Caring for snuggly woollens

Understanding wool

First things first, wool is pretty amazing. It's a natural fibre that's incredibly resilient, elastic, and even a bit water-resistant (thanks to the natural oils in the fibres). But it's alsodelicate when it comes to heat and agitation.

Washing wool

The golden rule? Wash less frequently. Woollens don’t need a bath after every wear, saving you time and keeping them in shape longer. Lots of times, simply airing out your woollen items is enough.

When it is time for a wash

• Check the label: Always start here. Manufacturers know their product best.

• Hand wash if possible: If the label agrees, go for a gentle hand wash in lukewarm water, using a wool-specific detergent. Submerge your woollen garment and gently swish it around.

• Avoid twisting or wringing: Woollens are quite forgiving, but they don’t enjoy a wrestling match!

Machine washing

If you must, use the wool cycle, cold water, and a wool detergent. And again, no wringing! A mesh laundry bag can be a wool’s best friend in the machine, protecting it from getting stretched or pulled.

Drying wool

Your tumble dryer is not a friend to wool!

Roll in a towel

Lay your item flat on a towel, roll the two up together, and gently press to remove excess water.

Lay flat to dry

Wool can stretch out of shape easily when wet, so laying it flat to dry, reshaping, if necessary, is your best bet. Special garment drying mesh screens are also available, which are designed to fit over the bathtub.

Dry away from direct heat or sunlight; patience is key here – make sure they are properly dry before storing them.

Storing

• Clean first: Always store wool clean to avoid attracting pests.

• Fold don’t hang: Hanging woollens can lead to stretching and misshapen garments. Fold them neatly and store them in a drawer or on a shelf.

• Moth menace: Protect your woollens from moths with natural repellents like cedar blocks or lavender sachets. Moths aren’t fans of these scents, and your wardrobe will smell great too!

Pilling: This is when small balls of fibre start forming on the surface of woollen clothing. It’s normal but can be managed: Use a comb or a specially designed fabric shaver to gently remove pills. Avoid pulling or cutting as this can damage the fabric.

Dry Cleaning

If your jumper is labelled as dry clean only, take it to a professional cleaner. Don’t be tempted to shove it into the washing machine or it could come out the size for a 5-year-old!

​​​​Remember, wool is pretty tough and forgiving if you treat it right. Most of the time, less is more when it comes to washing, and a little attention to how you dry and store your woollen items can make a huge difference. With these simple care tips, your woollen clothing can continue to be that hug you can wear for seasons to come. So, treat your wool with a little love, and it will love you back many times over.