How to Care for Wool Products So They Last Longer

Can Wool Be Washed? A Guide to Proper Care Without Mistakes

Are you wondering, “I want to wash my merino wool products, but since they are made of wool, how should I wash them properly?” It is common for merino wool products to shrink or become damaged when washed in the same way as ordinary clothing. 

Merino wool is sensitive to heat, so if it is placed in a high-power dryer, it may shrink. For this reason, natural air drying is necessary. In this way, there are several important points to keep in mind when washing merino wool products.

In this article, we introduce two washing methods: using a washing machine and hand washing. We will also explain the recommended washing frequency, so please read through to the end.

First, Check the Care Label

Before washing, always check the care label on the product. The care label indicates whether machine washing is allowed, how to hand wash, what water temperature can be used, whether dry cleaning is possible, and other important care instructions.

This article explains general washing methods for merino wool products, but depending on the product, machine washing may not be allowed at all. Please make sure to check the care label before washing.

About Laundry Care Symbols

When washing at home, laundry care symbols are generally divided into five categories: washing, bleaching, ironing, drying, and professional cleaning. The meanings of these symbols are published by Japan’s Consumer Affairs Agency, so please compare them with the care label on your merino wool product.

Reference: Consumer Affairs Agency, Government of Japan｜New Laundry Symbols

How to Wash Merino Wool Products: Machine Washing

Here, we explain how to wash merino wool products using a washing machine.

STEP 1: Turn the Garment Inside Out and Place It in a Laundry Net

Before washing by machine, turn the product inside out and place it in a laundry net. Turning it inside out helps protect the surface and prevents fuzzing, snagging, and friction damage.

STEP 2: Use Water and Wool Detergent

Merino wool is sensitive to heat and may shrink if washed with hot water. For this reason, we recommend washing with cold water or lukewarm water below 30°C. Prepare a detergent suitable for wool, or a detergent for delicate clothing, and use the appropriate amount. Avoid strong detergents and bleach, and wash gently.

STEP 3: Set the Washing Mode to “Hand Wash” or “Wool”

Set your washing machine to the hand-wash mode or wool mode. Regular washing modes involve stronger rotation and friction, which may damage the fibers of merino wool. Hand-wash and wool-specific modes wash more gently, helping preserve the shape and texture of the product.

STEP 4: Dry in a Well-Ventilated Place

After washing, dry the garment in a well-ventilated place. Avoid direct sunlight and allow the product to dry naturally. This helps maintain its shape and texture, allowing you to enjoy it for longer.

When drying, we recommend hanging it on a thick hanger. Please avoid wire hangers, as they may cause the garment to lose its shape.

How to Wash Merino Wool Products: Hand Washing

Here, we explain how to wash merino wool products by hand.

STEP 1: Prepare a Washing Solution Below 30°C in a Basin

Fill a basin with water or lukewarm water below 30°C. Add an appropriate amount of detergent to create a washing solution.

STEP 2: Turn the Garment Inside Out, Fold It, and Gently Press-Wash

Turn the garment inside out, fold it, and soak it in the washing solution. Gently press-wash to remove dirt. Avoid friction and be careful not to damage the product.

STEP 3: Once Dirt Is Removed, Change the Water and Rinse

Once the dirt has been removed, replace the water in the basin and rinse the product carefully. Wash away any remaining detergent and rinse the garment with clean water.

STEP 4: Finish by Soaking the Wool in Diluted Fabric Softener

As a finishing step, we recommend using fabric softener. Dissolve it in water or lukewarm water below 30°C, soak the washed wool for a few minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.

Fabric softener helps condition wool fibers, similar to how conditioner after shampoo helps smooth the cuticle of hair.

STEP 5: Place It Folded in a Laundry Net and Spin-Dry in the Washing Machine

Keep the product folded, place it in a laundry net, and spin-dry it in the washing machine. When spin-drying, choose a gentle, low-speed setting. Strong rotation may damage the fibers.

Also, please do not wring the garment by hand before placing it in the washing machine, as this can damage the fibers.

Alternatively, place the product on a large towel and roll it up from one end to absorb moisture. This gentler method helps the product last longer and gives a more careful finish.

STEP 6: Dry in a Well-Ventilated Place

STEP 6 is the same as the machine-washing method. After washing, avoid direct sunlight and dry the garment in a well-ventilated place. We recommend hanging it on a thick hanger.

How Often Should Merino Wool Products Be Washed?

Merino wool has natural antibacterial properties and helps suppress the growth of bacteria that cause odor, so it does not generally need to be washed frequently.

However, the ideal washing frequency depends on the type of item and how it is worn. Below are some examples for reference.

T-Shirts and Shirts

T-shirts and shirts should generally be washed after 1 to 2 wears. However, if you sweat heavily or notice dirt on any part of the garment, we recommend washing it each time.

Sweaters and Cardigans

Sweaters and cardigans should generally be washed after about 5 to 10 wears. These items have less direct contact with the skin, so sweat and body odor are less likely to soak into the fabric.

For this reason, frequent washing is not necessary. As part of regular care, wipe dirty areas with a damp towel or brush off dust to keep the garment clean.

Blankets

Blankets do not need to be washed frequently, so washing them once or twice a month is generally sufficient. However, if you are concerned about dirt, odor, or allergy symptoms, washing once or twice a week may be better. Seasonal changes are also a good time to wash them.

Socks and Underwear

Items that are in close contact with the skin, such as socks and underwear, should be washed after each day of wear. Areas that absorb foot or body sweat are especially prone to bacterial growth, so frequent washing is necessary to maintain cleanliness. After washing, dry them thoroughly in a well-ventilated place to keep them hygienic.