Oliver Charles Guide To Caring For Wool

Invest in wool with confidence.

Are you wondering how to keep your wool sweaters stain-free and in pristine condition for decades? Caring for wool garments can seem a bit tricky, especially with their unique needs. But here's the good news: wool is naturally low-maintenance, thanks to its amazing properties.

Whether you're thinking about how often to wash your wool sweaters, the best detergents to use, or how to handle them while traveling, we've got you covered.

Wool mostly takes care of itself, but in this guide, we'll walk you through simple tips to ensure your wool looks and feels fantastic for all of life. Let’s dive in and make wool care easy and stress-free!

How Often Do You Wash Wool Sweaters?

When it comes to washing wool sweaters, less is definitely more! Wool has amazing natural properties that make it super low-maintenance.

Thanks to the properties of the fibers, wool is naturally antimicrobial, which means it doesn’t harbor bacteria and odors like other materials. So, unless your wool sweater smells, feels, or looks dirty, you can usually skip the wash.

Instead of frequent washing, give your wool sweaters a little air time. After wearing, let them air out for a day before tucking them back into your closet. If you want to freshen them up, a quick spritz with a fabric refresher or a gentle "bird bath" in the sink will do the trick.

When your wool sweater does need a wash, resist the urge to send it to the dry cleaner. The solvents used in dry cleaning can be harsh on wool fibers, causing them to break down over time.

Instead, opt for a gentle hand wash or use your washing machine’s delicate cycle with cold water.

Lay your wool sweater flat to dry to maintain its shape, and you’ll keep it looking great for many seasons to come.

How Do You Care For 100% Wool? Is It Possible To Not Ruin It?

Caring for 100% wool doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a few simple steps, you can keep your wool garments looking fresh and lasting longer without ruining them. Here’s how:

First things first, don't over-wash your wool. Wool is naturally odor-resistant thanks to the fiber’s structure and lanolin, so it doesn’t need to be washed as frequently as other fabrics.

Overwashing can strip away natural oils and felt fibers, reducing its ability to repel odors. Instead, let your wool garments air out between wears.

Layering is another helpful trick. Wear an organic cotton, SeaCell, hemp, or linen T-shirt underneath your wool sweater. This will help absorb sweat, keeping the wool fresher for longer. You only need to wash the T-shirt after each wear, not the sweater. This approach was quite common in the past, when people wore a linen chemise next to their skin, which was changed and washed frequently while the wool was spot-cleaned as needed.

When it’s time to wash your wool, be gentle. Turn the garment inside out to give the water better access to areas like the underarms. Use cold water and a gentle detergent designed for wool.

Drying your wool properly is just as important as washing it. Lay your wool garment flat to dry on a clean towel or drying rack. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as these can cause yellowing and, if really hot, shrinkage. Never hang your wool garments to dry, as the weight of the water can distort their shape. Wool dries fairly quickly, so you’ll usually find it ready to wear again by the next day.

It’s also normal for wet wool to smell a bit like a wet sheep... it is their wool after all. This just means you have a quality wool garment! The smell will disappear once the wool is dry.

Remember, the key to caring for wool is to be gentle and patient. Ask yourself, "Do I really need to wash this yet?" Often, a simple airing out is all it needs.

With these tips, you’ll find that caring for wool is easy and your garments will thank you for it!

How To Care For Wool When Traveling?

Caring for wool while traveling can seem tricky, but with the right approach, it's quite manageable. Here are some tips to keep your wool garments fresh and clean on the go.

When you're packing for your trip, preparation is key. Detergent sheets are perfect for travel. They are lightweight and easy to pack, and they work wonders for washing wool in sinks.

Toss a few into your suitcase, and you'll be set for those times when your wool clothes need a bit of freshening up.

Also, consider bringing a small mesh laundry bag for your delicate items.

Once you’re on the road, spot cleaning will be your best friend. Wool doesn’t need frequent washing, so focus on addressing small stains or odor spots as they occur.

Different stains require different treatments. But for many spills, gently blotting the stain with cold water and a bit of the dissolved detergent sheet does the trick. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fibers and potentially damage them.

When your wool needs a more thorough cleaning, washing it in a sink is the way to go. Fill the sink with lukewarm water and dissolve a detergent sheet.

Turn your garment inside out, gently swish it in the water, and let it soak for about 10-15 minutes. Afterward, rinse with clean water until the soap is gone. Remember, never wring out wool; instead, press the water out gently with your hands.

After rinsing, roll your wool garment in a clean towel to remove excess water. Then, lay it flat on another dry towel or a portable drying rack. Avoid hanging your wool garments, as this can cause them to stretch out of shape. If you’re in a hurry, using a hairdryer on a cool setting can help speed up the process, but be sure to avoid high heat.

Between wears, simply let your wool garments air out. Hang them in a well-ventilated area or near a window to keep them fresh. Wool is naturally antimicrobial, so it won’t hold onto odors like synthetic fabrics.

Creating a small, travel-friendly care kit for your wool garments can make all the difference. Include detergent sheets, a travel-size bottle of fabric refresher spray, and if you’re really going for full preparation, a foldable drying rack. This kit will make it easy to keep your wool in top condition no matter where your travels take you.

By following these tips, you'll find that caring for wool on the road is easier than you might have thought. With a little planning and the right tools, your wool garments will stay fresh and ready to wear, keeping you comfortable and stylish throughout your trip.

What Laundry Detergent Is Best For Wool?

When it comes to washing your wool garments, choosing the right detergent is essential to keeping them in great condition. Always opt for a gentle, wool-specific detergent. Regular detergents (especially enzyme detergents) can be too harsh, stripping the natural fibers and reducing their effectiveness over time. Wool-specific detergents are formulated to clean your garments while preserving their unique properties.

One highly recommended product is Eucalan, which contains lanolin. Lanolin helps keep wool fibers supple and soft, enhancing the garment’s longevity. Another great option is Soak, known for its gentle formulation.

However, be mindful that some people may be sensitive to lanolin, which can cause itching. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, it's a good idea to test a small amount on a garment first to see how your skin reacts.

It’s also important to choose a non-enzyme detergent for wool. Enzymes can break down the proteins in wool, potentially causing damage. Wool-specific detergents like Eucalan and Soak avoid these harsh ingredients, making them safer choices for your delicate fabrics.

By using the right detergent, you can keep your wool garments clean, soft, and long-lasting.

How Do I Spot Clean Or Get Stains Out Of Wool?

When it comes to spot cleaning or getting stains out of wool, a gentle approach is key to maintaining the integrity of your garments.

For minor spots, start with a bit of diluted castile soap and a soft cloth. Gently dab the stained area with the soapy cloth, taking care not to scrub too harshly. This method is great for small stains and helps you avoid full washes, which can be tough on wool.

If you’re dealing with a more stubborn stain, your first line of defense should be to hand wash the affected area as soon as possible. Use a diluted gentle soap, such as Dawn, and gently scrub the spot with a washcloth. Make sure the soap is well-rinsed to avoid any residue.

Sometimes, spot cleaning might not be enough. In these cases, giving the garment an extra soak in your washing machine can help. Use the machine's gentle cycle with cold water to avoid any potential shrinkage or damage to the wool fibers. This extra soak often does the trick for more persistent stains.

For those who deal with frequent or difficult stains, investing in a laundry ozonator can be a game-changer. This device hooks up to the cold water inlet of your washing machine and uses ozone to clean your clothes.

With a laundry ozonator, you don’t need detergent, and it uses only cold water, which helps prevent setting stains with heat. This method can be particularly effective for wool garments, as it gently cleans and preserves the fabric.

Whether you’re tackling a fresh spill or a set-in stain, remember that prompt and gentle cleaning is your best bet. By treating your wool garments with care, you’ll keep them looking fresh and new for years to come.

How Do You Refresh Wool Without Washing It?

Refreshing wool without washing it is a great way to maintain its quality and extend the time between washes.

Wool is naturally antimicrobial, which means it’s self-cleaning. After wearing your wool garments, simply air them out. Hang them in a well-ventilated area, such as near a window or an air vent. This helps release any trapped odors and refreshes the fabric.

For a quick refresh between wears, you can use a homemade spray made from 50% vinegar and 50% vodka. This old theater trick is perfect for neutralizing odors. Lightly spray the garment and allow it to air dry. This method works particularly well for areas that tend to get sweaty, like underarms.

Another tip is to drape your recently worn wool items in the bathroom while you shower. The steam and ventilation help to freshen up the fabric naturally. Just be sure to keep the garment away from direct water.

By using these simple tricks, you can keep your wool garments smelling fresh and looking great without the need for frequent washing.

How to Hand Wash 100% Wool Knit Sweater

Hand washing 100% wool knit clothing can seem a bit daunting, but with the right technique, it’s quite simple and ensures your garments stay in great shape.

Start by filling a basin or sink with tepid water. You want the water to be comfortably warm, but not hot. Add a capful of a gentle wool wash, like Eucalan, to the water. Submerge your wool sweater, gently pushing it under the water to make sure it's fully soaked. Hold it there for a moment to allow the fibers to absorb the water evenly.

Let the sweater soak for about 15 minutes. You can occasionally move it around gently to ensure the soap and water are distributed evenly. Just pick it up and place it back in the water gently—avoid any vigorous agitation, as this can cause felting.

After soaking, carefully lift the sweater out of the water. Drain the basin and then press the sweater against the sink walls to remove excess water. You’ll notice the sweater is quite heavy now; this is normal. Try to position it on an incline in the sink, so gravity helps drain more water from the top to the bottom. Gently press the bottom part against the sink to push out more water. Remember, never wring your wool garment, as this can distort the fibers and shape.

Once you've removed as much water as possible, lay the sweater flat on a clean towel. Roll the towel up with the sweater inside, pressing firmly as you roll to absorb more water. This method helps to dry the sweater further without causing damage.

Afterward, unroll the towel and lay the sweater flat on a drying rack. Good air circulation will help it dry faster, so place it in a well-ventilated area.

If you’re in a hurry, you can turn on a ceiling fan to speed up the process. Keep an eye on any areas that might drip initially and gently squeeze them if needed. Turn the sweater over later in the drying process to ensure it dries evenly on both sides.

By following these steps, you can hand wash your wool knits with confidence, keeping them fresh and in great condition for years to come.

How To Deep Clean A Wool Sweater?

When your wool sweater needs a deeper cleaning, there are a few steps you can follow to ensure it comes out fresh and looks great.

Try a vinegar soak. Sometimes, deodorant buildup and lingering odors can cling to your wool sweater, and a vinegar soak is a perfect way to tackle this. Fill a basin with cool water and add a cup of white vinegar. Gently submerge your wool sweater in the solution and let it soak for about 15 minutes. The vinegar will help break down any residues and refresh the fabric.

After the vinegar soak, you'll want to give the sweater a gentle wash. Fill your basin or sink with cool water and add a small amount of gentle wool detergent or a mild soap like castile soap. Swish the water around to distribute the soap evenly before adding your sweater.

Turn the sweater inside out and submerge it in the soapy water. Gently move it around in the water to ensure the detergent reaches all areas, but avoid any vigorous scrubbing or twisting. 

Let the sweater soak for another 10-15 minutes to allow the detergent to work its magic. Once the time is up, drain the soapy water and refill the basin with cool, clean water to rinse the sweater. You may need to rinse a few times to ensure all the soap is removed. Again, be gentle and avoid wringing out the fabric.

To remove excess water, lay the sweater flat on a clean towel. Roll the towel up with the sweater inside, pressing firmly as you roll to absorb more water. This method helps to dry the sweater further without causing any damage or stretching.

Finally, lay the sweater flat on a drying rack or another clean, dry towel. Make sure it’s in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Allow the sweater to air dry completely, flipping it over occasionally to ensure even drying.

By following these steps, you can give your wool sweater a deep clean that removes buildup and odors while keeping the fabric in excellent condition. With a little care and patience, your sweater will look, feel, and smell as good as new.

How To Do Laundry With Hard Water?

Doing laundry with hard water can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right approach, you can keep your clothes clean and fresh.

Hard water contains minerals that can interfere with the effectiveness of detergents, making it harder to get your clothes truly clean.

One simple solution is to use a water softener. Adding a water softener to your laundry routine can help neutralize these minerals, allowing your detergent to work more effectively.

Another great option is to add a bit of Borax to your laundry. Borax is a natural water softener and can boost the cleaning power of your detergent.

Just add half a cup of Borax to your washing machine along with your usual detergent. This can make a noticeable difference in how fresh your clothes smell and feel.

Since incorporating Borax into my laundry routine, I’ve found that my wool garments come out cleaner and fresher, with less residue from hard water.

If you don’t have Borax on hand, you can also look for laundry detergents specifically designed for use with hard water. These detergents often contain ingredients that help to soften the water and improve cleaning.

By using a water softener or adding Borax to your laundry, you can overcome the challenges of hard water and keep your clothes looking and smelling great.

Is There Any Way To Effectively Re-Lanolize Wool?

If your wool garments have lost their lanolin, re-lanolizing them can help restore their natural properties. Here’s a short guide to effectively re-lanolize your wool.

First, you'll want to strip the wool of any buildup. To do this, soak your wool garment in a mix of water and a gentle dish soap, such as Blue Dawn.

This step is essential for removing oils or residues trapped in the fibers. After soaking, thoroughly rinse the garment to ensure all soap is removed, as any residue can affect the re-lanolizing process.

Next, it’s time to re-lanolize. Dissolve a small amount of lanolin in hot water. Once it's fully dissolved, add this solution to a basin of lukewarm water.

Submerge your wool garment in the lanolin-infused water and let it soak. This process restores the natural lanolin coating, helping to re-establish the wool’s odor-resistant and moisture-wicking properties.

Re-lanolizing is particularly important if you’ve been washing your wool frequently or using products that strip its natural oils. Doing this process a couple of times a year can make a noticeable difference in the performance and longevity of your wool garments.

If your wool clothing starts to smell unusually fast, it’s likely because the natural lanolin barrier has been washed away. Re-lanolizing can help rebuild this protective coating...

Or it could be your deodorant. Check out this blog about what deodorants to use with wool...

Just like seasoning a cast iron pan, maintaining the lanolin coating on your wool is essential. After re-lanolizing, continue to wash your wool with a gentle, lanolin-free detergent to clean dirt and grime without stripping away the lanolin. This routine will help keep your wool garments in top condition.

By following these steps, you can effectively re-lanolize your wool and enjoy its natural benefits for a long time.

Can I Put 100% Wool In The Dryer?

When it comes to drying 100% wool, it's best to avoid the dryer. The heat and tumbling action of a dryer can cause it to shrink, lose its shape, and even felt.

Instead, after washing your wool garment, gently press it against the sides of the sink to remove excess water. Be careful not to wring it out, as this can stretch and distort the fibers. Once most of the water is out, lay your wool garment flat on a clean towel. You can roll the towel up with the garment inside to help absorb more water.

After that, lay the garment flat on a drying rack or another dry towel in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This method helps maintain the shape and integrity of the wool, keeping it looking and feeling great for a long time.

So, while it might be tempting to speed up the drying process by using a dryer, your wool garments will thank you for taking the time to dry them flat.

Can You Unshrink Wool?

Unshrinking wool is possible, and with a bit of patience and care, you can bring your favorite wool garments back to their original size.

Start by soaking your shrunken wool item in a lanolized wool wash or a gentle conditioner.

Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add the wool wash or conditioner. Submerge the wool garment and let it soak for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps relax the fibers, making them easier to stretch.

Once the soaking is complete, gently squeeze out the excess water without wringing or twisting the garment. Lay it flat on a clean towel and roll the towel up to absorb more water. Now, you’re ready to start the stretching process, also known as blocking.

Blocking involves gently stretching the wool garment into its desired shape. Lay the garment flat on a mesh sweater rack or another surface that allows air to circulate.

Carefully stretch the garment, using clothes pins or clips to hold it in place. Adjust the size and shape as needed, ensuring the garment looks even and well-proportioned.

For heavier knit items, a mesh sweater rack is particularly useful, as it allows for better air circulation during drying. It’s a handy tool to have, especially for expensive wool sweaters that you want to take good care of.

If your wool garment is severely shrunken, you might want to try a more intensive method. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to a container of hot water, submerge the sweater, and gently swish it around. Leave the garment to soak overnight. The next day, remove the sweater, lay it flat, and block it as described above. Allow it to dry completely before washing it as usual.

With these techniques, you can often restore shrunken wool items to their original size and shape. It’s worth the effort, especially for those cherished wool pieces you want to keep in your wardrobe for years to come.

How To Prevent Wool From Felting?

Preventing wool from felting is all about minimizing agitation and heat during the washing and drying processes.

Felting happens when wool fibers are agitated and move around, especially in the dryer, where they can lock together to form felt. To avoid this, it’s crucial to handle your wool garments gently.

If you’re machine washing a wool knit, preparation is key. Start by turning your garment inside out. This way, if any felting or pilling does occur, it will be on the inside and less visible. Next, roll the wool garment up as tightly as you can without bunching it. This tight roll helps minimize movement and friction between fibers.

Place the rolled garment inside a mesh washing bag. Rolling the bag tightly and securing it with a safety pin can further reduce movement. This setup prevents the wool from coming into contact with other garments and its own fibers, which greatly minimizes the risk of felting.

When washing, always use a gentle cycle with cold water. The presence of water between the fibers during the wash cycle helps prevent them from locking together.

Avoid the dryer. The combination of heat and agitation in the dryer is where most felting occurs. Instead, after washing, gently press out excess water from your wool garment without wringing it. Lay it flat on a clean towel, roll it up to absorb more water, and then lay it flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area to air dry.

By taking these steps, you can keep your wool garments looking and feeling great, free from the unwanted effects of felting.

How To Properly Store Wool?

Storing wool properly ensures your garments stay in great condition and free from damage.

First, store woolen knitwear folded. Hanging wool garments can cause them to stretch or distort over time, so folding is the best way to maintain their shape. Before storing, make sure your wool garments are clean. Insects are attracted to food residues, so a freshly washed sweater is far less likely to invite unwanted guests.

Choose a cool, dry place for storage. Wool is susceptible to insect damage, so it's important to store it in a way that keeps bugs at bay. Use breathable cotton storage bags with zip closures.

These allow air to circulate while protecting your garments from dust and pests. Avoid storing wool in plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause yellowing or create an inviting environment for insects.

If you’re using a cedar chest, remember that cedar’s effectiveness diminishes over time and bugs can still find their way through small openings.

For added protection, consider placing a sachet of dried lavender in your storage box. Lavender is a natural insect repellent and adds a pleasant scent to your stored items.

By following these tips, you’ll keep your wool garments safe, fresh, and ready to wear whenever you need them.

If you believe that every good wardrobe starts with owning less and owning better, consider buying yourself an OLIVER CHARLES sweater.