jumpers, which are worn under coats and jackets, face daily friction as the fabrics come into contact with each other. You may also notice more bobbling around the collar, armpits and waistband of the jumper too.

To prevent pilling, wash school jumpers inside out. Using a gentle cycle on your washing machine can also help to reduce wear and tear. If you already have bobbles on a school jumper and want to remove them, you can use a fabric shaver or a pair of scissors to carefully cut them off. Choosing good quality knits can also help to reduce bobbling as the fibres are more tightly woven together.
fabric softener

How Do You Soften School Jumpers?

New school jumpers can sometimes feel stiff. This might make them uncomfortable for children to wear. To soften them, you can use fabric softener when washing. Another tip is to add a small amount of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Vinegar softens fabric naturally and leaves no strong smell once dry. Drying the jumper flat after washing also helps it stay soft. Avoid wringing it out or hanging it up when wet as this can cause stretching.

How Do You Keep Fluff Off New School Jumpers?

New school jumpers often attract fluff. This is especially noticeable on darker colours. To prevent your child's jumper from becoming a fluff magnet, wash separately from items that are prone to shedding like fluffy towels and blankets. Wash before first wear and add a little fabric conditioner to the cycle. Fabric conditioner helps to coat the fibres of the garment, not only making them soft but less absorbent too. This helps stop fibres from other fabrics (a.k.a fluff) sticking to the jumper.

If you have a problem with persistent fluff, try air-drying the jumper instead of tumble drying. As fluff from other fabrics can stay in the dryer after a cycle. For a quick fix, use a lint roller to remove fluff build-up.
washing machine

Smart Shopping Tips for School Jumpers

When shopping for school jumpers, look for durable fabrics. Cotton blends or acrylic jumpers tend to hold up well. Make sure to buy a size that leaves room for growth, so the jumper lasts the whole school year. For more options, explore these school jumpers available in various sizes and styles. If your school requires a specific colour, check out these red school jumpers for a perfect match.

Caring for School Jumpers

To keep school jumpers looking new, wash them at the right temperature—usually 30°C or 40°C. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach, as this can damage the fabric over time. Always read the care instructions on the label before washing.

By following these tips, your child’s school jumper will stay clean, comfortable, and last longer.  
boy sat on chair wearing school jumper

Conclusion

Preparing for the back-to-school season doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right number of jumpers, proper care, and smart shopping choices, you can ensure your child’s uniform looks great all year round. By following these tips, you'll keep school jumpers soft, clean, and free of bobbles—helping your child feel comfortable and confident at school.