How to Clean Wool Clothing
Cleaning wool garments can sometimes be a daunting task. With the right tools, knowledge and approach, however, you can keep your wool garments in fantastic condition for years. In this article, we’ll talk you through everything you need to know about keeping your wool clothing (whether new or thrifted) looking and feeling great.
Wool Basics
Many types of clothing, especially winter garments, are made of wool because of its unique natural characteristics. Wool fibers are naturally crimped, creating air pockets that trap heat and make wool a great insulator. Wool can also absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet, making it a great option for keeping you dry and comfortable even when you get hot.
There is a large variety of wool types used in clothing, but the most common are merino, cashmere, and lambswool. Merino wool is known for its soft texture, temperature regulation, and lack of itchiness, and is the most commonly used wool in off-the-shelf garments. Cashmere is a more luxurious fiber, soft and lightweight, with great insulation properties. It requires more gentle care because of its delicate nature. Lambswool is produced from young sheep and is soft, smooth, and elastic, making it a great choice for knitwear. While not as delicate than cashmere, it still requires careful handling. You might also find wool blends, often with polyester or cotton, which can reduce a garment’s cost, make it easier to clean, and improve breathability—but at the cost of some of wool’s natural benefits.
Before undertaking any cleaning, check labels for care instructions and fabric content. Pure wool requires more delicate handling, and care symbols will help you identify how best to clean and maintain the garment.
When to Dry Clean Wool
There are absolutely situations where wool garments shouldn’t be cleaned at home. Extremely delicate cashmere sweaters, for example, or items with intricate details, should typically be taken to a dry cleaner to avoid damage. Tailored items, including blazers and wool coats, often have linings that can be altered by home washing. And vintage items, so perhaps 20 years or older, may also be more fragile and susceptible to damage. Check the label for guidance as well and use your judgment.
Preparing Wool Clothing for Cleaning
Before you start washing wool, it’s important to prep the garment and understand how it will react to cleaning. Here are some generic steps you can follow to ensure the best possible outcome:
- Brush off surface dirt, perhaps using a soft-bristled garment brush.
- Spot clean stains. Use a small amount of wool-safe detergent on stains.
- Check for colorfastness by testing a small, inconspicuous area of the garment (like an inside seam) with what you plan to use for the cleaning. Dab it against a white cloth and ensure there’s no color transfer.
- Close fasteners like zippers, buttons, and hooks.
- Turn garments inside out, as this helps to preserve the color and protect the fabric.
- Shake out loose dirt.
How to Wash Wool
One option for cleaning wool, especially if it’s recommended by the care instructions, is to wash it by hand in cold water (warmer water may cause wool to shrink). Use a small amount of wool-specific detergent, agitate it gently, and let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes. This will provide enough time to lift dirt and oils without overexposing the wool to water. Rinse the garment thoroughly in cold water to remove all detergent.
If you are machine washing the garment, place it in a laundry bag first to help protect it. Use a gentle machine cycle (delicate or wool, if your machine supports it), and use cold water. Avoid fabric softeners and use cold water only for the wash cycle. If the water still feels soapy after the first rinse, rinse the garment a second time. No suds should remain.
Drying and Storing Wool Garments
After washing your wool clothing, gently squeeze it out, but don’t wring it. Another option is to lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel, then roll the towel with the clothing inside and gently press to remove excess moisture.
Once excess water has been removed, lay the garment flat on a dry towel or drying rack. Shape the piece into its original dimensions, paying attention to align seams and smooth wrinkles. Let the garment dry out in a ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Don’t hang wool garments to dry or store them on hangers.
Once wool clothing is dry, fold it and store it in a drawer or on a shelf in a cool, dry place. It’s helpful to keep natural moth repellents like cedar blocks or lavender sachets nearby, or even use airtight containers.
Conclusion
When it comes to caring for and restoring wool garments, knowledge and the right approach are indispensable. By following the tips in this guide, you will not only extend the life of your wool pieces, but also maintain their natural beauty and comfort. Be patient, be gentle, store your wool garments safely, and you’ll be able to enjoy your wool pieces for years to come.
