Wool Care Guide
Everything you need to know to keep your handknitted wool pieces soft, strong, and looking their best for years to come.
How do I take care of my woollen item?
Hand wash in cold water with a mild wool detergent, or use your washing machine’s wool cycle. Lay flat to dry — hanging can stretch the shape out of place. But really: avoid washing your woollen item for as long as possible, as washing removes the oily protective layer that wool naturally has. If you can get away with just airing your hat or scarf at the end of a season, you’re golden. If you do have to wash it, you’re silver — but stick to the instructions above.
The story of the protective layer (lanolin)
Raw wool contains lanolin — a natural waxy layer secreted by sheep. This layer repels water and dirt and prevents the absorption of unpleasant odours. Although some lanolin is removed during industrial processing, some remains on the fibres. Frequent washing with detergents (especially those with enzymes) gradually washes away this protective layer, causing the wool to lose its softness, flexibility and natural resistance.
Why airing works
Wool fibres have a structure that resists the bacteria that cause unpleasant odours. Usually it’s enough to simply hang a hat, scarf or jumper in the fresh air after use (overnight on the balcony, for example) — this “refreshes” the wool itself.
Proper washing and drying (when necessary)
- Cold water and mild detergent: high temperatures and rubbing cause shrinkage and felting of the fibres. Use a wool-specific detergent (often with added lanolin).
- Dry flat: wet wool is very heavy. If you hang it on a hook or hanger, it will stretch out of shape under its own weight. Dry it by laying it on a dry towel on a flat surface.
Already dealing with a shrinking mishap or a moth surprise? Our Accidents Happen! guide can help — and when the season changes, our Time to Rest! guide covers proper storage.
Questions about a specific piece? Contact us — we’re happy to help you keep it in great shape for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I take care of my woollen item?
Hand wash in cold water with a mild wool detergent, or use your washing machine’s wool cycle, and lay flat to dry. Best of all: just air it after wearing, and wash only when you really need to. Full guide: Wool Care Guide.
What is lanolin, and why does it matter?
Lanolin is the natural waxy layer raw wool contains – it repels water and dirt and helps prevent odours. Frequent washing gradually strips it away, so the less you wash, the longer your piece stays soft.
Why does airing work instead of washing?
Wool fibres naturally resist the bacteria that cause odour, so hanging a hat, scarf or jumper in fresh air – overnight on a balcony, for example – is usually enough to refresh it.
What’s the correct way to wash and dry wool when I do need to?
Cold water with a wool-specific detergent, and dry flat on a towel – hanging wet wool stretches it out of shape under its own weight.
What if my item is already stained or shrunk, or needs long-term storage?
See Accidents Happen! for fixing mishaps, and Time to Rest! for seasonal storage.