Woollen wisdom: Top tips for lasting warmth and care

Although extremely durable, wool requires delicate care. Washing too often or using harsh detergents can lead to permanent damage. Check out how to care for woolen clothes to enjoy them for many winter seasons.

The foundation of wool care is to avoid washing too often. Unlike other fabrics, wool does not need frequent contact with water to stay fresh. However, it's worth using gentle detergents or baby shampoo when you decide to wash it.

It’s best to wash woolen clothes with lukewarm water. Too high a temperature may cause the material to lose its properties. When choosing a washing machine program, it's advisable to select one dedicated to delicate fabrics. This minimizes the risk of damaging your favorite wardrobe items.

Hand washing is the best method for delicate woolen items. Gently knead the fabric, avoiding aggressive rubbing, to preserve its structure. Conclude this process by gently pressing out excess water—ideally by placing the sweater between two layers of towels and lightly pressing.

Drying woolen clothes requires as much attention as washing them. It's best to avoid tumble dryers and hanging wet sweaters, as they might stretch under their weight. The ideal method is to lay the woolen garment flat on a towel to maintain its original shape.

Never use high heat for drying. Avoid hanging wet woolen clothing on a radiator as it can cause shrinking and fiber damage. Proper storage of wool is also crucial for its care. Store your favorite sweaters in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, to prevent color and elasticity loss.

Keeping wool in excellent condition daily requires consistency and caution. Regularly checking the condition of clothes allows for the quick detection of any damage or pilling. Also, remember not to cram woolen garments into tight spaces.

Woolen clothes do well in spacious closets where they can "breathe." To avoid troublesome pests like moths, you can use natural repellents like sachets with dried lavender. This simple trick protects the wool and gives it a pleasant, floral scent.

Caring for woolen clothing doesn't have to be challenging if you follow the above tips. Gentle washing, proper drying, and storage are keys to enjoying wool's softness and durability over many seasons.