Wash wisely
Less is More
Wool has natural self-cleaning properties. Frequent washing can damage the fibers. Spot clean small spills with a damp cloth and mild detergent. For a refresh, hang your sweater in a steamy bathroom after a shower.
Handwashing
For a deeper clean, handwashing is recommended. Fill a basin with cool water and a wool-specific detergent. Gently swish the sweater, then rinse thoroughly with cool water. Avoid wringing or twisting the garment. Lay it flat on a towel to dry, reshaping it gently as needed.
Machine on Gentle
If the care label allows, some wool sweaters can be machine-washed on a delicate cycle with cool water and wool detergent. However, it's always best to err on the side of caution and handwash whenever possible.
Drying Delights
Skip the Heat
Never put your wool sweater in the dryer. The high heat can cause shrinkage and felting. Instead, lay the sweater flat on a drying rack or clean towel, away from direct sunlight.
Reshape with Care
As the sweater dries, gently reshape it to its original form. This helps prevent any misshapening or stretching.
Storage Smarts
Fold with Care
When storing your wool sweater, avoid hanging it on a hanger. The weight of the garment can stretch the shoulders over time. Instead, fold it neatly and store it on a shelf in a cool, dry place.
Cedar Power
Cedar blocks repel moths and other pests that love wool. Placing a cedar block amongst your stored sweaters adds an extra layer of protection.
