“How do you wash wool clothes?” It’s a question we hear a lot, so it deserves its own blog post. After reading these Tips and facts, even a child can do the (wool) laundry!
Do you also find yourself standing in front of the washing machine, unsure of what to do, when it's time to wash the wool?
...Should I, or shouldn't I…
...What if my favorite sweater ends up being the size of a doll's sweater…
...What if my knitted or crocheted masterpiece loses that vibrant color or perfect fit…
Stop hesitating! Wool is much easier to care for than you think, and with the right approach, your favorite wool items will stay in top condition. Below, we’ll explain in detail the best way to wash wool garments without causing them to shrink or lose their color.
Tips and Facts About Washing Wool
Wool is self-cleaning
Sure, sometimes using the washing machine and detergent is unavoidable. But did you know that wool is self-cleaning? That’s because wool contains lanolin, a natural wax that repels dirt and water. When lanolin comes into contact with moisture, it acts like natural soap. So, to give your sweater or cardigan a nice refresh, just hang it outside on the clothesline or in front of an open window. That saves you a wash cycle.
Washing Wool in the Washing Machine
Even if there are stains or unpleasant odors, you can safely put woolen clothing in the washing machine. Do not wash wool with other materials, and do not overfill the drum. Wool needs enough space to move around. The maximum load is 1 to 2 kg. Always use the special wool cycle for woolen clothing. This cycle heats up slowly to 30 °C and ensures that the delicate wool fibers gradually acclimate to this temperature. Spin at a maximum of 600 revolutions per minute. The less friction, the better.
Washing Wool by Hand
If your washing machine doesn’t have a wool cycle, you’ll have no choice but to wash your sweater by hand. This might seem safer because you’re convinced you’ll handle that beautiful sweater more gently than the washing machine. Still, you need to be careful! In particular, make sure the water temperature doesn’t exceed 30°C (trust us, thirty degrees feels surprisingly cool). Fill the bathtub with just a little water, add a tiny bit of detergent, turn your sweater inside out, submerge it in the water, and let it soak for no more than 10 minutes. Then rinse it thoroughly—but gently—and pat the water out of your sweater with a towel. Do not wring it out!/p>
Wool Detergent: How Do You Use It?
In addition to how you wash wool, it’s also important what you use to treat it. Always choose a special wool detergent, such as the well-known Eucalan detergent. Among other things, this detergent protects wool’s natural oil layer. Furthermore, wool detergents are pH-neutral and contain no enzymes that can damage the natural fibers of wool. Fun fact: wool detergent lathers more than regular detergent to minimize friction between garments, making it the perfect choice for washing Cashmere, mohair, angora, and Merino Wool. Eucalan wool detergent is available in various scents, including Natural, eucalyptus, lavender, grapefruit, and jasmine. Never use fabric softener.
Drying Wool Clothing
Yes, that dryer is super handy and indispensable. But for woolen clothing, the dryer is a “no-go”! After you’ve washed the wool and spun it dry or patted it dry, lay your sweater or cardigan flat to dry on a clean, dry towel. Drying it flat helps it retain its shape. Don’t dry your woolen clothes in the sun to prevent discoloration. Is your woolen garment very wet? Roll it up in your towel and apply light pressure to the roll. Unroll the towel and let your garment dry flat.
Removing Stains from Wool Clothing
Oh no, you’ve been so careful, and yet there’s a stain on your favorite wool sweater. As we mentioned above, wool is naturally water-repellent. This means that spilled liquids are absorbed slowly. So tackle stains right away! Be gentle: blot the stain dry with an absorbent cloth. Above all, don’t rub it. Then rinse the stain with cold or lukewarm water. If the stain doesn’t come out, it’s time to put it in the washing machine (on the wool cycle, of course) or, as a last resort, take it to the dry cleaner.
Now that you know all there is to know about washing woolen clothes, we’d like to give you two more bonus tips on how to care for and store your favorite woolen items. Make the most of them!
Caring for Wool Clothing
To keep looking great and getting compliments on that cozy wool sweater, it needs more care than just washing and drying. Wool has one drawback: it pills faster than other materials. With a lint shaver, you can easily remove pills from your clothes. A handy little gadget!
Storing Wool Clothing
During the colder months, your favorite wool sweater will more often than not be in the closet. Hang it on a hanger frequently during this time; fresh air is good for your sweater and keeps moths away. When it’s time to switch to your summer wardrobe, store your woolen garments—after washing them—in a sealed plastic box. You might want to add a small bag of lavender. Moths dislike this scent, so they’ll stay away from your woolen clothes.
Popular Yarn Kits
Ready to try out a new woolen garment? Check out this season’s most popular woolen sweaters, cardigans, and accessories here!
Do you still have questions after reading this blog? Let us know in the comments or stop by our inspiration center.
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