How to Wash Wool
What You'll Need
- 1 tsp
- Basin full
- 2
- 1
Step-by-Step Method
Use cool water only. Wool shrinks (felts) when exposed to heat, agitation, or sudden temperature changes. Add 1 tsp wool wash or baby shampoo.
Gently push the garment under the water. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes. Do not agitate, twist, or wring. Let the detergent do the work.
Drain soapy water. Refill with clean cool water at the same temperature. Press the garment gently to push soapy water out. Repeat until water runs clear.
Lift the garment out supporting its weight (do not lift by shoulders). Lay flat on a clean towel, roll up, and press gently. Unroll onto a fresh dry towel.
Reshape the garment to its original dimensions while damp. Dry flat on a towel or drying rack. Never hang wool (it stretches irreversibly when wet).
- Never put wool in the dryer (guaranteed shrinkage)
- Never hang wet wool to dry (stretches permanently)
- Never use hot water (causes felting)
- Never wring or twist (distorts shape)
- Never use regular laundry detergent (too alkaline for wool protein fibers)
- Wool does not need frequent washing. Air out between wears and spot-clean small marks.
- Store clean wool with cedar blocks to deter moths. Moths are attracted to body oils on unwashed wool.
- A fabric shaver removes pills without damaging the garment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wool fibers have microscopic scales. Heat and agitation cause these scales to interlock permanently (felting). Once felted, the process cannot be reversed. Always use cool water and never agitate.
Yes, dry cleaning is safe for wool and is the easiest option for structured garments like blazers and coats. For sweaters and casual wool items, hand washing is gentler and cheaper.
Sources & Methodology
Wool care based on textile science. Wool is a protein fiber (keratin) with microscopic scales that interlock irreversibly under heat and agitation (felting).
Last reviewed: March 20, 2026