You can wash merino wool, but it requires special care. Machine washing is acceptable if you follow these guidelines: use a delicate cycle no higher than 30˚C, use a liquid detergent designed for wool or delicates, and place the garment in a mesh laundry bag. Dry flat or hang in an airy, shaded area.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Washing Merino Wool: A Step-by-Step Guide
Washing merino wool can seem intimidating, but with the right approach, it's quite simple. The key is to treat it gently.
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Check the Care Label: Always consult the garment's care label for specific instructions. While the advice below applies to most merino items, some may have unique requirements.
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Machine Washing (Recommended):
- Use a Delicate Cycle: Set your washing machine to the delicate or wool cycle. This will ensure gentler agitation.
- Water Temperature: Keep the water temperature at or below 30°C (86°F). Hot water can cause shrinkage.
- Use a Wool-Specific or Delicate Detergent: Ordinary detergents can strip the natural oils from merino wool. Opt for a liquid detergent formulated for wool or delicates. Good options include:
- Ecover Delicate
- Nikwax Wool Wash
- Pure Soap (ensure it's mild and residue-free)
- Mesh Laundry Bag: Placing your merino garment in a mesh laundry bag offers added protection against snagging and abrasion.
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Hand Washing (Alternative):
- Fill a Basin: Fill a clean basin or sink with cool water (30°C or below).
- Add Detergent: Add a small amount of wool-specific or delicate detergent to the water.
- Submerge and Gently Agitate: Submerge the merino garment and gently agitate it in the water. Avoid harsh scrubbing or twisting.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the garment thoroughly with cool, clean water until all detergent is removed.
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Drying:
- Avoid the Dryer: Never put merino wool in a tumble dryer. The heat will cause shrinkage and damage the fibers.
- Gently Remove Excess Water: Gently squeeze out excess water. Do not wring the garment.
- Dry Flat: Lay the garment flat on a clean towel or drying rack, away from direct sunlight and heat. This helps to maintain its shape. Alternatively, you can hang it somewhere airy and out of direct sunlight.
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Storage: Once completely dry, store your merino wool garment folded in a drawer or on a shelf. Avoid hanging it for extended periods, as this can cause stretching.
Key Considerations:
- Frequency: Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, so you don't need to wash it after every wear. Wash only when necessary.
- Pilling: Pilling can occur with merino wool, especially in areas of high friction. A fabric shaver can help remove pills.
- Moths: Store merino wool properly to prevent moth damage. Cedar balls or lavender sachets can help deter moths.
By following these guidelines, you can keep your merino wool garments clean, soft, and long-lasting.
