Irrespective of which method you use to wash wool clothes, it is recommended that garments are turned inside out before washing wool. This will prolong the item’s ‘as new’ look and feel.
To avoid colour “bleeding”, separate dark and pale colours before laundering. Also keep dark and light colours separate when they are wet. Some other simple general care instructions should be followed when washing wool garments.
Caring for Wool
Before storing or washing, empty pockets and remove belts, jewellery and other accessories to avoid sagging and bulging. Store with closures zipped or buttoned.
Brushing For woven garments only: Using a soft garment brush, brush garments lengthwise after wearing to remove surface soil that might become stains later on. Dust and dirt can dull the appearance of wool fabrics.
Airing To remove cigarette or food odours, lay wool garments flat on a bed or towel for an hour. Woven garments may be hung in fresh air on a suitable hanger.
Hang wovens, fold knits Woven wool garments should be hung on shaped or padded coat hangers. Knitted garments should be gently folded and stored in drawers.
The Wake Up and Care for Wool Show with Frances
How to hand and machine wash wool
Resting Rest wool garments for 24 hours before wearing again. This gives the natural resilience and spring in the wool fibre time to recover and return to its original shape.
Refreshing Wool garments can be refreshed after unpacking or wearing by hanging them in a steamy bathroom. Moisture from the steam will remove wrinkles.
Dry away from direct sunlight or heat If wool gets wet, dry the garment at room temperature away from direct sunlight or heat.
Ironing Many wool garments do not require ironing, but very smooth fabrics may look better if pressed. Always use steam when pressing wool. Set your iron on the wool setting and avoid ironing the fabric when it is totally dry.
Lightweight-fabric care Lighter wool fabrics may take a little longer to shed their creases. Remove wrinkles by ironing with a damp cloth or steam iron on a warm iron/dot 2 setting.
Long-term storage Since food stains and body oils attract moths, you should ensure your wool garment is clean before packing it away in airtight bags or containers. Ideally use a Woolmark-endorsed moth repellent but do not place directly on the garment.
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Wool care
Cleaning wool shoes
Washing your wool shoes has never been easier. Follow this simple guide to wash your wool shoes to keep them looking and smelling clean.
Wool care
How to wash and dry wool blankets
To make sure your wool blankets last a lifetime, follow these steps when airing, washing, drying and storing your wool blankets.
Wool care
Washing Merino wool socks
Unlike other fibres, wool resists odour, meaning you don't need to wash wool socks as often as other socks. But in case you do, be sure to follow these helpful tips.
Wool care
Washing wool pants
Your go-to guide for washing wool pants and prolonging their lifespan.
Wool care
Tumble drying wool
Can wool clothes go in the tumble dryer? Always check your wool garment’s care claim before putting in the dryer. If in doubt, flat-dry your woollens.
Wool care
How do I dry wool?
After washing your wool clothes, it is recommended the garments are carefully dried flat, unless your garment’s care claim states it can be tumble dried.
Wool care
How to wash wool
Can you wash wool in the washing machine? Yes, it is possible, but how do you do it? Learn more about washing wool here.
Wool care
How to iron wool
Can you iron wool? Yes, but you want to make sure you are following Woolmark's recommended steps so you don't ruin your beautiful wool clothes.
Wool care
How to wash a wool sweater
Washing & drying wool sweaters and jumpers has never been easier. Use our simple guide to take the stress out of washing your wool.
Wool care
Best detergent to use when washing wool
What is the best wool wash detergent to use when washing your wool clothes? Follow the Woolmark guide to the best wool detergents to use to care for your wool clothes so that they last a lifetime.
Wool care
Can you dry clean Merino wool?
If the care claims on your Merino wool garment states the item can be dry cleaned, it is safe to take it to a professional dry cleaner.
Wool care
What is pilling?
What is pilling? These fuzzy balls on the surface of clothing often result in an unsightly or worn out appearance. Learn more about where they come from.
Wool care
How to store wool clothes
Dividing and storing your clothes into seasonal wardrobes & following these tips will not only save space, but also help preserve the lifespan of your garments.
Wool care
Washing instruction symbols explained
Ever wonder what those washing tag symbols and instructions actually mean? Woolmark.com has created a video and guide so you can wash and dry your clothes safely.
