How to Go About Washing Wool

Washing wool is best done by hand. Unfortunately, wool is prone to shrink and stretch if it isn't washed properly. Here's how to go about washing wool so that it stays wearable.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Brush the wool item to remove dust and other particles.

2. Place the wool item in lukewarm, soapy water, and allow it to soak for 5-10 minutes. Never use strong soaps or alkalies. These can degrade the fibers of wool. Your best bet is pure soap flakes, like Ivory.
   
   It's important that you use lukewarm water, and NOT hot water, since hot water can shrink the wool. If possible, use soft water. If you live in an area with hard water, you may want to use bottled water for washing wool.

3. To wash the wool, swish the material around in the soapy liquid. Never rub pure soap directly on wool material. If the wool is heavily soiled, use a squeezing technique to force soapy water through the material.
   
   You should never twist or rub wool when it's wet, since this can cause the material to lose its shape.

4. Once clean, rinse the wool in clear lukewarm water, using the same methods described above. Remember not to wring and twist! Squeeze and swish instead.
   
   Make sure to remove all of the soap. Residue left over time can weaken the fiber.

5. The safest way to dry wool is to lay it between two dry towels, and press to squeeze out the moisture. Next, lay it flat over a third dry towel, and allow it to air dry (preferably in the sun if it isn't too hot outside).
   
   Don't dry wool in the clothes drier, or using extreme heat. That's a sure way to shrink it.

6. When the wool is dry, you should shake it out well in order to raise the woolly fibers. If needed, brush again.

Resources

• Woollens, Outline of Lessons on Washing, Household Management, by Canadian Ministry of Education

[sonni57]

on 8/27/2009 I didn't know how to properly wash wool thanks for the knowledge.