Is There a Best Way to Wash Wool Clothing?



Posted: Thursday, April 09, 2009

by Vince Platania
http://www.stanley-home-products.com

Dry clean only, that is what the manufacturer's instruction on most wool clothing reads, and these labels are there for good reason. Often, when washed in water, wool clothing will shrink. This can happen even when the garment is washed by hand. To know the likelihood of your garment being damaged you must consider how the fabric is made.

Because of the way wool sweaters are made they will most commonly shrink. Yarn which is twisted to be bulky and fuzzy will shrink more often than woven yarn which is more compact. Wool suits are often treated during production, this can prevent shrinkage however you must still be careful when washing. The liner in a wool suit is sewn in a manner that may make washing difficult. Even if you are successful in washing without shrinkage the liner may become too wrinkled to wear. Ironing the lining is typically not an option and leaving a crease in wool suit pants is nearly impossible.

If you would like to try washing wool check the label for fibers first. If the garment contains less than 50% real wool you should be okay. If there is more than that you should reconsider. Any wool clothing should be washed in cold water even lower percentage garments are more likely to lose their shape if you use hot water. A washing machine is not advisable for washing wool it should be done by hand. If you insist on using a machine be positive that you have a setting for wool cycle on the machine you are using. Always use a detergent made specifically for wool. Stronger detergents will damage your garments.

If you would like to wash wool by hand try this: Fill a sink with cool/ cold water. Add detergent and mix well. Push clothing into the water do not attempt to work the fabric. Repeat using clean water to rinse. Gently squeeze water out of garment. Do not ring. Fold in towel and press to remove water. Lie flat on a dry towel to dry. Do not place in sunlight this may fade or shrink material.

Now you know the best way to wash wool clothing. To be sure you do not ruin your clothing follow all of the above instructions. If you pay close attention to your task you will save hundreds of dollars on dry cleaning alone.

Author Bio

Stanley Home Products has been in business since 1931, and offers high quality home and personal care products to keep your home and your body clean.
Visit http://www.stanleyhomecare.com or Call #               1-800-992-1089

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