You can care for wool by washing it carefully, ideally by hand or on a delicate cycle in your washing machine, using a wool-specific detergent.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of wool care:
Washing Wool
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Hand Washing: This is the gentlest method.
- Use cold water (around 30°C or 86°F).
- Use a delicate detergent specifically designed for wool. These detergents are often pH-neutral and don't contain enzymes that can damage wool fibers.
- Gently agitate the garment in the water, avoiding harsh scrubbing or twisting.
- Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
- Gently squeeze out excess water. Do NOT wring!
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Machine Washing: Some wool garments are machine washable, but always check the care label!
- Use the "hand wash" or "wool" cycle on your washing machine.
- Ensure the water temperature is cold (around 30°C or 86°F).
- Use a wool-specific detergent.
- Place the garment in a mesh laundry bag for added protection.
Drying Wool
- Avoid the dryer! Heat can cause wool to shrink and felt.
- Lay flat to dry. This prevents the garment from stretching out of shape. You can roll the garment in a towel to gently remove excess water before laying it flat.
- Avoid direct sunlight or heat. These can damage the fibers.
Other Important Tips
- Store wool garments folded. Hanging can stretch them out of shape.
- Use moth protection. Moths are attracted to wool, so store your wool garments with mothballs, cedar chips, or lavender sachets.
- Pilling: Pilling is a natural occurrence with wool. Use a fabric shaver to gently remove pills.
- Ironing: If needed, iron wool garments on a low setting with a pressing cloth between the iron and the garment.
By following these care instructions, you can keep your wool garments looking their best for years to come.