How Do You Wash a Wool Fleece Sweater?

Washing a wool fleece sweater requires a gentle approach to prevent shrinking or damage. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Preparing the Sweater

Check the Care Label: Always begin by checking the care label on your sweater for specific washing instructions. Some sweaters may require dry cleaning.
Bagging (Optional but Recommended): Place the sweater in a mesh laundry bag to protect it during washing. This is especially important for delicate or loosely knit sweaters. [Source: Multiple sources confirm the use of mesh bags for washing wool items.]

Water Temperature: Use lukewarm or cool water. Hot water can cause felting (shrinking and matting of the wool fibers). [Source: Spin Off magazine recommends 140-150°F for raw fleece, but this is generally too hot for finished garments. Other sources recommend cold or lukewarm water for finished sweaters.]
Detergent: Choose a mild, wool-specific detergent or a gentle baby shampoo. Avoid harsh detergents containing enzymes or bleach, which can damage the wool fibers.
Washing: Submerge the sweater in the water and gently swirl it around. Avoid harsh scrubbing or wringing, which can distort the fabric. Let it soak for a few minutes. [Source: Some sources suggest a pre-soak in cold water for heavily soiled items.]
Rinsing: Rinse the sweater thoroughly in cool water until all traces of soap are gone. Again, avoid harsh squeezing or wringing.

Gentle Removal: Carefully lift the sweater from the water, avoiding twisting or stretching.
Excess Water Removal: Gently press the sweater between two towels to absorb excess water. Do not wring or twist.
Air Drying: Lay the sweater flat on a clean, dry towel and reshape it to its original form. Allow it to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat. Avoid using a machine dryer, which can cause shrinking and damage. [Source: All sources agree on air drying as the preferred method.]

For heavily soiled sweaters: A pre-soak in cool water for 20 minutes may be beneficial. [Source: Windridge Fiber Farm recommends a pre-soak for fine wool and dirty fleeces.]
For raw fleece: The process differs significantly and often involves hotter water and multiple washes. Consult resources specifically addressing raw fleece washing if necessary. [Source: Several sources detail methods for washing raw fleece, which are not suitable for finished garments.]