The Ultimate Guide to Washing and Caring for Your Woollens
The delicate nature of woolen garments means they are prone to shrinking after the first wash, but over time they can stretch and lose their shape. It is imperative to master the art of washing and caring for these items to ensure their longevity.
As the weather turns colder, woolen sweaters become essential items for everyone. However, not everyone knows how to wash sweaters properly to prevent shrinkage, stretching, or fading. Check out these handy household tips to help keep your sweaters looking new and lasting longer.
To avoid shrinkage, use warm water (around 30°C) when washing your sweaters. For the final rinse, add a little vinegar to the water. This will help retain the fabric’s elasticity and bright color while neutralizing any remaining soap residue.
Fix Stretched-Out Sweaters
Even with careful washing, sweaters tend to stretch and become looser over time. To restore them to their original shape, soak the sweaters in water at a temperature of 70–80°C. If only the cuffs or hem have lost their elasticity, soak those areas separately in water at 40–50°C. After an hour or two, remove the sweaters and lay them flat to dry, and they will regain their elasticity.
Proper Drying Techniques
Hanging wet woolen garments on a clothesline can cause them to lose their shape. Instead, after washing, gently roll the sweater in a towel to remove excess water, then lay it flat on a surface to air-dry.
Refresh and Revitalize
To refresh your woolens, avoid using regular bleach and opt for a special solution instead: boil 5 liters of water and add 250g of soap, 15g of ammonia, and 15g of pine resin. Stir the mixture until the soap dissolves, then remove it from the heat and let it cool down. Soak your woolens in this solution for about 5 minutes, gently agitating them without wringing. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. This method will brighten your garments without damaging the delicate wool fibers.
Source: VietQ
Frequently asked questions
Fill a basin or sink with cool water and add a gentle detergent. Soak your woollens for 10-15 minutes, then gently squeeze out the water. Do not twist or wring the fabric. Rinse with cool water and gently press to remove excess water. Lay the garment flat on a towel and roll it up to absorb moisture. Unroll and reshape, then leave to air dry flat.
Yes, but with caution. Always use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Place your woollens inside a mesh laundry bag before putting them into the machine. Avoid overloading the machine, and do not wash with heavy items that could cause abrasion. After washing, reshape the garment and lay it flat to dry.
Air drying is the best method. Lay the garment flat on a drying rack or a clean towel, and reshape it gently. Avoid hanging woollens as it can cause stretching and distortion. Do not dry them in direct sunlight or near a heat source, as this can cause shrinkage and fading.
Not as often as your other garments. Wool is naturally odor-resistant and has self-cleaning properties. Depending on the frequency of wear and the climate, you may only need to wash your woollens once or twice a season. Spot-treating stains and airing them out between wears can extend the time between washes.
Treat stains as soon as possible. Gently blot fresh stains with a damp cloth. For dried stains, scrape off any excess, then use a stain remover or a mild detergent diluted in water. Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading. Rinse thoroughly with cool water, then wash the garment as usual.
No, fabric softener is not necessary and may even coat the fibers, reducing their natural breathability. If you feel your woollens need softening, add a quarter cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle, which will help relax the fibers and remove any soap residue.
Make sure they are clean before storing, as dirt and oils can attract pests and cause discoloration. Fold or hang them in a breathable cotton storage bag or box. Avoid using plastic containers, which can trap moisture and cause mildew. Store them in a dark, dry place, such as a closet or under a bed, to prevent fading and discoloration.
Pilling is the formation of small balls of fiber on the surface of the fabric. It is a natural occurrence caused by friction. You can remove pills using a fabric shaver or a pill remover. Lay the garment on a flat surface and gently glide the shaver in the direction of the pills. Be gentle to avoid snagging the fabric.
Hang your woollens in the bathroom while taking a hot shower, and the steam will help release wrinkles. You can also use a clothing steamer, holding it a few inches away from the fabric and gently moving it up and down. If you must iron, always use a pressing cloth and set the iron to a low temperature.
Avoid using hot water when washing, as it can cause shrinkage and felting. Do not tumble dry, as it can distort the shape and size. Avoid hanging woollens to dry, as it can stretch the fabric. Never use bleach or harsh chemicals, and be cautious when using stain removers, always testing on a small area first.
