How to wash cashmere, lambswool, regular wool or alpaca?
It is a myth that wool should always be hand-washed. This is an old piece of advice from when washing machines did not have proper wool programs. This is no longer the case - now many modern washing machines even have several wool programs. And yes - the washing machine is actually much better at washing wool than you can do by hand.
It is important to note, however, that the best way to treat your wool sweater is to simply air it out. So, less washing and more airing.
5 tips when washing wool:
- Wash in a washing machine on a wool program. The worst thing for wool is temperature changes. Both too cold and too hot water can cause the wool to shrink. Here, the machine does a better job than you can by hand.
- Use liquid wool detergent. Avoid washing powder with enzymes, which can damage the fine fibers of the wool.
- Wool does not like to be wrung out - and cannot withstand movement during washing. Therefore, the wool wash program on the machine is best.
- Do not use fabric softener. The pH value will destroy the natural fibers in the wool.
- Let freshly washed wool dry flat. Clamps leave marks - and if you hang the clothes, they can easily stretch out of shape.
How to care for your wool sweater
Avoid washing your wool sweater too often. Wool is self-cleaning, so a trip outside (especially in frosty weather) or on a hanger in the bathroom while you take a warm shower is much better.
Wool pills regardless of quality. Remove pills by hand or carefully use a wool shaver.
Always read the washing instructions before washing. Machine wash on a wool program at 30 degrees is usually recommended.