How to care for wool garments

Different types of woollen garments

Wool garments come in a variety of types, each with its own characteristics and care requirements. Here are some of the most common:

• Wool sweater: The wool sweater is a versatile item, popular for its warmth and comfort. It can be knitted from a variety of wool fibers, such as merino wool, lambswool or alpaca wool. It's best to hand-wash or machine-wash your sweater with care, following the specific washing instructions for each type of wool.
• Wool coat or suit jacket: Wool pieces are essential for winter. Coats and suit jackets are often made from thicker, more durable wools, such as sheep's wool or cashmere wool. Before putting them away for the summer season, be sure to professionally clean them to eliminate stains and odors, and store them in a breathable fabric storage bag to protect them from moths.
• Wool scarves and wraps: Wool scarves and wraps are popular accessories for protecting yourself from the cold while adding a touch of elegance to an outfit. They are generally made from light, soft wools, such as merino or alpaca wool. As they are often worn close to the face, we recommend washing them regularly by hand with a mild detergent and lukewarm water to eliminate dirt and bacteria.
• Wool socks: Wool socks offer warmth and comfort to feet in cold weather. They are often made from thicker, more resistant wools, such as sheep's wool or yak wool. To prolong their life, wash them inside out by hand or machine on a delicate program, then dry flat.

Reading care labels

Before starting any care process, take the time to read wool garment labels carefully. Manufacturers often include specific instructions for washing, drying and ironing. Following these instructions will help you avoid common mistakes that can damage wool's delicate fibers.

Hand wash

Wool is a delicate material that requires special care. Wherever possible, we recommend washing wool garments by hand. Fill a sink or large container with lukewarm water and use a mild detergent specially formulated for wool. Gently immerse the garments in the water and rub gently to remove any stains. Be careful not to wring or rub vigorously, as this may cause the wool to felt.

Machine washable

If you prefer to use a washing machine, be sure to use the program suitable for delicate garments or wool. Turn garments inside out to protect them from excessive rubbing. Use a washing net to prevent wool garments from warping or snagging. Use a detergent specifically formulated for wool, warm water and reduced spin speed to minimize damage.

Drying

After washing, it's important to dry wool garments properly. Avoid wringing them to remove excess water, as this can alter their shape. Instead, roll them gently in a clean towel to absorb moisture. Then lay them flat on a clean, dry surface, out of direct sunlight. Avoid rough surfaces that could cause distortion. Make sure garments retain their original shape during drying.

Ironing

If ironing is necessary for certain sweaters or coats, always do it at low temperature and inside out. How do I do it? Use a damp cloth or protective tissue to avoid direct contact between the iron and the wool. Light ironing will help eliminate wrinkles and restore the neat appearance of your wool garments.

Appropriate storage

When you're not wearing your wool garments, it's important to store them properly to avoid damage. Clean before storing to remove dirt and odors. Fold them carefully to avoid permanent creases, and store them in a dry, well-ventilated place. Use breathable fabric storage bags to protect your clothes from dust and insects.

Job processing

If you notice a stain on a wool garment, it's important to act quickly. Gently dab the stain with a clean, damp cloth, avoiding rubbing to avoid aggravating the situation. Use a stain remover specially designed for woollen garments and follow the manufacturer's instructions. If the stain persists, it's best to take the garment to a dry-cleaning professional who specializes in wool.

Caring for your woollen garments will extend their life and keep them looking new for years to come. By following these care tips, you can preserve the warmth, softness and elegance of your wool garments. Don't forget to read care labels carefully, wash your woollen garments gently by hand or machine, and don't hesitate to entrust this task to a professional if in doubt, whether it's a sweater, a coat or simply a scarf. With proper care, your woollen garments will remain choice pieces in your wardrobe for years to come.

Caring for the different types of wool

Merino wool

Merino wool is delicate and requires gentle cleaning to preserve its softness and quality. It is recommended to wash it by hand in warm water with a mild wool detergent. Avoid twisting or rubbing it vigorously. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and lay flat to dry, avoiding direct sunlight.

If your merino wool garment is labeled as machine washable, we advise you to use a gentle or wool cycle to reduce the chances of felting or warping of the fibers.

Virgin wool

Virgin wool is sturdy and can often be machine washed, but it's best to wash it by hand to preserve its texture and insulating properties. Use lukewarm water with a mild wool detergent and avoid twisting or rubbing it excessively. Rinse thoroughly and dry flat.

Mohair wool

Mohair wool is often blended with other fibers and can be machine washed in a gentle cycle with cold or warm water. Lay flat or hang it to dry, avoiding stretching.

Angora wool

It is best to wash angora wool garments by hand to avoid damage to the delicate fibers. Immerse the angora wool garment in soapy water and shake it gently to clean it. Rinse the garment thoroughly with clean water and lay it out on a clean, flat towel to dry. If the garment has lost its shape during washing, gently reshape it back to its original shape.