How-to Guide: Wool Washing & Care
(Because we all know what happens when you don’t!)
You know the feeling of pulling out your favorite woolen item from the washing machine only to find it misshapen, pulled, or even shrunk? Devastating. Yet, it can easily happen. Suddenly, that expensive knit you love looks better on your nine-year-old.
But washing your woolens doesn't have to be a hassle.
What’s so great about wool, anyway?
Well, it's a delicate yet warm natural fiber. Wool clothing is hard-wearing and versatile; frankly, it should be a staple in every winter wardrobe. It even reacts to your body temperature. Cool, huh? Better still, it doesn't wrinkle (yes to no ironing!), and it's natural and biodegradable. The slight catch is keeping it clean, but even that is straightforward when you know how. So lose the excuses and never get it wrong again by following our easy how-to guide.
General care
⭐️ Spot clean your woolens throughout the season to vanquish annoying spills
⭐️ Air your items out after each wear to get rid of unexpected smells
⭐️ Fold to store (preferably in a cedar drawer) - don't hang!
⭐️ If possible, only wash only at the end of the season
⭐️ Dry clean if you can
Washing
⭐️ When it comes to washing, it’s always better to handwash
⭐️ Keep your water temperature around 30° C / 90° F. If it’s too hot it could shrink
⭐️ Use a delicate detergent. Heavy detergents contain chemicals that can damage wool fibers
⭐️ Always wash inside out
⭐️ Submerge in the water and gently swirl it around to let the detergent get in between the fibers
⭐️ Don't rub the fabric together — this is how it loses its shape
⭐️ Rinse twice. It’s important to remove the residual detergent from the wool.
⭐️ Squeeze or press the item to remove as much excess water as possible. Don’t wring it. Rolling it into a towel can be helpful.
⭐️ To dry, it’s important not to hang it. Instead, lay it on mesh or a towel and ensure it’s evenly spread out and in shape. Be careful to keep the item out of direct sunlight.
⭐️ Never use the dryer!
Is machine washing okay?
Sometimes! Be sure to follow the instructions on the item. Some wool items are acceptable on the ‘delicate’ or ‘wool’ cycle, so if it fits, go ahead.
Beautiful Wool Fashion At StyleSpree
Cashmere - The Queen of wool
Like all wool items, work with your cashmere items turned inside out. Soak them for about five minutes before doing anything. This loosens the dirt for the finer threads of cashmere. Then, very gently swirl them around and gently squeeze out the water. The 'no wringing' rule is most important for cashmere, so bare that in mind.
Amazing Wool CARE Helpers we love
A drying rack is the best tool for drying wool and other sensitive fabrics since it ensures items don't lose their shape.
A special wool razor helps remove those annoying little pills, but be sure to use it gently!
And, of course, an all-natural wool detergent for handwashing or the washing machine (if you dare!). These 3 items will prove great investments in providing the best care to your wool products, helping them look better and last longer.
Final words
We'll say it again. Washing your woolens doesn't have to be a hassle. If you treat them well and follow these simples steps, there's no reason you wont get years of wear out of your favorite items. They're worth it, after all.
