Wool Fabric Care: The Secret to Washing and Storing Without Shrinking

🐑 Your Precious Wool Knit: The Secrets to Lifelong Care

Wool fabric is a winter essential, loved for its soft touch and superior warmth, but it can easily shrink or become damaged if washed or stored incorrectly. Wool has a unique scale structure that makes it vulnerable to water and friction. Dry cleaning is the safest option, but when you need to hand-wash at home, I''ll share the care secrets to wear your clothes longer without ruining them.

🚿 1. 3 Essentials for Hand-Washing Wool

Wool is sensitive to temperature changes and physical friction. Sticking to these two points can significantly extend the life of your wool garments.

1. Water Temperature Must Be ''Lukewarm'' (Below 30°C / 86°F):

Wool''s protein fibers tangle and shrink when exposed to rapid temperature changes and hot water. This is called shrinkage.
You must use lukewarm water below 30°C or cold water, and maintain a consistent water temperature throughout the wash.

2. Neutral Detergent ''Wool Shampoo'' is Mandatory:

Alkaline detergents (most general powder detergents) roughen and damage wool fibers.
You must use a wool-specific neutral pH detergent (wool shampoo), diluted completely in water before soaking the garment.

3. ''Soak'' Instead of Kneading or Rubbing:

Wool tends to felt (fibers matting together) due to friction. Never rub or knead it by hand.
Soak it in the detergent solution for about 5 minutes, and only wash the soiled areas by lightly pressing down. When rinsing, change the water and gently press to remove the suds—this is key.

📦 2. The Golden Rule of Wool Storage

1. Lay Flat to Dry:

To remove excess water after washing, place the garment between two towels and press to absorb. (Do not wring it!)
Do not hang it on a hanger for drying. Lay it flat in a shaded, well-ventilated area to prevent the fibers from stretching due to the garment''s weight.

2. Folded Storage:

Hangers can permanently stretch wool fabrics even in storage. Store it neatly folded on a shelf or in a drawer, not on a hanger, to maintain its shape.

When handling your precious wool knits, always remember ''minimal friction and lukewarm temperature.''