How To Wash Wool – Tips & Tricks

Wool is a soft, natural fabric that adds warmth and elegance to your wardrobe, but it requires special care to maintain its beauty. Wondering how to wash wool safely without causing shrinkage or damage?

Cleaning wool is straightforward. Wool possesses natural resistance to stains, odors, and wrinkles, which means it demands less frequent washing. This makes wool care simple and environmentally friendly. When it comes to washing wool garments, you can choose to use a washing machine or opt for hand washing, both of which are simple processes.

In this article, we will tackle all practical solutions to wash wool at home without worrying about your favorite cashmere sweater getting ruined.

• How To Wash Wool In A Washing Machine
• How To Hand Wash Wool Clothes
  – Merino Wool
  – Cashmere Wool
• Tangie Laundry Bar Solution To Washing Wool At Home

How To Wash Wool In A Washing Machine

Can I wash wool in a washing machine? The answer is yes! Washing wool is a straightforward process, and many wool garments are specifically designed to be machine-washed. This convenient option saves you precious time, allowing you to focus on the activities you truly enjoy without the stress of hand-washing delicate items.

Check the Care Label

Always start by checking the care label on your wool garment. This label provides essential instructions for washing, drying, and ironing to ensure the fabric remains in excellent condition. Follow the recommended guidelines to avoid shrinkage, damage, or loss of softness.

Washing Instructions

• Use the Wool Setting: Select the wool cycle on your washing machine. This usually involves gentle action at around 40°C (104°F).
• No Wool Cycle? If your machine doesn’t have a wool setting, opt for a cold water wash or a delicate cycle instead.

Choose the Right Detergent

Choose cold or lukewarm water for washing, as hot water can damage the fibers. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can weaken the wool and affect its texture.

Drying Your Wool Garments

• After washing, it’s best to flat-dry your wool items.
• Avoid hanging them up or using a dryer, as this can lead to stretching and misshaping.

After the washing cycle is complete, it’s advisable to dry your wool garments flat rather than hanging them up or using a dryer. Flat drying helps maintain the shape and prevents stretching, which can occur if wool is hung while wet. By taking these steps, you’ll ensure that your wool clothing remains in excellent condition for many wears to come.

How To Hand Wash Wool Clothes

Hand washing wool is quick and easy, making it a great option for caring for your delicate wool garments. Hand washing wool clothes is a gentle and effective method to clean these delicate fabrics while preserving their shape and texture.

Unlike machine washing, which can subject wool to harsh agitation and rapid temperature changes, hand washing allows for more control over the cleaning process. This is particularly important because wool fibers can be sensitive and prone to shrinkage or felting if not treated carefully.

What You’ll Need:

• Mild detergent (preferably one designed for wool or delicates)
• A clean sink, basin, or tub
• Cold or lukewarm water (not hot)
• A towel

Steps to Hand Wash Wool Clothes:

Fill the Basin with Water
Fill a clean basin or sink with cold or lukewarm water (no hotter than 30°C / 86°F).

Add Wool Detergent or Tangie Laundry Bar Concentrate
Add a small amount of wool-safe detergent. Swirl the water gently to mix.

Submerge the Wool Garment
Place the wool item in the water. Gently press it down so it’s fully submerged.

Gently Agitate (Don’t Rub or Wring)
Swirl the garment gently for 5–10 minutes. Avoid scrubbing, wringing, or twisting—this can stretch or damage the fibers.

Rinse with Cold Water
Drain the soapy water and refill with clean, cold water. Gently press the garment to release the soap. Repeat until all the soap is gone.

Remove Excess Water
Carefully lift the garment out of the water. Lay it flat on a clean towel, roll it up, and press gently to remove excess water.

Dry Flat
Lay the garment flat on a dry towel or a mesh drying rack, reshaping it to its original form. Let it air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Pro Tip: Hanging wool clothes to dry is not advisable, as doing so can lead to the fabric stretching out.

Wool fibers are delicate and can lose their shape when subjected to the weight of the wet fabric hanging down. Instead, it is recommended to lay wool garments flat on a clean, dry towel to maintain their form and prevent any distortion.

This method allows the clothes to dry naturally without the risk of sagging or stretching. Additionally, ensuring that the wool is properly cared for during drying can prolong its lifespan and keep it looking its best.

How To Clean Merino Wool

Unlike other materials, wool is resistant to odors, which means your wool will retain its freshness longer than those made from other fabrics, allowing you to wear it multiple times without drawing attention from others.

Cleaning Merino wool is simple and effective, ensuring your garments stay soft and last longer. Here’s a friendly guide to help you care for your Merino wool items:

Check the Care Label

Always start by reading the care label on your garment. Different brands may have specific instructions. Follow the recommended washing temperature, drying method, and ironing guidelines to maintain the fabric’s quality.

If the label suggests handwashing, use mild detergent and lukewarm water to gently clean the garment. For machine-washable items, separate colors to prevent bleeding and use a gentle cycle. Avoid overloading the machine to ensure thorough cleaning and minimize wear on the fabric.

Hand Washing

• Fill a Wash Basin or a bucket: Use lukewarm water (about 30°C or 86°F) and add a mild detergent specifically for wool.
• Soak: Submerge your Merino wool item and let it soak for about 5-10 minutes. Avoid agitating or scrubbing, as this can cause felting.
• Rinse: Gently rinse with cool water until all detergent is removed.

Machine Washing

• If the care label allows, use a gentle cycle on your washing machine.
• Use a Mesh Bag: Place your garment in a mesh laundry bag to protect it.
• Cold Water and Wool Detergent: Always use cold water and a detergent designed for wool.

Drying

• Avoid the Dryer: Never tumble dry Merino wool. Instead, lay it flat on a clean towel to dry, reshaping it to its original form.
• Air Dry: Allow it to air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Storing

Avoid storing Merino wool near direct sunlight or moisture, as this can cause damage. Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter moths and keep your items fresh.

How To Clean Cashmere Wool

Cleaning cashmere wool requires extra care, as it’s a delicate and luxurious fiber. Cashmere is known for its softness, warmth, and lightweight feel, making it a highly sought-after material for sweaters, scarves, and other garments. However, due to its fine texture, cashmere is more susceptible to damage compared to other wool fibers.

When cleaning cashmere, it’s crucial to avoid using harsh detergents or rough washing methods that could compromise the fibers. Hand washing is often recommended, using lukewarm water and a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. It’s important to avoid wringing or twisting the cashmere to prevent it from losing its shape. Instead, gently press out excess water and lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel to dry naturally.

What You’ll Need:

• Mild detergent (specifically for wool or cashmere)
• Clean basin, sink, or tub
• Cold or lukewarm water (no hotter than 30°C / 86°F)
• Towel (preferably white or light-colored)
• Flat drying surface or mesh drying rack

Check the Label
Always read the care label. Some cashmere items may be dry clean only.

Prepare the Wash Basin
Fill your basin or sink with cold or lukewarm water.
Add a small amount of cashmere-friendly detergent and stir gently.

Submerge the Cashmere Garment
Place your garment in the water and gently press it down to soak. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing.

Soak and Gently Agitate
Let it soak for about 5–10 minutes. Swirl it around gently. Do not wring or stretch the fabric.

Rinse Thoroughly
Drain the soapy water and refill with clean, cold water. Swish the garment to remove detergent. Repeat if needed until the water runs clear.

Remove Excess Water
Lift the item out gently and lay it flat on a towel. Roll the towel with the garment inside and press lightly to absorb water. Do not twist or wring.

Dry Flat
Unroll and lay the garment flat on a dry towel or a mesh drying rack. Reshape it to its original form. Let it air dry away from direct sunlight or heat

Tangie Laundry Bar Solution To Wash Wool At Home

Tangie Laundry Concentrate’s gentle, low-suds formula is the perfect solution. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you care for your wool garments effectively. 

What You’ll Need 

• Tangie Laundry Soap Bar (diluted into liquid form) 

• A sink, basin, or tub 

• Cool or lukewarm water (never hot) 

• A clean, dry towel for reshaping 

How to Wash Wool Safely: With The Tangie Laundry Soap

Prepare the Solution 

Start by mixing 1 tablespoon of Tangie Laundry Concentrate (in diluted liquid form) into 1 gallon of cool or lukewarm water in a sink or basin. Avoid using hot water, as it can shrink or distort the shape of wool. 

Submerge the Wool 

Place your wool garment gently into the water, pressing it lightly to ensure it’s fully submerged. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes to loosen dirt and grime. Avoid scrubbing or wringing the fabric to protect the delicate fibers. 

Gently Agitate 

Swish the garment lightly in the water. For areas with stains, gently rub the wool against itself. Tangie’s low-suds formula ensures effective cleaning without leaving residue, making it perfect for wool care. 

Rinse Thoroughly 

Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cool water. Rinse the wool by swishing it gently, removing all traces of soap. Repeat as needed until the water runs clear. 

Remove Excess Water 

Carefully lift the garment, supporting its weight to avoid stretching. Lay it flat on a clean towel, roll the towel up, and press gently to remove excess water. Never twist or wring wool garments. 

Reshape and Dry 

Lay the wool flat on a drying rack or towel. Reshape it to its original size and allow it to air dry in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. 

Why Tangie Laundry Concentrate is Ideal for Wool 

Tangie Laundry Concentrate’s plant-based, low-suds formula is specifically designed for gentle cleaning. Free of harsh chemicals, it’s tough on dirt but kind to delicate fabrics like wool. 

Tangie’s Pro Tips for Wool Care 

• Skip Fabric Softeners: Wool is naturally soft and doesn’t need artificial softeners. 

• Wash Sparingly: Overwashing wool can damage its fibers. Spot clean when possible. 

• Steam for Softness: Use a steamer or iron on low heat to restore softness and remove wrinkles after drying. 

Caring for wool has never been easier! By following these steps and using Tangie Laundry Bar Soap, you can keep your wool garments clean, fresh, and long-lasting.