Product Care: How to Wash Wool
How to Wash Wool: The Ultimate Care Guide for Long-Lasting Softness
Wool is a wonder fibre—soft, breathable, resilient, and, if well cared for, capable of lasting a lifetime. At The Wool Company, we know how important it is to care for your wool properly, which is why we’ve put together this expert washing and care guide. Follow these carefully tested steps to keep your wool garments, blankets, and throws in perfect condition. And always follow the care label guidance.
Before Washing: Caring for Your Wool Items
On Receiving Your Wool Product
Your new item has been folded carefully and may have been packed for some time. Wool does not readily hold onto its creases but will thank you for releasing it from confinement sooner rather than later.
What to Do Immediately:
- Unpack promptly: If your item arrives in a polythene bag, remove it without delay. Wool is breathable; leaving it trapped may cause condensation, leading to damp patches.
- Shake out loose fibres: New wool products may shed initially. A gentle shake (without stretching the fabric) will help.
- Allow creases to drop out: Wool naturally sheds creases. If wrinkles persist, see our de-wrinkling tips below.
Storage Warning
Never store wool in direct sunlight, even while packed. Extreme temperature changes may cause fibres to sweat, releasing moisture into enclosed spaces.
If your item hasn’t arrived in perfect condition, please contact us straight away.
Removing Wrinkles & Creases from Wool & Cashmere
Wool will usually shed its creases naturally with wear and air circulation, but if stubborn wrinkles persist:
- Hang the item in a steamy bathroom for 10-20 minutes.
- Use a padded hanger for garments to prevent stretching.
- Lay large wool items over a clean shower rail or similar.
- Avoid overcrowding—ensure the fabric is free to relax.
- Close windows and run hot water in the shower to create humidity.
- Do not get the item wet—wool absorbs moisture and may stretch.
Pro Tip: Do not apply direct heat (such as an iron) unless you are an expert in pressing wool garments.
How to Wash Wool: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Hand Washing Wool (Recommended for Most Wool Items)
What You Need:
- A basin of cool or tepid water (up to 30°C)
- A wool-approved detergent (non-bio, no bleach, no enzymes)
- A clean towel for drying
Hand Washing Steps:
- Turn the garment inside out (if applicable).
- Submerge in cool water with wool-safe detergent.
- Gently press the fabric to remove air bubbles—avoid twisting or excessive agitation.
- Leave to soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly in room-temperature water.
- Repeat rinses until detergent is gone and water runs clear.
- Do not wring, twist, or stretch—press out excess water gently instead.
2. Machine Washing Wool (Only for Approved Items!)
Machine Washing Steps:
- Use a gentle wool cycle at 30°C or lower.
- Add wool-safe detergent.
- Select a low spin speed (or no spin for delicate items).
- Remove the item immediately after the cycle finishes.
Do Not:
- Use biological detergents—they contain enzymes that break down wool fibres.
- Wash at high temperatures—this can cause felting and shrinkage.
- Overload the machine—wool items need space to move gently.
FAQs: Wool Washing & Care
Can I wash wool in the washing machine?
Yes, if the care label allows it, but use a wool-specific cycle at 30°C or lower, with a wool-safe detergent.
How do I dry wool without shrinking it?
Always lay flat to dry, away from heat and direct sunlight.
What detergent is safe for wool?
Use only wool-approved detergents—avoid anything with enzymes, bleach, or harsh chemicals.
Shop Wool Care Products Here
With the right care, wool isn’t delicate—it’s incredibly durable. Follow our expert tips, and your wool products will stay beautiful, soft, and long-lasting.