Have you ever heard horror stories about a friend washing a sweater and shrinking the heck out of it? Or have you yourself washed a beloved t-shirt only to find it no longer fits correctly?
Merino wool is a luxurious natural fiber that beautifully highlights textured patterns while maintaining its softness. It also has some wonderful properties, such as odor resistance and moisture wicking.
Unlike a synthetic fiber though, merino wool require special care to maintain these qualities long term.
Washing Tips
To care for a handmade merino wool or wool-based item, such as a hat or cowl:
- Hand washing is the safest option. Use cool water, and don’t agitate the item (or else it could felt!)
- If your item is “superwash” wool, you may use the wool or gentle cycle on a washing machine.
- Cold or lukewarm water should always be used to wash any wool-based fibers to prevent shrinking or fiber damage.
- Use a gentle detergent that is suitable for delicate fabrics.
- Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric.
- Air dry flat on a clean towel. Avoid hanging to prevent stretching.
Machine Washing vs. Hand Washing vs. Dry Cleaning
It cannot be stated enough that you should never use hot water to wash any kind of merino wool. Hot water can cause irreversible shrinking and felting, permanently damaging your item.
Machine washing
If your item is a wool-acrylic blend, you may use the gentle or cool cycle on your washing machine. Be sure to use a gentle wool-friendly detergent
Hand washing
Hand washing is simple enough; fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water, add some soap, and let the item soak for a bit. Do not agitate or swish the item around in the water.
Dry cleaning
Dry cleaning is not advised due to the nature of the chemicals used; it can be quite damaging to the wool fibers.
Drying Merino Wool
After your item is done in the wash, it’s time to dry it! If you hand washed your item, gently squeeze the extra water out of it. Do not twist or wring the item. If there is still an excess of water, you can squeeze it between two clean towels to absorb it.
Lay the item flat on a clean surface; this will help it preserve its shape. Try to avoid hanging merino wool if possible. You can prevent shrinkage by keeping it away from heat and direct sunlight.
Long-term Care
Once you’ve cleaned your merino wool, it’s time to store it! If possible, these items should be folded, not hanged, and placed in a cool and dry place. If moths are a concern, cedar blocks or lavender sachets can be used to deter pests.
Since merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, you don’t have to wash it after each wear as long as you air it out regularly.