How to Clean & Block Wool Sweaters

Wash wool sweaters by hand to avoid shrinkage.

Nothing's better on a chilly autumn day than pulling on your favorite wool sweater--especially if it's one you've knit yourself. Wool is naturally water resistant and warm, but is susceptible to damage when wet. Wool sweaters require special care to avoid shrinking or stretching them. Wash them infrequently and store in a dry, cool closet.

Things You'll Need

• Mild dish washing detergent with a neutral pH
• 2 towels

Instructions

1. Fill a clean sink with warm water. Add 1/8 cup detergent. Turn your sweater inside out to protect fibers.

2. Place the sweater in the sink and push it down gently so the entire sweater is submerged.

3. Soak the sweater for 20 minutes and drain. Run warm water over the sweater until no bubbles remain.

4. Leave the sweater in the sink for 10 minutes to drain.

5. Lift the sweater out of the sink and lay it on a towel. Hold the sweater from the bottom so it doesn't stretch as you lift it.

6. Roll the towel, pressing on it, to remove moisture from the sweater. Unroll it and blot it with another towel. Don't wring or stretch the sweater.

7. Lay the sweater flat, face up on a dry towel. Gently re-shape the sweater (blocking). Button the buttons and adjust the collar and sleeves. Draw the waistband together. Leave the sweater to dry overnight.

8. Shake the sweater to fluff it. Fold it and store.

Tips & Warnings

• Never hang a wool sweater.

• Place a bag of cedar chips in your closet to discourage moths.

• Cut off pills with small scissors. Never pull them as you'll damage the sweater.

• Don't use chlorine bleach on wool sweaters. It weakens the fibers.

References

• Organic Authority: How to Care for Your Organic Wool Sweater
• "Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook"; Martha Stewart; 2006

Resources

• Morehouse Farm Merino: Knitting Sweaters for Children