BAPE (A Bathing Ape) hoodies are a statement piece in any streetwear collection. With their high-quality materials, bold designs, and limited-edition status, a BAPE hoodie isn’t just about looking cool—it’s also about preserving the investment you’ve made in your wardrobe. To keep your BAPE hoodie looking fresh and in top condition, proper care and maintenance are essential.
Whether you’ve just splurged on your first BAPE hoodie or you’re a seasoned collector, this guide will show you the best practices for keeping your hoodie in excellent shape for years to come.
1. Read the Care Label
Before anything else, always check the care label inside your BAPE hoodie. Each hoodie is made with specific materials, and manufacturers provide instructions on how to best care for those fabrics. Some may be machine washable, while others may require hand washing or dry cleaning.
If you don’t have the original care label (for example, if you’re buying a pre-owned hoodie), try to determine the fabric content and adjust your washing methods accordingly. Most BAPE hoodies are made from cotton and polyester blends, which are machine washable, but always be sure to check.
2. Turn Your Hoodie Inside Out Before Washing
One of the best ways to preserve the integrity of your BAPE hoodie’s design and fabric is by turning it inside out before washing. This protects the logo, prints, and graphics from rubbing against other clothes in the wash, preventing fading and damage.
It also helps to protect the vibrant colors of BAPE’s signature camo patterns, which can sometimes be prone to fading if not treated carefully.
3. Use Cold Water and Mild Detergent
BAPE hoodies, like any other streetwear piece, are best washed in cold water. Hot water can cause the fabric to shrink, distort, or fade more quickly, which is the last thing you want for a premium hoodie.
To further protect your hoodie, use a mild detergent—something that’s gentle on colors and won’t strip the fabrics of their natural softness. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or detergents with strong fragrances, as these can damage the material and affect the vibrancy of the design.
4. Avoid Fabric Softeners
While fabric softeners may seem like a good way to keep your hoodie feeling soft and fresh, they can actually cause damage over time. The chemicals in fabric softeners can break down the fabric fibers, which may lead to pilling or fading of the iconic BAPE designs.
If you're concerned about softness, try adding a little white vinegar to the wash to keep the fabric feeling fresh without compromising its quality.
5. Wash with Similar Colors
When washing your BAPE hoodie, always wash it with similar colors to prevent any potential color bleeding. For example, don’t mix your bright-colored BAPE hoodie with whites or lighter shades, as dye transfer can occur, which could leave your hoodie looking dull.
If your hoodie has a dark or bright color scheme, wash it with similar colors or other dark clothes to avoid any unwanted transfer.
6. Use a Gentle Cycle
When machine washing, always opt for a gentle or delicate cycle to avoid rough treatment of your hoodie. The tumbling action of a normal cycle can be too harsh and may cause the fabric to lose its shape or affect the design.
A gentle cycle reduces the risk of stretching, shrinking, or damaging the delicate stitching and details that make BAPE hoodies so special.
7. Avoid the Dryer—Air Dry Only
One of the most important rules in caring for your BAPE hoodie is to avoid putting it in the dryer. High heat from the dryer can cause the fabric to shrink, fade, or lose its soft feel. It can also cause the hoodie’s design, especially printed logos or patterns, to crack or peel.
Instead, lay your hoodie flat to air dry, or hang it on a clothesline away from direct sunlight. Avoid hanging it in direct sunlight for long periods, as this can cause fading over time. If you prefer to dry it indoors, place it in a well-ventilated area with a steady flow of air.
8. Store Your Hoodie Properly
How you store your BAPE hoodie also plays a big role in maintaining its fresh look. When you're not wearing it, be sure to store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, humidity, or any areas where it may get dirty.
For optimal storage, fold your hoodie neatly or hang it on a padded hanger (to avoid stretching the fabric or misshaping the hoodie). If your hoodie has a special design or is a limited edition, consider keeping it in a garment bag to protect it from dust, dirt, and potential damage.
Avoid cramming your BAPE hoodie into tight spaces in your closet, as this can cause the fabric to stretch or lose its shape over time. Give it plenty of room to hang freely.
9. Spot Clean When Necessary
If your BAPE hoodie gets a small stain or dirt patch, try spot cleaning instead of washing the entire hoodie. Use a gentle stain remover or a soft cloth with mild soap and water to gently dab the stained area.
Be sure to test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the fabric or design. Spot cleaning can help you maintain the freshness of the hoodie without having to do a full wash every time a small stain appears.
10. Avoid Ironing Directly on the Design
BAPE hoodies often feature intricate designs, such as the Ape Head logo or detailed camo patterns, which can be damaged by direct heat. If you need to iron your hoodie, make sure to turn it inside out and use a low-heat setting.
Alternatively, you can place a cloth over the design before ironing to create a barrier between the iron and the hoodie. This helps protect the graphics from heat, which could cause them to melt, crack, or fade over time.
11. Dry Cleaning (If Necessary)
While most BAPE hoodies can be safely washed at home, some limited-edition or high-end pieces may require professional care. If your hoodie is made from more delicate materials or has a complicated design, consider taking it to a dry cleaner that specializes in high-end fashion.
Be sure to inform them about the specific fabric and design, as some designs (such as those with embroidery or special prints) may need to be treated with extra care.
Bonus Tip: Rotate Your Hoodies
If you have multiple BAPE hoodies or streetwear pieces in your collection, rotate them regularly to give each one a break. Constantly wearing and washing the same hoodie can cause it to wear out faster. By rotating your pieces, you’ll reduce the strain on any single hoodie and help keep them looking fresh for longer.
Conclusion
Taking proper care of your BAPE hoodie will help preserve its vibrant design, keep it feeling soft and comfortable, and extend its lifespan. By following the simple steps outlined above, including washing it with care, air drying, and storing it properly, you’ll ensure that your hoodie stays in excellent condition for years to come.
BAPE hoodies are an investment, and with a little attention and love, you can continue rocking these iconic pieces without worrying about premature wear and tear. By treating your BAPE hoodie like the streetwear gem it is, you’ll be able to enjoy its signature style and quality for many seasons to come.
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