Do you really know how to wash your woollen jumpers?
It’s time to break out our winter wardrobe, and that includes some of our favourite knitwear! Woollen jumpers, cardigans and scarves are abundant at this time of year. And while we love the softness, warmth and comfort that these items bring, there’s always one element of care that daunts us.
No one looks forward to washing their woollens, particularly if it’s an expensive item. One wrong move and the item could shrink, rip or degrade, leaving it irreparable. The good news is washing wool needn’t be such a challenge. As long as you follow the expert advice below, you can wash your woollens with peace of mind.
1. Consider if it needs washing
The first step is only washing your wool as often as necessary. According to Julia Dee, founder of Total Wardrobe Care: "Wool has antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of odour-causing bacteria. Unless you have a spillage or stain, then keep washing to a minimum."
Washing your wool, whether by hand or in the machine (especially the latter), will ultimately wear the item. The abrasive action and the detergent will take its toll on the fibres, so you’ll only want to wash it when it's really needed.
Always wear a layer of clothing under your woollens to prevent direct contact with the skin, especially where bacteria is prominent, such as under the arms. In doing this, it will stay cleaner for longer.
Leave the item to air between wears as well. Julia continues "Allow your knitwear to air for a couple of days between wears. You can refresh your item with a linen spray."
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2. Check the care label
The next step is to look at the care label. The care label will show whether the item can be washed in the washing machine or by hand. Some may say dry-clean only.
If it shows a basket with a number in it, with two lines beneath, that indicates that you can wash it in the washing machine on the wool setting. If it’s a symbol of hands over a basket, that means hand wash only.
Dry cleaning sometimes isn’t appropriate because the combination of high temperatures and chemicals can do more harm than good. Look out for a circle with an x over it; that means do not dry clean. On the other hand, a circle with a letter in it indicates the type of solvent and process which must be used for dry cleaning.
3. Use a detergent for delicates
The next step is to make sure you’re using the best type of detergent for wool. Biological detergents are brilliant for breaking down the amino acids in protein-based stains because they contain enzymes, but those same enzymes can damage natural fibres, such as wool. That means you’re doing more harm than good by using biological detergent here.
Instead, use a detergent designed for delicates, such as Ecover Delicate Detergent Wool and Silk Laundry. These types of detergent will be effective for stain removal without damaging the fibres because they don’t contain enzymes, bleaching agents or brighteners.
Avoid using fabric softeners on your woollens too. Julia says: "It is always best to hand wash wool with a good quality and gentle laundry liquid. It is not advisable to use fabric softener as it leaves a residue on the wool."
If you’re dealing with stubborn stains, a product such as Vanish Oxi Action Gel is safe to use on wool and can be used to pre-treat, or dose in the washing machine.
4. Hand washing rules
If your wool garment is hand wash only, start by filling a basin with warm water. Add your delicates detergent, following the dosage instructions on pack, and mix it in to create a soapy solution.
When washing, do not rub, twist or wring the wool, as it can felt. Instead, gently work in the solution by hand, pressing it instead of squeezing it in. 2-3 minutes of this is enough for light soiling, while 5 minutes may be needed if it’s dirtier.
Once you’re finished, rinse the wool through with lukewarm water, pressing it gently until all excess soap is removed.
5. Machine washing rules
If you’re washing your wool in the washing machine, there’s a few rules to follow. Start by turning the item inside out if you can; this will avoid potential pilling. Zip up your zips, to stop the teeth from catching, but leave buttons unbuttons so you don’t strain the thread. It’s also a good idea to use a mesh laundry bag if you can for an added layer of protection.
Stick to the delicates or wool cycle; it should be a short, low temperature and low spin setting. Keep in mind it is best to hand wash your woollens where you can. They will last longer if you take the time to do this.
6. Dry flat
Once you’ve finished washing the item, either by hand or in the washing machine, pull it gently to the correct shape while still damp before drying – be careful not to stretch it though!
For items that are still saturated, such as after hand washing, place between two white towels (make sure they’re white so there’s no colour transference), and press to absorb the excess moisture.
Never tumble dry your woollens. Dry flat instead to prevent it from weighing itself down and stretching. The top of a winged clothes dryer would be ideal because it’s supported but air can circulate all the way around. You could also lie it flat to dry on a clean towel.
Make sure the space is ventilated and it’s not near a heat source, such as a radiator or sunlight. Keep an eye on the progress as it dries, rotating it every so often to help. A heated clothes airer may or may not be suitable depending on the temperature it reaches; refer to the manual for guidance.
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7. Storage advice
Once your wool is dry, lightly steam it with a clothes steamer or iron on the lowest temperature setting (or wool setting) on your steam item, if the care label allows. In terms of storage, It’s best to fold your woollens rather than hang them up to prevent stretching. Avoiding storing your wool in the damp or in direct sunlight.
For long-term storage, Julia says "Always make sure your wool is clean and dry before you store it away. It is best to store your items in a breathable, fully moth proof bag." An example of this would be this Knitwear and T-shirt Storage Bag.
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