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How to Care for Wool Garments and Knitwear: The Complete Guide to Washing Wool

How to Care for Wool Garments and Knitwear: The Complete Guide to Washing Wool

Why Proper Wool Care Matters

Wool is one of nature’s most remarkable fibres. It’s soft, breathable, temperature-regulating, and incredibly durable when cared for properly. Our vintage inspired knitwear is made from high-quality, luxuriously soft Italian merino wool and mohair, carefully crafted in the EU. With the right care, your favourite woollen pieces can last for many years, aging beautifully over time.

Astrid is one of my classic vintage inspired wool cardigans in a beautiful melange brown color.

1. How Often Should You Wash Wool? (Hint: Not Often!)

When someone asks us how often they should wash their wool sweaters, our honest answer is: you probably don’t need to. Wool contains lanolin, a natural wax that repels dirt, odours, and bacteria. That means frequent washing isn’t necessary. In fact, it can even do more harm than good.

Instead, try airing out your wool garments. Simply hang them outside for a few hours. Damp or misty weather works wonders for freshening up wool. You can also hang them in the bathroom while you shower; the steam helps revive the fibres and release wrinkles.

2. How to Wash Wool Garments the Right Way

When a wash is truly needed, if there's a stubborn stain or lingering odour, you must handle your wool gently. Always follow the care label, but here are our best general tips:

  • Hand wash in lukewarm water (max 30°C).

  • Use a mild detergent formulated specifically for wool.

  • If machine washing, select the wool or hand wash cycle with a low spin.

  • Never wring or twist your garment — instead, press out excess water gently while it lies flat on a towel.

Hot water, vigorous spinning, or harsh detergents can damage the fibres and strip away wool’s natural properties.

My vintage inspired pull over, Gertrud, in a vibrant green color perfect for an every day fall outfit. 

3. The Best Way to Dry Wool and Knitwear

After washing, wool should always be dried flat. Lay your garment on a clean towel, reshape it gently to its original form, and let it air dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Replace the towel if it becomes damp.

Avoid hanging wet knitwear, as gravity can stretch the fibres, and tumble drying will cause shrinkage and dryness.
Once fully dry, your sweater may feel slightly snug, but don’t worry, it will quickly relax and shape to your body again as you wear it.

Fair isle print is a classic print in cardigans from the 1940s. Rosemary is my take on a fair isle cardigan in wool. 

4. How to Prevent and Remove Pilling from Wool Sweaters

It’s natural for wool garments to pill a little at first. When wool is spun, shorter fibres sometimes work their way to the surface, especially in areas exposed to friction (like sleeves or underarms).

To remove pills:

  • Use a fabric shaver or a pilling comb, gently gliding it over the surface.

  • Avoid sticky lint rollers, as they can pull out fibres and cause more pilling.

  • A soft clothing brush is perfect for removing dust and keeping the surface smooth.

5. Caring for Mohair Knitwear

Mohair, known for its lightness and lustrous texture, benefits from occasional washing to reduce shedding and maintain its fluffy structure. Wash gently as described above, and once dry, brush lightly with a soft, natural-bristle brush to restore its halo-like finish.

My mohair cardigan, Lisbeth, works perfect as a light summer jacket. 

6. Wool Garments Stretch Over Time - Here’s How to Fix It

Because wool is an organic fibre, your sweater may expand slightly over time. To restore its original shape, simply wash and dry it flat following the recommended steps above.

7. Washing Instructions for Wool Tights

For years, it has been hard to find warm, unique, vintage-style tights for women.
That’s why we decided to create our own wool tights: The Anita tights. The perfect match for your vintage-inspired outfit.

They are made from a soft and warm wool blend and feature a delicate 1940s-style knit pattern.

  • Composition: 80% extra fine merino wool, 17% polyamide, 3% elastane.

  • Wash inside out before first use to strengthen fibres.

  • Machine wash at 30°C on a delicate cycle.

  • Air dry only. Do not bleach, tumble dry, iron, or dry clean.

My Anita tights are based on a pair of original stockings from the 1940s. Here they are shown with my 1940s oxfords, Emily

8. Washing Instructions for Cotton Socks

Our classic bobby socks, Matilda, is made of cotton and based on an original design from the 1940s. They offer both comfort and flexibility for everyday wear.

  • Composition: 80% cotton, 17% polyamide, 3% elastane.

  • Wash inside out before first use.

  • Machine wash at 40°C on a delicate cycle.

  • Air dry only.

My feminine ankle socks, Matilda, are inspired by the teenage fashion of the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s. Here they are shown with Grace, a pair of 1940s two-tone shoes.

Final Wool Care Tips for Long-Lasting Knitwear

Wool is a living, breathing fibre and when treated with care, it rewards you with warmth, comfort, and longevity. Treat your knitwear gently, wash sparingly, and store it well. If you ever have questions about caring for your garment, please don’t hesitate to contact us we’re happy to help.

I hope you will enjoy your memery knitwear for many years to come.

Mette 💕

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