With summer almost at an end, and the cooler seasons on the horizon, we’re looking forward to wrapping up and snuggling in. Autumn and winter are naturally our favourite seasons – why do you think we got into this business in the first place! – with the prospect of digging out our favourite jumpers already filling us with joy.
While we’re firm believers that wool blankets are very much all-year-round accessories, the upcoming cooler months see the focus shift to the upkeep of these woolly wonders. If your wool blankets aren’t in the best shape after storage, or a few summer adventures, now is certainly the time to act.
Wool is particularly prone to shrinkage, leaving us with a little less coverage than we’re used to. Here we explore how and why wool shrinks, how you can prevent dreaded shrinkage and, more importantly, how to fix it!
Why wool shrinks
Many fibres suffer a few changes after washing and drying, or over time. Yet, while some materials are known for getting roomier after washing, the natural insulation and excellent absorption of wool causes the opposite problem. Here The Creative Folk explains more about the science behind wool shrinkage caused by washing and drying at home:
“…during normal washing, there are two things that happen: heat and friction. The heat of the water and the dryer, combined with the friction caused inside a normal cycle, causes the fibres to compress, which leads to the shrinkage that you observe after washing. This is the reason most manufacturers recommend that wool clothing be hand washed and air dried to minimise shrinkage.”
Without the right care, and with exposure to increased heat and friction, wool fabrics can shrink by as much as 50%!
What to do about it
Prevention is certainly better than cure when protecting your beloved wool blankets from shrinkage. Taking the gentler approach with handwashing or a cool machine cycle will stop shrinkage in its tracks. Washing your wool on its own is also recommended. When washing with other items, wool can become easily agitated, causing the friction that makes shrinkage a problem.
Avoid direct heat when maintaining your wool blankets. The trick is to air dry flat and well away from direct sunlight to preserve its size and shape.
Reversing wool shrinkage
If the damage has already been done, don’t despair! There are several strategies you can use to restore your favourite wool blanket back to its former, full-size glory.
Blocking is a method called on by the most experienced knitting enthusiasts to ensure the final shape of their knitted creations sets. It also works wonders on shrunken wool. It is however pretty complex and requires specialist equipment. Reversing wool shrinkage however could be as simple as raiding your kitchen cupboards or bathroom cabinets.
Known for softening the scratchiest wool, vinegar can also be used to turn the tide on shrinkage. Add two tablespoons of distilled white vinegar to a basin of cool water, and leave your wool blanket to soak in the solution for 20 minutes. The water should then be pressed (not wringed) out and the blanket left to air dry flat.
Epsom salts, baby shampoo, hair conditioner and specialist wool care products will also do the trick when reversing wool shrinkage.
Whether using hair conditioner, vinegar or another recommended shrinkage solution, giving it a good tug after treatment and while wet can be a simple way to restore its shape. Go gently however to ensure that your well-timed reshape doesn’t damage fibres further.
Whether you are in the market for a new wool blanket (that isn’t quite as shrunken) or you’re keen to expand your collection of all-natural homewares, you’re in the right place! Browse our full range of woolly wonders to discover your next favourites.