Care that keeps pieces in rotation.

Look for the fibre percentages and the care instructions, not only the name of a fibre. If either is missing, ask before you buy.

Check the seams, cuffs and neckline for loose stitches or snagged threads. Consider whether the knit's openness, weight and feel suit how you want to wear it. A light, open knit and a substantial winter knit serve different purposes; weight alone is not a quality verdict.

Ply describes the strands twisted together in a yarn. Extra plies can add weight, but a higher number is not, on its own, a quality rating. Softness, price and a photograph are not substitutes for clear material and construction information.

Move your arms, sit down and try your usual layer underneath. Notice the shoulder, sleeve and body length. Avoid forceful rubbing or stretching as a test of quality. If you need a specific fibre specification, ask for it rather than judging it by touch.

Wool does not necessarily need washing after every wear. Air it between wears and check whether it needs cleaning. Decide from the garment and its label, rather than a fixed number of wears. If you are unsure how to treat a stain, ask for advice before applying a product or rubbing the area.

Close zips and buttons, turn garments inside out, and separate heavy fabrics from delicate knits.

Machine washing: only use it when the garment's instructions permit it. Select an appropriate wool programme and follow the label's temperature and treatment limits. A cold wash or a programme called “delicate” does not replace that check.

Hand washing: follow the label's water-temperature limit. Move the garment gently in the water, rinse well and press out excess water without rubbing, twisting or wringing. Handle it carefully while wet.

For knitwear that should dry flat, gently return it to shape on a clean towel or suitable drying surface. Keep it away from radiators and direct sunlight. Do not hang wet knitwear: its weight can stretch the garment. Only tumble dry when the care label expressly allows it.

Hang woven pieces on a shaped hanger and smooth seams by hand.

Before longer storage, clean the garment as its label requires and let it dry fully. Fold knitted wool and cashmere rather than leaving them on hangers. Check stored pieces periodically.

Hang shirts, trousers and jackets on supportive hangers.

Choose a mild detergent intended for wool or cashmere and follow its dosing instructions. Avoid bleach and enzyme-containing detergents for wool.

A mild liquid detergent works for cotton and blends.

Refresh and release creases with steam, keeping the steamer a few centimetres from the fabric. Iron only when necessary, at the temperature shown on the care label, from the reverse side and with a clean pressing cloth.

Pilling is the formation of small balls of fibre on the surface. Friction during wear can contribute, and several factors affect it; pilling alone is not a complete assessment of quality.

Follow the maker's advice before using a de-pilling tool. Where suitable, work gently with a knitwear comb and stop if it catches the fabric. Ask for advice if pilling is extensive, the knit is delicate, or you are unsure which tool to use.

Wash denim and dark garments inside out in cold water. Avoid long soaking and high spin speeds to preserve colour, reduce streaks and keep the original hand feel.

Even well-loved pieces can need mending. Our repair service helps CYME favourites live longer: send a photo of the damage and we will assess it before any work begins.