Merino Wool Care Guide: How to Wash and Store Your Pieces

Merino Wool Care Guide: How to Wash and Store Your Pieces

Merino wool has a reputation for being high-maintenance. It isn't, but it does reward a little care with years of great performance. Follow these simple guidelines and your merino pieces will stay soft, hold their shape, and look as good as the day you bought them.

How Often Should You Wash Merino Wool?

Less often than you think. Merino wool is naturally odor-resistant thanks to its unique fiber structure, which inhibits the bacteria that cause smell. After a normal day of wear, airing your piece out overnight is usually enough to freshen it up. Most merino garments only need washing every 3–5 wears, or when visibly soiled.

Machine Washing Merino Wool

Yes, most merino wool can be machine washed - but with the right settings:

  • Use a gentle or wool cycle with cold water (30°C / 86°F or below).
  • Use a mild, wool-safe detergent. Avoid anything with enzymes or bleach, which break down wool fibers.
  • Turn the garment inside out to protect the outer surface.
  • Use a mesh laundry bag to reduce friction and prevent pilling.

Hand Washing (The Safest Option)

For delicate or finely knit pieces, hand washing is the gentlest approach:

  1. Fill a basin with cool water and a small amount of wool-safe detergent.
  2. Submerge the garment and gently agitate - no scrubbing or wringing.
  3. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear.
  5. Gently press out excess water - never twist or wring.

Drying Merino Wool

Heat and agitation are merino wool's two enemies. Avoid both when drying:

  • Never tumble dry on high heat - this causes shrinkage and felting.
  • Lay the garment flat on a clean towel to dry, reshaping it gently while damp.
  • Dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can cause fading and fiber damage.
  • If you use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting for a short cycle only - and only if the care label permits it.

Dealing with Pilling

Pilling is a natural result of friction and doesn't mean your garment is low quality - it actually happens more with higher-quality, finer fibers. To manage it:

  • Use a fabric shaver or lint roller to gently remove pills.
  • Wash inside out and use a mesh bag to reduce friction during washing.
  • Pilling typically decreases after the first few washes as loose fibers work their way out.

Storing Merino Wool

  • Fold, don't hang. Hanging merino wool can stretch it out of shape over time. Fold and store flat in a drawer or on a shelf.
  • Store clean. Wool moths are attracted to body oils and food residue. Always wash before storing for the season.
  • Use cedar or lavender as a natural moth deterrent - avoid mothballs, which can damage fibers and leave a strong odor.
  • For long-term storage, use a breathable cotton bag rather than plastic, which can trap moisture.

Quick Reference

  • ✅ Cold water, gentle cycle
  • ✅ Wool-safe detergent
  • ✅ Lay flat to dry
  • ✅ Fold to store
  • ❌ No hot water
  • ❌ No tumble drying on high heat
  • ❌ No wringing or twisting
  • ❌ No hanging

Treat your merino pieces well, and they'll reward you with seasons of wear. Have questions about caring for a specific MEWOMEE piece? Get in touch - we're happy to help.

Back to blog