How to Care for Wool

Read the full story from the SABA journal.

Wool is a natural, resilient, and breathable fabric featured prominently in many of SABA’s seasonal capsules. To preserve the luxurious feel and long-lasting quality of your wool pieces, it is essential to follow proper care techniques.

Here is a comprehensive guide on how to care for your wool garments from SABA.

Washing Wool Garments

Wool is a delicate fibre that should not be washed too frequently, as repeated washing can damage the fibres and cause the fabric to shrink.

Hand wash in cold water: Always wash wool in cold water to prevent shrinkage. Gently hand wash the garment, avoiding harsh rubbing or wringing, which can distort the fabric and cause it to lose its shape.Use a mild detergent: Opt for a gentle detergent specifically designed for wool. If needed, you can substitute your regular hair shampoo, as it is sufficiently mild to protect the fibres without causing damage.Rinse with vinegar: To eliminate detergent residue and help maintain the wool's natural softness, add a few drops of white vinegar to the final rinse water. This also aids in preserving the garment's colour.

Drying Wool Garments

Wool garments should always be air-dried, as exposure to heat sources like tumble dryers can result in shrinkage and fibre damage.

Avoid wringing: Never wring wool garments to remove excess water. Instead, gently press the water out to preserve the fabric’s structure.

Towel roll to dry: After washing, roll the garment in a dry towel, or place it between two towels and roll it gently using a rolling pin to absorb excess water.

Flat drying: Lay your wool garment flat on a clean, dry towel to air dry. Do not hang the garment, as this can cause the fabric to stretch out of shape.

Air dry: Allow the garment to dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or artificial heat sources such as radiators. This preserves the wool's natural shape and softness.

Ironing Wool Garments

If your wool garment becomes wrinkled, follow these steps to smooth out the creases safely:

Iron inside out: Always iron wool garments inside out to protect the fabric from direct heat. Use a low heat setting and minimise the use of steam to avoid damaging the fibres.

Use steam for de-wrinkling: Alternatively, you can hang your wool garment in a steamy bathroom to naturally remove wrinkles. The steam will help relax the fabric and smooth out any creases without direct contact with the iron.

General Care Tips

Minimise washing frequency: Wool garments do not need to be washed after every wear. In many cases, simply airing the garment for 24 hours will be enough to refresh it. This reduces wear on the fibres, preserving both the garment and your time.

Spot clean stains: For minor stains, spot clean the affected area with a damp cloth or mild detergent. This reduces the need for a full wash cycle, which can be harsh on the fibres.

Wash at lower temperatures: Always select the lowest wash temperature suitable for the garment. Washing in cold water helps protect the wool from shrinkage and reduces energy consumption.

Dry naturally: Opt for air drying whenever possible. This energy-efficient method ensures your garment maintains its shape and longevity.

While most wool garments can be hand-washed or air-dried at home, certain pieces may require professional care. Always consult the care label for specific cleaning instructions, particularly if the label recommends dry cleaning. Following these guidelines ensures the best possible care for your wool garments.