Washing merino wool properly ensures its longevity, preserves its unique properties, and keeps it feeling soft and luxurious. While merino is often machine washable, handwashing is always the best and safest method for its care.
Pre-Treatment: Tackling Odors
Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, but if you notice any lingering smells, a simple pre-treatment can refresh your garment.
For Odor Removal:
- Presoak: Submerge your merino wool item for 30 minutes in cool water mixed with 1/4 cup of plain white vinegar.
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the item with cool water before proceeding with your chosen laundering method.
Choosing Your Washing Method
You have two primary options for washing merino wool: handwashing or machine washing.
1. Handwashing: The Safest Approach
Handwashing is the gentlest method, ideal for delicate merino items or when you want to ensure maximum care.
Steps for Handwashing:
- Fill a Basin: Fill a clean sink or basin with cool or lukewarm water (never hot).
- Add Detergent: Mix in a small amount of mild, wool-specific detergent. Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners, which can damage wool fibers.
- Submerge & Soak: Gently submerge your merino item. Let it soak for about 10 minutes. Avoid vigorous scrubbing or twisting, which can cause felting or stretching.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cool water. Gently press the water through the garment until all soap is removed. Repeat rinsing until the water runs clear.
- Remove Excess Water: Carefully lift the item and gently squeeze out excess water. Do not wring or twist. You can press it against the side of the basin or roll it in a clean towel.
For more detailed handwashing tips, consult resources like The Woolmark Company's care guide.
2. Machine Washing: Convenient & Effective
Many modern merino wool garments are designed for machine washing, offering a convenient alternative. Always check the care label on your specific item first.
Steps for Machine Washing:
- Prepare the Garment: Turn your merino item inside out to protect the outer surface. If you have any delicate items, place them in a mesh laundry bag.
- Load the Machine: Do not overload the washing machine. Give the items enough space to move freely.
- Choose Settings:
- Cycle: Select the wool cycle, delicate cycle, or gentle cycle.
- Temperature: Use cold water. Hot water can cause shrinkage and damage.
- Spin Speed: Opt for a low spin speed to minimize stress on the fibers.
- Add Detergent: Use a wool-specific or mild liquid detergent. Avoid powdered detergents, which may not dissolve completely and can leave residue.
- Start Wash: Begin the washing cycle.
For brand-specific machine wash instructions, check guides from reputable merino producers like Icebreaker's care instructions.
Drying Merino Wool
Proper drying is crucial to prevent stretching or shrinking.
- Avoid the Dryer: Never put merino wool in a tumble dryer. The high heat can cause irreversible shrinkage and damage.
- Reshape: After washing, gently reshape your garment to its original form.
- Lay Flat to Dry: Lay the item flat on a clean, dry towel or a mesh drying rack. This prevents stretching that can occur when hanging wet wool.
- Air Dry: Allow it to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Flip the garment occasionally to ensure even drying.
General Tips for Merino Wool Care
- Regular Washing is Not Always Necessary: Merino wool's natural odor resistance means you don't need to wash it after every wear. Often, simply airing it out is sufficient.
- Spot Cleaning: For small spills or marks, try spot cleaning with a damp cloth and a tiny bit of mild detergent rather than washing the entire garment.
- Storage: Store merino wool folded in a drawer or on a shelf to prevent stretching out of shape. Avoid hanging it for long periods, especially heavy items. Use cedar balls or sachets to deter moths.
Quick Washing Guide
| Feature | Handwashing | Machine Washing (Check Label!) |
|---|---|---|
| Water Temp | Cool or Lukewarm | Cold |
| Detergent | Mild, wool-specific liquid | Mild, wool-specific liquid |
| Cycle | Gentle soak, no scrubbing | Wool, Delicate, or Gentle cycle |
| Spin | Gentle squeeze, no wringing | Low spin speed |
| Pre-treatment | Presoak with vinegar for odors (if needed) | Presoak with vinegar for odors (if needed) |
| Drying | Lay flat to air dry | Lay flat to air dry (NEVER tumble dry) |
By following these guidelines, your merino wool garments will remain soft, comfortable, and last for many years.
