Caring for your Wool!
I know! Now, either you learnt from someone, you managed to read some instructions or too many times you've thrown it in the wash by accident and had a fatal shrinking? and the holes!
Well I'm here to make it simple, not scary!
Wool is such a durable, natural, and sustainable fibre that, with proper care, can last for years. Exactly why I want us to stop buying acrylic and invest in Wool! So heres how to maintain your wool garments and ensure they remain in top condition. So they feel their best and you feel your best!
Washing Wool:
the big debate - Machine or Hand Wash
Wool is naturally resistant to stains, odors, and wrinkles, meaning it doesn’t require frequent washing. "If in doubt - leave it out" but when the time has come, check your garment’s care label:
All our wool items are Handwash, this is because they are made from fine fibres such as Cashmere, ensuring it's super soft touch requires delicate care.
Ideal for delicate wools: Cashmere, Lambswool, Merino
Hand Wash: Use lukewarm water (around 30°C) with a wool detergent. Turn the garment inside out, soak for 10 minutes, rinse in lukewarm water, and finish with a cold rinse. Do not rub or agitate. Gently press out excess water without wringing.
Hardier Wools will have been tested and state on the Label
Machine Wash: Use a wool-specific cycle (usually a gentle action at 40°C) or a delicate cycle with cold water. Opt for a mild detergent designed for wool and place in a mesh bag where possible. Avoid overloading the machine.
Drying Wool
After washing, reshape the garment and lay it flat to dry. Avoid hanging wool when wet, as this can distort its shape. Keep it out of direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent shrinking or damage.
Storing Wool
• For woven garments, hang them on padded hangers to maintain their shape.
• Knits should be folded and stored in drawers.
• Before long-term storage, ensure wool items are clean to deter moths. Store them in airtight containers with a moth repellent (placed away from the fabric).
Refreshing Wool
To remove wrinkles, hang the garment in a steamy bathroom, or use a steam iron set to the wool setting. For lightweight wool fabrics, use a damp cloth when ironing.
Maintaining Appearance
• Brushing: For woven wool, use a soft garment brush to remove surface dirt and prevent stains.
• Resting: Allow wool garments to “rest” for 24 hours between wears, giving fibres time to recover their shape.
• Pilling: Remove small balls of fabric with a wool comb or fabric shaver.
Avoid those pesky holes!
1 - Heat Gently: Start with a steam iron on wool setting. This step activates the Lavae and eggs to make freezing process more effective.
2 - Seal and Freeze: Once cool store in a airtight bag to avoid moisture absorption and put them in the freezer (below 18c) for at least 72hrs.
3 - Thaw and Repeat: After freezing thaw out at room temperature whilst in the bag and repeat the process to ensure all stages of the moth life cycle are eliminated.
4 - Store properly: This is important to prevent future infestations, once treated, store the wool in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags. Keep the storage area cool, clean, and dry, as moths thrive in warm, humid conditions.
Tip: use of moth deterrents like cedar or lavender, regular inspections and repeating this process, will help keep your wool garments safe.
Happy Wool Wearing for years to come.