Care
How to Wash Your Merino Wool: The Ultimate Guide
Updated: June 27, 2025
Merino wool is a game-changer in the world of clothing. Its natural fibres offer exceptional comfort, breathability, and temperature regulation, making it a favourite for travellers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who values quality apparel. But how do you properly care for your Merino wool garments to keep them looking and feeling their best? Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to wash and maintain your Merino wool clothing effortlessly.
Machine Washing Method
Contrary to popular belief, Merino wool is easy to care for and can often be machine-washed. Here’s how:
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Use a Gentle Cycle: Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle. Select cold water to prevent shrinkage or damage.
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Choose the Right Detergent: Opt for a mild, wool-specific detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners, as these can degrade the fibers.
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Turn inside out: For added protection, turn your Merino garments inside out. This minimizes friction and prevents pilling.
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Avoid Overloading: Wash your Merino wool garments separately or with similar lightweight items to avoid unnecessary stress on the fabric.
Hand Washing Method
For those who prefer a more traditional approach, hand washing is an excellent way to care for Merino wool and is especially useful while traveling:
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Fill a Basin or Clean Sink: Use cool water and add a small amount of wool-specific detergent.
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Gently Agitate: Submerge your garment and gently swirl it around to distribute the detergent. Avoid wringing or scrubbing, which can damage the fibres.
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Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin or sink with clean water. Rinse the garment until all detergent is removed.
How to Dry Your Merino Wool
Drying your Merino wool correctly is just as important as washing it:
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Lay Flat to Dry: Place the garment on a clean, dry towel. Roll it up to gently squeeze out excess water, then unroll and reshape the garment.
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Avoid Direct Heat: Lay your Merino wool flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated area. Keep it away from direct sunlight, radiators, or tumble dryers to prevent fading or shrinking.
Why Proper Care Matters
Merino wool is an investment in comfort and durability. By following these washing and drying methods, you can:
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Extend the Lifespan of your clothing
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Maintain the Natural Properties of the fibres
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Keep It Looking Fresh for years to come
Watch the Full Tutorial
For a detailed walkthrough, check out our YouTube tutorial. In this video, we cover:
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00:00 – Introduction
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00:09 – Machine Washing Method
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00:52 – Hand Washing Method
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01:30 – How to Dry
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01:58 – Conclusion
By following these tips, you can enjoy the unparalleled comfort of Merino wool while keeping it in excellent condition. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more helpful tips and tricks from Unbound Merino!
FAQs About Washing Merino Wool
Q: Can I use regular detergent for Merino wool?
A: It’s best to use a wool-specific detergent to protect the fibres and maintain their softness.
Q: Is it safe to tumble dry Merino wool?
A: No, always air dry to avoid shrinkage or damage.
Q: How often should I wash Merino wool clothing?
A: Thanks to its natural odour-resistant properties, Merino wool doesn’t need frequent washing. Wash it only when necessary.
Q: My clothing has some pilling, what do I do?
A. To remove pilling, use a fabric shaver or lint roller to gently remove pills without damaging the fabric. Wash clothes inside out on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, and air-dry to prevent future pilling.
Final Thoughts
Caring for Merino wool is simple when you follow these guidelines. With the right techniques, you can enjoy the exceptional benefits of Merino wool for years to come.
Happy washing!
