How to Wash Wool

June 7, 2024

Wool is a fantastic fabric—warm, durable, and perfect for sustainable fashion. However, it can be a bit tricky to clean. If you're wondering how to wash wool, you've come to the right place.

In this article, we'll go over a step-by-step process on how to wash your woolens properly. As laundry care experts, we take pride in putting together these comprehensive guides for you on how to wash delicate items.

If you've got other delicate fabrics, such as cashmere and linen, why not check out our articles "how to wash cashmere" and "how to wash linen". If you're ready to learn the ins and outs of washing wool, keep on reading!

What this article covers:

How to Wash Wool in a Washing Machine
How to Hand Wash Wool Clothes
How Often Should You Wash Wool?

How to Wash Wool in a Washing Machine

Washing wool in a machine can be convenient if done correctly. Based on our observations, using the right settings and products makes all the difference.

Whether you're machine washing or hand washing your wool garments, we recommend our laundry detergent sheets to give your woolens the most powerful wash and thorough clean.

Our sheets are eco-friendly, made from plant-derived materials, and with their neutral pH level of 7, make them hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.

Our enzyme content ensures a thorough clean, so you never have to worry about your clothes remaining dirty after a wash.

Use A Delicate Wash Cycle

First, always select the delicate wash cycle. This setting is gentle enough to prevent damage to the wool fibers while still cleaning effectively.

From our experience, this cycle helps maintain the shape and texture of your wool garments. The delicate wash cycle uses lower agitation and spin speeds, which reduces the risk of stretching and felting.

It's essential to use cold water to avoid shrinking and to preserve the natural qualities of wool.

Use A Neutral Detergent

A neutral detergent is crucial. Regular detergents can be too harsh, leading to felting and shrinkage. We recommend using our laundry detergent sheets, as they're delicate enough for wool.

After putting it to the test, we found that these detergent sheets clean thoroughly without causing harm. Our detergent sheets are pH-neutral, which means they are gentle on wool fibers and help maintain the integrity and softness of your garments.

Additionally, our sheets are suitable for other items and are instrumental in knowing how to wash trainers and how to wash a duvet. Using the right detergent ensures your wool items stay in great condition wash after wash.

Turn Your Wool Item Inside Out Or Use A Laundry Bag

Turning your wool items inside out or placing them in a laundry bag provides an extra layer of protection. This step minimizes friction, reducing pilling and wear.

By turning your garments inside out, you protect the outer fibers from direct contact with other items and the washing machine drum, which can cause abrasion and damage.

Using a laundry bag offers additional cushioning, further preventing any harsh movements from affecting the delicate wool fibers.

This approach is effective for various wool items and ensures they remain in excellent condition wash after wash.

How to Hand Wash Wool Clothes

If you prefer to hand wash your wool clothing, here's how to do it effectively.

Fill The Tub With Cold Water

Start by filling a tub or sink with cold water. Cold water is crucial for washing wool because hot water can cause the fibers to shrink and lose their shape.

By using cold water, you help maintain the fabric's integrity and prevent damage. Ensure that the water is thoroughly cold before submerging your wool item.

This step is fundamental to preserving the quality of your wool garments. Using cold water not only protects the wool but also ensures that it retains its softness and durability.

Add Your Wool Clothing And Gently Wash It

Submerge your wool items and gently agitate them in the water. Use a small amount of wool detergent, ensuring it is specifically designed for delicate fabrics.

Avoid scrubbing or wringing the fabric, as this can cause damage and distortion.

Gentle movements are key to preventing any harm and keeping the wool looking fresh and new. This method is highly effective in maintaining the quality of wool garments.

Roll Into A Ball And Squeeze The Excess Water Out

After washing, roll your wool garment into a ball and gently squeeze out the excess water. This technique helps remove water without causing damage to the delicate fibers.

Avoid twisting or wringing, as this can distort the fabric and compromise its shape.

Once the excess water is removed, lay the item flat on a towel and reshape it as needed. This ensures that the garment retains its original form while drying.

How Often Should You Wash Wool?

Wool doesn't need frequent washing. Due to its natural odor-resistant properties, you can wear wool garments multiple times before they need a wash.

From our research, washing wool every few wears is sufficient to keep it fresh and clean. In fact, many wool items, such as sweaters and blankets, can be washed just once or twice a year, depending on use.

Spot cleaning is an excellent alternative for minor stains and can help extend the time between full washes. This approach not only preserves the integrity of the wool but also saves time and resources.

Conclusion

Washing wool can be straightforward when you follow these expert tips. At Dip, we're dedicated to providing you with sustainable and effective laundry care solutions.

By using the right methods and products, you can keep your wool garments in excellent condition for years to come.

For more information on washing different items, check out these articles:

Back to blog