Do's and Dont's for Washing Woollen Clothes at Home

Woollen clothes are warm, soft, and cozy — perfect for chilly winters. But they also require special care, especially when washing. Hand-knitted or machine-made, woollens are delicate and can easily shrink, lose shape, or get damaged if not treated properly. To help you preserve the softness and longevity of your winter wear, here are the essential dos and don’ts for washing woollen clothes at home.

Do's for Washing Woollen Clothes

1. Read the Care Label

Before washing any woollen item, check the label for specific instructions. Some garments may only be suitable for dry cleaning or handwashing.

2. Use Cold or Lukewarm Water

Wool can shrink in hot water. Always use cold or lukewarm water (not more than 30°C) to avoid any damage.

3. Use a Mild Wool-Friendly Detergent

Use a detergent specially formulated for wool or mild baby shampoo. Harsh detergents can strip the natural oils from the fibres.

4. Turn Garments Inside Out

Turning sweaters and cardigans inside out before washing helps protect the surface from pilling and wear.

5. Gently Hand Wash or Use Wool Cycle

For best results, hand wash your woollens in a basin with gentle swirls. If you must use a machine, opt for the wool or delicate cycle with minimal spin.

6. Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse your clothes with clean cold water until all detergent is removed. Leftover soap can weaken the fibres.

7. Dry Flat

Lay woollen clothes flat on a clean towel and reshape them to their original form. Let them air dry in the shade, avoiding direct sunlight or hanging (which can cause stretching).

Dont's for Washing Woollen Clothes

1. Don’t Use Hot Water

Hot water is wool’s worst enemy — it causes shrinkage and distortion of the fibres.

2. Don’t Rub or Scrub

Avoid harsh scrubbing or wringing. Wool is delicate and friction can cause it to felt, pill, or lose shape.

3. Don’t Use Bleach or Harsh Detergents

Bleach can severely damage wool fibres. Stick to pH-neutral or wool-safe detergents.

4. Don’t Tumble Dry

Never use a dryer for woollens. The high heat can shrink and ruin your garment permanently.

5. Don’t Hang Wet Woollen Clothes

Hanging wool while wet will stretch the fabric and distort the shape of the garment. Always dry flat.

6. Don’t Soak for Too Long

Extended soaking can weaken wool fibres. Keep the wash time short (5–10 minutes is enough).

Bonus Tip: How to Freshen Woollens Without Washing

If your sweater just needs a quick refresh, hang it in a steamy bathroom or use a garment steamer. You can also sprinkle a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil to eliminate odours naturally.

Final Thoughts

Washing your woollen clothes at home doesn’t have to be a challenge. With a little extra care and the right methods, you can keep your sweaters, shawls, and scarves looking fresh and soft for many winters to come. Follow these simple dos and don’ts and let your woollens last for years — just as cozy and beautiful as the day you bought them.