Washing wool is easy. Wool is naturally stain resistant, odour resistant and also crease resistant, so actually requires less washing. This means that caring for wool is both easy and gentle on the planet. But when it is time to wash wool clothes, you can either wash them in a washing machine, or hand wash with ease.
How to wash wool in a washing machine
Can I wash wool in a washing machine? The answer is yes. Washing wool is really easy and many wool garments can be machine washed, meaning more time to do the things you enjoy. If your Woolmark-approved garment’s care claim says that you can machine wash your piece of wool clothing, then it means it can safely be machine washed in a washing machine multiple times, without shrinkage taking place.
- Wool garments should be washed on the wool setting (usually gentle action at 40°C). If your washing machine does not have a wool cycle, use the cold water wash or wash cycle for delicates.
- Use a neutral, mild detergent that is preferably Woolmark recommended (look for the Woolmark symbol on the packet).
- It is recommended that garments are flat dried after washing.
You may even notice that your washing machine or tumble dryer has the Woolmark Apparel Care symbol on it, which means that your machine has passed rigorous and independent testing and has been approved by The Woolmark Company.
How to hand wash wool clothes
If your Woolmark-approved garment’s care claim says Hand Wash Only, never fear. Hand washing wool is really quick and easy. Follow these simple steps and you'll be out of the laundry in no time.
Turn your wool garment inside out, then hand wash in clean, lukewarm water, approximately 30°C, using a mild and gentle detergent. Allow to soak for a period of 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly firstly in lukewarm water, then finally in cold water.
How to wash specific wool items
Keep reading
How to dry wool
Drying your favourite wool garment is easy. Follow these simple steps and your clothes will look, feel and smell as good as new in no time.
KEEP READING
WASHING TAG INSTRUCTIONS EXPLAINED
You’ve bought it, bagged it, worn it and now it’s time to wash it. Whilst many people assume wool must be hand-washed or dry-cleaned, many pieces of wool clothing can actually be put in the washing machine and even in the tumble dryer too. We explain washing instructions and what laundry care symbols mean.