Washing wool sweaters after every wear is a mistake - Expert teaches optimal washing frequency and techniques

The season for storing winter clothes has arrived. Knowing how to wash and properly store wool sweaters can be a headache for many. Experts share the optimal washing frequency, correct methods, and storage tips for wool sweaters. A laundry specialist also shares an emergency trick that might help restore shrunken wool sweaters to their original size.

According to an interview with experts from Japan's "Makers Shirt Kamakura" by ‘grapee’, under normal circumstances, wool sweaters only need to be washed about twice throughout the entire winter season. Clothes should be washed when they are slightly soiled, when changing seasons, or when they won't be worn for a long time. Experts also provide correct washing techniques to extend the life of your sweaters:

Wool Sweater Washing Methods

• When washing, always follow the care label instructions inside the garment. If it specifies hand wash, be sure to hand wash it.
• Turning the sweater inside out for washing can help reduce surface abrasion.
• It is recommended to use a gentle spin cycle and after washing, lay it flat to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. This helps maintain the garment's original shape.
• It is advisable to use a neutral detergent. While fabric softener is not essential, it can effectively replenish the natural oils in animal fibers, helping to keep the garment soft and improving wearing comfort.
• Note that using excessive fabric softener can make the fibers too soft, which on the contrary makes them prone to pilling. Therefore, the amount used must be controlled.

How to Store Wool Sweaters?

Experts point out that sweat and sebum (skin oils) can also accumulate on wool sweaters, subsequently affecting the condition of the fibers. Wool sweaters worn during the day should be laid flat, folded for storage. If worn for only a very short time, they can be hung on a hanger to air out. Especially animal hair fibers have natural properties; hanging them to dry helps restore their breathability and stabilize the garment's shape.

As for wool sweaters that have been dry-cleaned, experts advise removing them from the original plastic bag and storing them with moth repellent. Storing them in a well-ventilated place helps maintain the natural texture of the fibers.

Wool Sweater Shrunk After Washing? One Trick Might Help Restore It
If a wool sweater unfortunately shrinks, is there no way to remedy it? According to The Guardian, laundry expert Steve Anderton points out that some professional dry cleaners can use copious amounts of high-temperature steam to help partially relax and restore the garment. He suggests:

• You can try turning the garment inside out and using an iron with a small amount of steam to iron the fabric and seams, maintaining this tension until the fabric cools down. This might help improve the shrinkage.
  Steve Anderton frankly admits that this method is not permanently effective. The extent to which the wool sweater stretches will only last until the next wash, after which the garment will likely shrink again.