Washing and Care: How to Look After Your Hand-Knits
Wool is a fantastic material that is almost self-cleaning. Here you'll learn how to wash as little as possible, but correctly when you must.
Airing is Washing
Wool contains lanolin which breaks down bacteria. Often, just hanging the garment out to air overnight is enough.
Avoid Temperature Shock
It's not warm water that shrinks wool, but the combination of temperature changes and agitation.
How to Wash Hand-Knits
1. Choose Your Method
If the garment is labeled "Superwash," you can use the machine's wool program. For hand washing: Use lukewarm water (about 30°C/86°F) and plenty of wool detergent.
2. Wash Gently
Gently move the garment in the water. Do not rub or scrub, as this can lead to felting. Rinse in several stages with water that has the same temperature as the wash water.
3. Drying
Carefully lift the garment out of the water. Do not let it hang and drip, as the weight of the water will stretch the fibers. Roll it in a dry towel and step on it to remove excess water. Always dry flat.
Maintenance and Storage
Removing Pills
All knitted garments will pill with use, especially where there is friction. Use a lint remover or a sweater stone to shave away pills, making your garment look new again!
Storage
Knitted garments should never be hung on a hanger, as they will lose their shape. Fold them neatly and store them in a drawer or on a shelf. Use cedar blocks or lavender bags to keep moths away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I wash my wool sweater?
As rarely as possible! Wool is naturally self-cleaning and antibacterial. Hang the garment out to air (preferably in damp weather) to freshen it up. Only wash when it has stains or smells bad.
Can I use fabric softener on wool?
No, you should never use fabric softener on wool or other knitted garments. Fabric softener leaves a coating on the fibers that destroys wool's natural breathability, and it can cause the garment to lose its shape.
Help, my wool sweater has shrunk! Can it be saved?
Maybe! Soak the sweater in lukewarm water with a generous amount of hair conditioner for about 30 minutes. The conditioner helps the wool fibers relax. While it's in the water, you can very gently stretch it. Don't rinse out the conditioner, but gently press the water out in a towel, and carefully block it back into shape before drying flat.