Article: 6 tips for caring for merino wool
6 tips for caring for merino wool
Have you discovered merino wool and are you loving it? You're right, you're wearing an exceptional fiber. Thanks to its extreme fineness and scale structure, it's thermoregulating, breathable, odor-resistant, and wrinkle-resistant.
It therefore does not require the same care as cotton or polyester fibers. Here you will find all the advice you need to preserve its quality and performance over time. Indeed, even if our exclusive merino wools are deliberately less fragile than normal, a minimum of care is necessary... Let's go!
Tip #1: Take advantage of the antibacterial qualities of merino wool!
First thing to understand: Merino wool (like Tencel®) is naturally antibacterial. It doesn't retain odors—especially those from perspiration. It therefore doesn't require as much washing as other materials in your wardrobe (cotton, polyester, nylon). It's up to you to find the right one.
Give it a try. Simply air your Biella shirt, Amsterdam sweater, or polo shirt on a hanger on a balcony or near an open window for a few hours and it will feel fresh again.
Tip #2: Choose dry cleaning
To increase the life of the garment, we recommend dry cleaning.
The machine is nevertheless possible on certain specific parts, if not on a regular basis.
How often should you wash? Washing after every use won't be necessary (and it will save water for the planet!)
For knitwear ( Amsterdam sweater or Arguin polo shirt ), washing should be more regular. Firstly, to remove stubborn stains. But also to prevent moths, which are attracted to stains (proteins). And some are not visible to the naked eye.
Tip #3: maximum 30°, delicate/wool cycle
As for the temperature, it's very simple. Use the " delicate wash / wool at 20 or 30 degrees" program on your washing machine.
However, here are six IMPORTANT rules to follow:
- Set the drum speed to 500 or 600 revolutions per minute MAXIMUM. Otherwise, this will break the fibers and inevitably accentuate the wrinkled appearance of your clothes when they come out of the machine.
- Fill the drum ONLY 50% full. Wool needs space.
- use detergent recommended for wool and avoid fabric softener (unless it is specific to wool)
- Do not mix wool with other materials. Cotton or polyester items can withstand higher temperatures and more vigorous spin cycles.
- Don't mix your sweater or polo shirt with jeans or women's underwear. Buttons, zippers, boning, and bra clasps pose a significant risk of holes and unraveling.
- prefer to wash pants inside out
Hand washing is not recommended. Rubbing will break the fibers, which remain fragile because they are very fine.
Dry cleaning is still recommended.
Tip #4: How to remove stains?
Don't worry! There are solutions for all of them. As long as you tackle them quickly, before they become entrenched.
The rule is to proceed gently. Do not rub the wool vigorously or use an aggressive sponge. And absolutely avoid basic stain removers (such as ammonia or bleach), which will dissolve the wool.
Marseille soap works on a wide variety of stains. Choose a bath that will allow the soap to penetrate the wool's core. Pour a few drops of liquid soap into a warm bath. Then immerse the stain in the water, rubbing gently. You can add a few drops of soap to the stain. Let it sit for 30 minutes. Then rinse.
On a grease stain (oil, butter), absorb the excess as quickly as possible with talcum powder or flour. Leave it to act for 45 minutes before putting it back in the washing machine.
For a wine stain, a clean cloth soaked in 70% alcohol (or white vinegar) will be suitable. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse.
Tip #5: Dry on a hanger or flat
Never use the dryer mode on your machine.
Shirts and polo shirts should be dried on a hanger. Hang them straight and with widened tabs to avoid marking. This is the best way to smooth out wrinkles and maintain their fit. Don't hesitate to fasten the buttons to accentuate the overall fit of the garment.
For knitwear (merino wool and Tencel® sweaters and polo shirts), lay flat to prevent the item from stretching lengthwise or on a hanger. Obviously, avoid hanging them with clothespins, which will leave marks and stretch the item out of shape.
Tip #6: Steam wrinkles
Steam irons are ideal because they won't damage wool. If you're using an iron, set it to the wool/polyamide setting (soleplate temperature 110°C). If your iron doesn't have this setting, don't iron too hot.
Ideally on the inside of the garment for dark colors and knitwear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does wool shrink when washed?
Wool has a natural curly structure. After washing, wool tends to return to its original state. You may experience this as shrinkage (even more noticeable on jersey, a fabric knitted in the round).
Our partner Reda has therefore taken maximum precautions with the spinning and weaving to ensure optimal stability. They will only move within a tolerance of +/- 3%, which remains normal. However, there is no risk with woven shirts.
Does wool pill?
Our wools are of superior quality. You shouldn't experience this kind of inconvenience. Pilling is only the result of mechanical action. For example, excessive rubbing against a backpack, seatbelt, wall, or desk.
To avoid this, eliminate the repeated rubbing. You can possibly remove the pills by shaving your sweater with a pill razor.
Do not hesitate to contact us via chat or at contact@wolbeparis.com for any questions!
Written by yann behr
