How to Wash a Wool Sweater Without Any Risk

Introduction

A wool sweater is a gem in the closet. It requires adapted maintenance to preserve the quality of the fabric. This way, the sweater will be able to warm you for many years.

Incorrect care can damage your wool sweater. Inappropriate washing may cause the sweater to shrink or deform, or cause pilling. Fortunately, we are going to give you all the advice to avoid these bad surprises.

At The Oversized Hoodie®, we believe that each wool sweater is a work of art, deserving of special attention and care. By adopting good washing practices, you not only preserve the beauty of your sweater, but you also contribute to a more sustainable world, where each garment is cherished and lasts for years.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

Also read: what are the differences between a sweater and sweatshirt?

Washing methods

Hand wash

Preparation

Preparing for hand washing starts with creating your wash solution. Fill a basin with cold water.

Then add a small dose of detergent. Make sure the detergent is specifically designed for wool so as not to damage the fabric.

Wool machine washing process

Once the solution is ready, it is time to wash the wool sweater. Gently immerse the sweater in the soapy water. Let it soak for a few minutes to loosen the dirt.

stains can be stubborn. In this case, use a soft cloth soaked in Marseille soap to remove them. Rub gently so as not to damage the fragile fibers of the sweater.

Drying

Drying is a crucial step in caring for a wool sweater. It is important to remember that wool does not tolerate heat sources.

Drying must therefore always be done in the open air. Lay the sweater flat on a cotton towel to absorb moisture. Be careful not to twist or wring the sweater to avoid deforming it.

Also read: when and how to wash your sweatshirt?

Machine wash

Preparation

Machine washing a wool sweater requires some precautions. First of all, place the wool sweater in a laundry net. This helps protect the sweater from chafing during the wash cycle.

To preserve the fragile fibers of your sweater, use a special wool detergent. It's a gentler option compared to traditional detergents.

Choice of wool program in machine

The choice of washing program is essential. Select a program for delicate textiles or a special wool program. These programs use reduced revolutions per minute during spinning to avoid damage to the sweater.

The use of cold water is recommended. Indeed, hot water can cause the sweater to shrink. Additionally, add a few drops of white vinegar to the fabric softener drawer to make the wool softer.

Drying

Just like washing by hand, drying must be done in the open air. Lay the sweater flat on a cotton towel to absorb excess water. Avoid twisting or wringing the sweater to avoid deforming it.

Also read: How to shrink a sweatshirt?

Washing details depending on the material

The care of a wool sweater may vary depending on the material. Whether mohair, alpaca or angora, each type of wool has its specificities.

How to wash a mohair wool sweater?

Mohair is a delicate fiber that requires specific maintenance. To wash a mohair wool sweater, it is recommended to wash it by hand with a gentle detergent.

After washing, dry the sweater flat away from a heat source. This will preserve the softness and suppleness of the fiber.

Also read: How to wash and maintain a cashmere sweater?

How to wash an alpaca wool sweater?

Alpaca is a luxurious material that requires special care. To wash an alpaca wool sweater, it is best to wash it by hand in cold water with a special wool detergent.

Once washed, spinning must be carried out carefully. Roll the sweater in a cotton towel to absorb water, but avoid wringing it. For drying, it is recommended to leave it in the open air, flat, so that it retains its initial shape.

How to wash an angora wool sweater?

The angora wool sweater is particularly fragile. hand washing is required, and this, with a special wool detergent. The sweater should be immersed in cold water, then gently scrubbed to avoid breaking the fibers.

Once clean, the angora must be dried flat on a cotton towel. It is also recommended to put it in the open air so that it dries naturally.

Also read: what are the most luxurious fabrics?

Additional tips

Choice of detergent

The choice of detergent has a significant impact on the lifespan of your wool sweater. Use a special wool detergent to wash your sweater. It is gentler on fragile fibers.

Using white vinegar for wool

white vinegarwhite vinegar is a precious ally for the maintenance of wool**. In addition to neutralizing odors, it softens the fiber and preserves the colors of the garment. Add a few drops of white vinegar to your rinse water to benefit from its benefits.

No tumble dryer for wool

The tumble dryer should be banned for wool sweaters. The latter generates heat which can cause the sweater to shrink and deform. Prefer to air dry, with the sweater laid flat on a cotton towel.

Wash wool with shampoo

It may seem surprising, but shampoo can be used to wash wool. As wool is an animal fiber, just like our hair, the shampoo is gentle on it and does not damage the fibers. Opt for a gentle, silicone-free shampoo.

Pilling prevention

Pilling is a common problem with wool sweaters. To avoid them, wash your sweater inside a pillowcase or a laundry net. This limits friction during machine washing.

3 guides are at your disposal on this subject:

• is it normal for a sweater to pill?
• What pilling material?
• How to remove pills?

Conservation of the sweater

After washing, fold your sweater carefully to store it. Avoid hanging it to prevent it from becoming deformed. Finally, keep your wool sweater away from heat and direct light to preserve its color and shape.

Conclusion

It is crucial to properly wash and maintain your wool sweaters so that they keep their shape and softness. Whether you choose hand wash or machine wash, always remember to be gentle.

In reality, caring for a wool sweater is not as complex as it seems. With these tips, you will be able to preserve the beauty and softness of your wool sweaters: your sweater will stay like new for many years.

We know that every wool sweater you own carries a story, a precious memory. By following the tips and tricks shared in this article, you will ensure that these stories continue to live on, wrapped in the unparalleled softness and comfort that only well-maintained wool can provide.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

FAQ

How to wash a wool sweater in the washing machine?

It is possible to wash a wool sweater in the washing machine, using a program for delicate textiles or a special wool program. Use a special wool detergent and place the sweater in a laundry net to protect it.

How to wash a wool sweater without it shrinking?

To prevent your wool sweater from shrinking, follow these tips: avoid hot water when washing and prefer cold water. Also, don't twist the sweater to wring it out. Finally, dry the sweater in the open air and flat.

What product to wash a wool sweater?

The ideal way to wash a wool sweater is to use a special wool detergent. These detergents are generally gentler and less aggressive for the fragile fibers of wool.

How to wash a sweater by hand?

Washing a wool sweater by hand is quite simple. Start by filling a basin with cold water and add a small dose of special wool detergent. Then, submerge the sweater and scrub it gently. To dry, lay the sweater flat on a cotton towel.

Wool spin how many turns?

The spinning of a wool sweater should be as gentle as possible. We recommend not exceeding 600 rpm. This helps preserve the shape and quality of the sweater.

Which detergent for wool?

The special wool detergent is the best option for washing a wool sweater. It is designed to be gentle with the delicate fibers of the wool and thus preserves the softness and quality of the sweater.

At what temperature should wool be washed?

Washing wool must always be done in the open air. Hot water may cause the sweater to shrink. Therefore prefer a cold or lukewarm temperature, ideally below 30°C.

What spin speed for wool?

The spin speed for a wool sweater must be limited to 600 revolutions per minute. Higher spin speeds may damage the fibers and deform the sweater.

Mis à jour le 28 décembre 2023