Looking after your wool

Looking after your wool

Whether you have a wool scarf, throw, cushion or outdoor blanket, caring for your carefully crafted creation is easier than you think. As specialists and long-time lovers of alpaca, Merino, and sheep wools, we know what it takes to keep your wool product looking and feeling great. And the truth is, it doesn’t take very much!

Unlike synthetic fibres, wool doesn’t need washing frequently. This makes it an easy to care for addition to your home or wardrobe. If your wool really does need a good wash however, you should use the following tips to ensure you’re taking the best possible care of your product.

Try spot cleaning first

Keeping on top of wool care is the trick. With a few gentle spot cleans and regular airing, your wool won’t have to undergo full washing or cleaning. Wool is after all a genius fibre.

 It’s lightweight, renewable, insulating, and breathable. It’s also naturally odour resistant and easy to care for as The Campaign for Wool – an initiative we proudly support – details:

“The protective waxy coating on wool fibres makes wool products resistant to staining and they also pick up less dust as wool is naturally anti-static. Recent innovations mean wool items are no longer hand-wash only. Many wool products can now be machine-washed and tumble dried.”

Even finer fibres (like Gotland wool) boast the same easy maintenance and durability. These are just two of the qualities that make wool the perfect choice for indoors and out.

Washing

Always check the label

Whilst all wool is washable, be sure to check the label of your wool product to ensure there are no special measures required. A selected number of products at So Cosy are dry clean only.

Wash at a room temperature

Washing at room temperature (no more than 30 degrees) is great for the planet and great for wool. A delicate or wool cycle should be selected where possible to ensure a gentle machine wash. The item should be washed separately as contact with other fabrics can cause pilling.

Handwashing is another option. Simply soak the item in tepid water for 30 minutes and rinse well. Avoid wringing out, twisting, or scrubbing the product as this could damage the fibres. Instead, press any excess water out.

Choose a gentle detergent

If you wish to use soap or detergent to freshen up your wool, make sure it is suitable for the type of wool you’re washing.

We recommend using hair shampoo or Woolite to wash alpaca wool for example. When washing in a suitable soap or detergent, use just a small amount.

You should also avoid using fabric softeners as this can encourage bobbling with some wool types, such as Merino wool. This may sound obvious, but don’t bleach the product either. Many bleaches can damage natural fibres, including Merino and alpaca wool.

Dry washing

Dry with care

Drying your wool product requires just as much of a gentle nature as washing it. Dry your wool product flat away from sunlight or direct heat. Some wool products may be suitable for tumble drying at low heat, check the label for guidance.