Introduction

Wool is beautiful and warm but notoriously easy to damage. One wrong move and your favorite sweater becomes a felted mess.

Why Wool Is Tricky

• Heat sensitivity – Hot water causes shrinking and felting
• Agitation sensitivity – Rough handling causes matting
• pH sensitivity – Harsh detergents damage fibers
• Shape memory – Can stretch when wet

Can You Machine Wash Wool?

Check the care label:

• “Machine Washable Wool” – Yes, it’s treated
• “Hand Wash Only” – Must be hand washed
• “Dry Clean Only” – Professional cleaning

Machine Washing (When Safe)

1. Turn garment inside out
2. Place in mesh laundry bag
3. Use COLD water only
4. Select “Wool” or “Delicate” cycle
5. Use wool-specific detergent
6. Reduce spin speed to minimum
7. Remove immediately

Hand Washing Wool

1. Fill basin with cool/lukewarm water
2. Add wool detergent or mild shampoo
3. Submerge and gently squeeze
4. DO NOT twist, wring, or scrub
5. Let soak for 10-15 minutes
6. Rinse by gently squeezing in clean water

Drying Wool

Never put wool in the dryer!

1. Gently press water out (don’t wring)
2. Roll in clean towel to absorb moisture
3. Lay flat on dry towel
4. Reshape to original dimensions
5. Keep away from heat or sunlight
6. Allow 24-48 hours to dry