Wool care is often misunderstood and has a reputation for being a hassle. However, caring for wool garments is actually quite simple. Wool has inherent qualities that make it easy to care for, and it requires much less attention than other fabrics. In this section, we will guide you through the process of caring for your wool garments, so there's nothing to fear.
Firstly, it's important to let your wool garments rest between wears for at least 24 hours. This allows the natural resilience and spring in the wool fiber to recover and return to its original shape. When storing your woollen knitwear, fold it flat and avoid folding it directly after wear. Instead, hang it over the back of a chair to breathe before folding and putting it away. Make sure not to store them too tightly as this may cause wrinkles. Avoid hanging wool knits on hangers as it may stretch the garment.
Washing your wool garments as little as possible is recommended. Wool has natural anti-bacterial and odor-resistant properties that make washing largely redundant. Simply hang your wool garments out to air or give them a gentle steam. Between wears, you can clean your woollen garments using a soft garment brush to remove dust and dirt that may dull the appearance of wool fabrics and become stains later on.
When you do have to wash your wool garment, follow the instructions on the care label. Hand washing in cold water (30°C) with a delicate detergent appropriate for wool is best. Some woollen garments are machine washable on hand wash program (30°C) or the dedicated wool program (make sure to follow the care label for the correct care instructions on your garment). Spot treat stains straight away with the recommended solution for the specific stain and let it air dry.
After washing, it's important to dry your wool garments flat on a towel to ensure that they keep their shape. Hanging them to dry may cause stretching, and tumble drying will cause severe shrinkage and dry out the fibers. Once you've placed the garment on the towel, make sure to stretch out your garment to its original shape, especially the ribs and the length that may have contracted during wash. Avoid moth infestations by ensuring your wool garments are clean and dry before packing them away. Invest in moth balls or cedar wood to place in your drawers or closet to keep moths away.
Finally, pilling is a natural occurrence for wool products. You can easily remove pills with a pilling comb or swipe a fabric shaver carefully over the fabric. Avoid using a dust roller for wool garments and instead use a clothing brush to get rid of dust and dirt. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your wool garments last for years to come.