The Best Way To Deal With Stains On 100% Wool Fibers

Master the art of wool care with these techniques for stain-free wool sweaters.

Wool stains are tricky to handle, and there are a few good reasons why. Let’s break it down, so we can keep our favorite wool pieces looking spotless and in rotation longer.

First, wool is a natural fiber that comes from many animals. At Oliver Charles, we make our sweaters with yak wool.

No matter which type of wool you own, from merino, cashmere, or alpaca, they all have a unique fiber structure compared to plant-based fibers like cotton or plastic-based fibers like polyester.

Wool is composed of proteins that can react in unexpected ways to different substances, which is why there are unique techniques for getting out different types of stains, from grass to grease.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to get these different types of stains out of your favorite wool sweater, but first, let’s explore how wool reacts to cleaning agents and heat.

By the end of this blog, you’ll have the tools you need to face any unexpected stain.

How To Remove Stains From 100% Wool?

When it comes to dealing with stains on your favorite wool sweaters, a little bit of care and some handy tricks can go a long way. Here are my favorite methods that have worked wonders.

If you spill on your favorite wool sweater, there's no need to panic! I've been there, and here's what you can do. Before you try to muscle a stain out, beware that wool is sensitive to many common cleaning agents.

Harsh chemicals can damage the fibers, causing them to weaken or even break. This is why you can’t just grab any old stain remover from under the sink. For instance, you’ll want to avoid anything enzyme-based, as these agents will break down the proteins in wool and damage the fibers.

Instead, one of my go-to remedies is a mixture of baking soda and diluted Dawn dish soap. Yep, the classic blue bottle one! I mix equal parts of baking soda and Dawn. Then, I gently apply it to the stain. I usually gently scrub with my fingertips, following the grain of the wool fibers.

An alternative solution is a mix of baking soda and vinegar. I sprinkle a bit of baking soda on the stain and then add a tiny amount of vinegar. Vinegar, particularly distilled white vinegar, is mildly acidic, which makes it great for breaking down various types of stains without harming the delicate wool fibers. This mild acidity can unbind stains effectively, while the baking soda’s fizzing action helps lift the stain from the material. After letting it sit for a few minutes, I give it a gentle scrub and rinse.

Last month, I was out and spilled on my Light Grey All-Season Sweater. I couldn’t treat it immediately, but I did dab it with some water and a napkin to minimize the damage. When I got home, I immediately used diluted Dawn soap to spot-wash the stain. Thankfully, it worked, and my sweater was saved!

It’s important to remember heat also plays a big role. When you apply heat to a stained wool garment, it can cause the stain to bond more firmly to the fibers.

Many stains are composed of proteins or complex molecules that undergo chemical changes when exposed to heat. This can make them adhere more strongly to the wool, making the stain nearly impossible to remove.

Sometimes, one round of treatment isn’t enough. Don't be discouraged if the stain doesn’t come out after the first wash. Just repeat the process.

Always be gentle – wool fibers are delicate, and harsh scrubbing can do more harm than good. Vigorous scrubbing or harsh treatment can cause the fibers to felt. Gentle blotting and careful treatment are key.

Different Stain Treatments For Wool Clothing

Getting stains out of wool might seem daunting at first, but trust me, it’s all about knowing the right tricks for the specific stain you're dealing with. Let’s go through some common stains and how to tackle them.

Getting Oil Or Grease Stains Out Of Wool Clothing: Grease stains are common kitchen mishaps. The trick is to act quickly. Gently scrape off any excess grease with something blunt like your fingernail (or a dull spoon), blot the grease with a dry paper towel first to get rid of any excess, then apply a 50/50 vinegar/water solution directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse it out with tepid water and, if needed, repeat the process. I always avoid high-heat machine washing or machine drying because too much heat can set the stain permanently.

Getting Makeup Stains Out Of Wool Clothing: These are the kind of stains that can send you into a panic, but they’re actually quite manageable. Smear lipstick or eyeshadow on your favorite wool sweater? No problem.

When this happens, dab the stain gently with a cloth soaked in a 50/50 vinegar/water solution. Then, press it with an absorbent towel to soak up the solution. If it doesn’t immediately come out, I just repeat the process. It works like a charm, and your sweater will be good as new after it dries.

Getting Grass Stains Out Of Wool Clothing: Grass stains bring back memories of picnics and outdoor fun. If you catch one right away, rinse under cold running water immediately. Then, apply baking soda and mild soap solution to the stain, followed by dabbing with a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol.

Getting Chocolate Stains Out Of Wool Clothing: Chocolate is a tough stain but not impossible to remove. Dab around the edge of the stain with a cloth soaked in a baking soda/dish soap solution. If there’s an oily residue after it dries, a cloth soaked in a water/vinegar solution will handle it.

Quick Tips For Wool Sweater Care While Traveling

When traveling with your favorite wool garments, knowing how to care for them and handle any stains that might pop up is essential. Here are some friendly tips to keep your wool looking its best while on the go. For example, a small laundry kit can be a lifesaver. Include a sink stopper, and a travel-sized solution (whether soap or vinegar).

With these, you can easily hand-wash your wool items in a hotel sink. When traveling, I’ve also heard good things about carrying a Fels Naptha bar. Seriously, people swear by it! With these tips, you can keep your wool clothing in great shape, no matter where your travels take you!

Caring for your wool garments, especially when it comes to removing stains, doesn't have to be a daunting task. By understanding the unique properties of wool fibers and using gentle, effective cleaning methods, you can keep your wool pieces looking fresh and new.

Whether you're using a mix of baking soda and Dawn dish soap or leveraging the natural cleaning power of vinegar, the key is to be gentle and patient. Remember, avoiding harsh chemicals and excessive heat will preserve the integrity of your wool. With these tips, you can confidently tackle any stain and enjoy your favorite wool sweaters for years to come.

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