Some people call them “hanger bumps,” others refer to them as “shoulder horns,” and a shockingly high number of internet articles use the term “sweater nipples.” No matter the name, these pesky fabric bulges are an unsightly downside to storing shirts and sweaters on a hanger. Thankfully, there are a few methods to prevent these…
Use Padded or Velvet Hangers
Smooth plastic and wooden hangers don’t provide enough support for heavier garments, which can easily slide down the shoulders and stretch out. Padded hangers, however, are designed to distribute the weight of a shirt or sweater more evenly, offering added support to keep their natural shape intact. Another option: velvet hangers, which create friction to hold fabric in place, helping to prevent slipping, creases, and unattractive bumps.
Avoid Hanging Heavy or Bulky Sweaters
It’s best to avoid hanging your heavy or bulky sweaters, as the extra weight can ruin their shape, leading to shoulder bumps and overstretched necklines. Instead, neatly fold your sweaters and tuck them into deep drawers or stackable storage bins to maintain their form.
Of course, we understand that not everyone has enough drawer space for large, folded sweaters, and often there’s no choice but to hang them. If this is the case for you, try this no-crease hack: On a flat surface, fold the sweater in half lengthwise, aligning the sleeves. Then, position the hanger diagonally on top of the sweater, with the hook in the armpit area, facing outward. Fold both sleeves over one shoulder of the hanger, followed by the torso, creating a crisscross shape. (If you’re a visual learner, here’s a video tutorial.) Hang it in your closet, and say goodbye to shoulder bumps.
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Dab Water on the Bumps
Nothing is worse than noticing hanger bumps right before you head out the door. Rather than change your entire outfit, go to the sink, wet your fingers, and rub them along the bumps to flatten them. Alternatively, you can do this with an ice cube. Dampening the hanger bumps resets the fibers, and the shirt will dry noticeably flatter within 10 minutes. Another option is to spray a bit of Downy Wrinkle Release onto the affected areas to eliminate any bumps or wrinkles.
Though hanger bumps may seem inevitable, there are simple solutions to avoid or even remove them. Just follow these guidelines and you’ll get rid of those unsightly “sweater nipples” in no time at all.
