Yes, you can put wool garments on a spin cycle in your washing machine, but it's crucial to do so under specific, gentle conditions to protect the delicate fibres.
While wool can handle some mechanical action, harsh treatment like high-speed or long spin cycles can cause damage, leading to shrinking, stretching, or felting. The key is to remove excess water gently.
Spin Cycle Guidelines for Wool
Based on expert recommendations, here's how to safely spin wool:
- Duration: Keep the spin cycle as short as possible. This minimizes the time the fibres are subjected to mechanical stress while still effectively removing a significant amount of water.
- Speed: The machine speed should be no more than 600 rotations per minute (RPM). A lower speed is less aggressive on the wool fibres, reducing the risk of damage.
Why These Conditions Matter
Wool fibres are prone to shrinking and contracting when agitated too much, especially at high temperatures (wool should never be washed above 30°C as per the reference). A short, low-speed spin helps extract water without causing the fibres to rub together excessively or distort their shape.
Here's a quick look at the recommended settings:
| Setting | Recommendation | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Spin Time | As short as possible | Minimizes mechanical stress |
| Spin Speed | Max 600 RPM | Gentle on fibres, prevents damage |
| Wash Temp | Never above 30°C | Prevents shrinking and contraction |
Practical Tips for Spinning Wool
- Always check the garment's care label first.
- If your machine has a "Wool" or "Hand Wash" cycle, these often include a suitable low-speed, short spin automatically.
- Place wool items in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection during the spin cycle.
- If you're hesitant to machine spin, you can gently squeeze out excess water by hand or roll the garment in a clean towel before laying it flat to dry.
Following these guidelines helps ensure your favorite wool garments remain in excellent condition wash after wash.
