How to Wash Wool (Merino and Pure Wool): Complete Guide Without Felting.

How to Wash Wool Without Damaging It

Knowing how to wash wool correctly is essential for preserving its softness, shape and quality over time. Whether you are caring for pure wool, merino wool, extrafine or ultrafine wool, or delicate newborn garments, incorrect washing may cause felting, shrinking and loss of elasticity.

In this guide, you will discover how to wash wool by hand or in the washing machine, which mistakes to avoid and how to dry wool garments without damaging them.

Why Does Wool Felt?

Wool is a natural fibre made up of microscopic scales.
When it is exposed to:

• water that is too hot

• sudden temperature changes

• aggressive spin cycles

• excessive rubbing

the fibres become entangled, causing the fabric to felt.

This is why it is important to understand the basic rules for washing wool.

How to Wash Wool by Hand

Hand washing is the gentlest method, although it is not necessarily always the safest.

Correct procedure:

1. Use cold water or water at a maximum temperature of 30°C

2. Add a small amount of detergent specifically formulated for wool

3. Immerse the garment without rubbing it

4. Leave it to soak for only a few minutes

5. Rinse using water at the same temperature

6. Do not wring the garment

7. Gently blot it with a cotton towel

How to Wash Wool in the Washing Machine

Many modern washing machines include a dedicated wool cycle.

Essential rules:

• Select the wool or delicate cycle

• Use a maximum temperature of 30°C

• Choose the lowest possible spin speed

• Use a detergent specifically formulated for delicate fibres

Avoid long cycles and high temperatures.

How to Wash Merino Wool

Extrafine merino wool is more delicate than traditional wool, but it can also be remarkably durable when cared for correctly.

It can be washed:

• by hand

• in the washing machine using the wool cycle

It is important to use detergents specifically formulated for wool garments and not to overload the washing machine drum.

For further advice on washing children’s garments, read our guide on how to wash merino wool clothing for newborn babies.

How to Dry Wool Without Damaging It

Drying is one of the most delicate stages.

✔ Gently blot the garment with a towel
✔ Dry it flat
✔ Avoid hangers, as knitted garments may stretch considerably and lose their shape when hung vertically
✔ Keep away from direct heat sources

Do not tumble dry.

Common Mistakes When Washing Wool

❌ Using water that is too hot
❌ Sudden temperature changes between washing and rinsing
❌ Using an aggressive spin cycle
❌ Wringing the garment
❌ Using detergents that are not suitable for wool

How to Store Wool Garments

Correctly storing garments made from natural fibres such as wool and merino wool is essential for preserving their softness, shape and quality over time. Unlike synthetic fabrics, wool is a living natural fibre that requires a few simple precautions to prevent distortion, dampness and damage caused by moths.

Correct storage also helps preserve the fibre’s thermoregulating properties and natural elasticity.

To preserve wool garments over time:

• Store them only when they are clean and completely dry

• Use breathable cotton storage bags, avoiding sealed plastic packaging

• Avoid damp or poorly ventilated environments

• Protect them from moths using natural solutions such as lavender or cedar

During the seasonal wardrobe change, it is particularly important to store garments carefully.
You can learn more in our dedicated guide on how to store wool garments during the seasonal wardrobe change.

Which Products Should You Use to Wash and Protect Wool?

In addition to the washing method, it is important to choose products suited to the delicate structure of the fibre. Merino wool and pure wool require specific detergents formulated to respect their natural elasticity and preserve softness and quality over time.

An unsuitable detergent may weaken the fibre, make it feel stiffer or alter its structure.

For this reason, it is advisable to use detergents specifically designed for delicate fibres, formulated for low-temperature washing and without aggressive ingredients.

Storage is equally important. During the seasonal wardrobe change, it can be useful to protect garments with natural solutions that help preserve the freshness and quality of the fibres.

Read our dedicated guide to products for caring for wool garments, where you will find advice on specific detergents and delicate fragrances for wardrobes and drawers.

Conclusion

Washing wool correctly means preserving the quality of a natural fibre over time. By following a few simple rules, you can prevent felting and keep garments soft and comfortable.

Caring for wool garments also means recognising the value of a conscious choice: natural fibres designed to last, accompany and protect, especially when they are worn against the sensitive skin of babies and young children.

Quality does not end with the purchase: it continues through the way we care for and preserve what we wear.

Choosing gentle detergents and respecting the correct temperatures is essential, especially for merino wool garments intended for sensitive skin.

Frequently Asked Questions About Washing Wool

At what temperature should wool be washed?

Wool should be washed in cold water or at a maximum temperature of 30°C. Higher temperatures may cause shrinking and felting because natural fibres react to heat and sudden temperature changes. It is important to maintain the same temperature during washing and rinsing, avoiding sudden changes that could place stress on the fibres.

Which spin speed should you use for wool?

When washing wool in the washing machine, use a low or reduced spin speed of no more than 400–600 rpm. An excessively intense spin cycle may distort the garment and compromise the natural elasticity of the fibres.
When the wool programme already includes a gentle spin cycle, there is generally no need to adjust it.

Which detergent should you use to wash wool?

When washing wool, it is essential to use a detergent specifically formulated for delicate fibres or merino wool. Avoid aggressive detergents or products containing bleaching enzymes, as they may alter the structure of the natural fibres.

A good wool detergent should:

• respect the elasticity of the fibres

• preserve softness

• protect colours

• remain effective at low temperatures

Choosing suitable products is an essential part of garment care, especially when washing clothing for newborn babies or people with sensitive skin.

How can you restore a felted wool garment?

Restoring a felted wool garment is difficult and often practically impossible, but in some cases it may be possible to improve its condition.

You can try to:

1. Soak the garment in cold water with a gentle conditioner or a softening product specifically formulated for wool

2. Leave it to soak for approximately 30 minutes

3. Blot it gently without wringing

4. Carefully reshape it while it is still damp

However, felting is often irreversible.
For this reason, prevention — using the correct temperature, a gentle detergent and a low spin speed — remains the best solution.

How can you wash wool without causing felting?

Use cold water or water at a maximum temperature of 30°C, avoid rubbing and aggressive spin cycles, and keep the water temperature consistent between washing and rinsing.

Can wool be washed in the washing machine?

Yes, using the wool or delicate cycle, with a low spin speed and a detergent specifically formulated for wool.

Can merino wool be washed in the washing machine?

Yes, extrafine merino wool can be washed in the washing machine using the wool cycle at 30°C.

Why does wool shrink?

Wool may shrink because of water that is too hot, sudden temperature changes or excessive mechanical movement.

Can fabric softener be used on wool?

No, traditional fabric softener may damage the natural structure of the fibres.

How should a wool garment be dried correctly?

Dry it flat, away from direct heat sources, and never hang the garment while it is wet.