There’s no doubt you’ve heard of an Oodie before. They’re everywhere. But if not and you’re keen to know more, or even if you just want to brush up on what exactly one is and how it came about, read on.
What Is an ‘Oodie’?
Well, it’s the brainchild of two South Australian brothers — shop local! — and essentially it’s an oversized, wearable, hooded blanket. Or, as the official website said, the Oodie “is like a jumper crossed with a blanket, crossed with a cloud.” Lined with sherpa, it features a kangaroo pouch for… storing snacks in, most likely.
If you’re yet to own one or see someone wearing one — apparently it makes you (me) look like a navy Oompa Loompa — well, you would have definitely seen them all over your Instagram ads last year.
How to Wash an Oodie
Been convinced to purchase one? Good, they’ll change your life. But yes, as you’ll soon spend all your time in them, you should know how to take care of them.
According to Oodie (yes, the actual company), washing the cloudlike hoodie is pretty easy. The site said to in order to best preserve “the cuddliness and softness” of the product for as long as possible, hand washing in cold water is the way to go.
That’s not the only option if you’re not a fan of manual labour. You can machine wash in cold water on a gentle cycle — just make sure you only use mild detergents. Also, don’t mix with other colours in the wash. And, whatever you do, don’t tumble dry, iron, or dry clean. The second it’s dry, it’s time to get right back into it.
Didn’t splurge on an Oodie but went for one of the cheaper alternatives? Most of them are either hand or machine washable, but it’s always best to check the tag.
Where Can I Buy an Oodie?
They are an investment at over $100 a pop, which means it’s no surprise that other companies are coming up with their own more affordable versions. Big W has a $45 version in a variety of colours and prints — including a Lilo and Stitch patterned option.
Related: Your Winter Wardrobe’s Sorted ‘Cause Kmart’s Oodie Dupe Is Back in Stock
Related: The Best Oodies and Wearable Blankets to Keep You Cosy All Winter
Cotton On has come out with the “Snugget” — a snuggly jacket, we think? — and for this, they’re offering versions for both parents and kids. Best of all? The patterns go across both, so how’s that for a cute family portrait?
If you’re looking for a cheap option, Kmart is your best bet. Their “Pull Over Gown” is only $29 dollars. If you do miss out, though, might I suggest you consider investing in the real thing, an official Oodie? If you calculate cost per wear, honestly, it’s still a bargain. Here are three of our favourites.
Avocado Oodie, now $74 (was $109)
An ode to our favourite breakfast meal, the Avocado Oodie ($74, was $109) is one of our top pattern choices. The avocado and toast just look so happy together!
I Love Plants Oodie, now $74 (was $109)
Our house plants may be suffering from receiving too much love right now, but the I Love Plants Oodie ($74, was $109) is the ideal way to pay homage to our plant babies (without overdoing it with the TLC).
Koala Oodie, now $69 – $79 (was $94 – $109)
This Koala Oodie is the sweetest and cosiest wearable blanket we think we’ve ever seen and like most other Oodies, it comes in both kids sizes ($64, was $94) and adult sizes, ($74, was $109) too.
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