How Do I Care for Wool Clothing?

We have been wearing wool for thousands of years, yet things can still go wrong sometimes… Your friends, colleagues and family members may all have well-meant advice, but what if that advice is contradictory or outdated? In this blog, we share practical guidelines for caring for different types of wool clothing:

How do I care for a wool suit or blazer?

To enjoy your wool suit for years to come, a sturdy clothes hanger, preferably one with wide shoulders, is essential. Hang your suit outside or in a well-ventilated room after wearing it. Make sure the buttons are fastened to help maintain its shape. You can also freshen up your suit easily with a handheld steamer. The steam removes wrinkles and odours without putting stress on the fibres. Does it need a thorough clean? Then it is best to take it to a professional dry cleaner.

Tip: When buying a new suit, get an extra pair of trousers straight away. Trousers tend to wear out twice as fast as a blazer.

How do I care for wool sweaters?

At Suitable, you will find a wide range of wool sweaters: from firm and thick to light and supple, such as super-soft lambswool or luxurious merino wool. Each type of wool requires slightly different care. That is why you should always check the care label inside your sweater first. It contains specific instructions for preserving its quality. In many cases, however, washing is not necessary at all. Wool is naturally self-cleaning. Hanging it outside in the fresh air overnight is usually enough.

Please note: For heavier sweaters, avoid using a hanger. Instead, lay them flat or place them on a drying rack to prevent the shoulders from stretching.

How do I hand wash a wool sweater?

1. Fill a sink or bucket with lukewarm water (around 20–30°C).
2. Dissolve a small amount of special wool detergent in the water.
3. Place the garment in the water and gently press it down. Let it soak for no more than 5 minutes.
4. Gently rub dirty spots or stains with your fingers.
5. Rinse the garment thoroughly with lukewarm water (around 20–30°C) to remove all soap residue. Repeat until the water runs clear.
6. Roll the sweater in a towel and press out the moisture. Never wring it out.

Can a wool sweater go in the washing machine?

Yes, provided your washing machine has a dedicated wool programme. Also keep the following in mind:

• A maximum of 600 rpm during spinning.
• Always use a laundry bag to prevent the drum from damaging the fibres.
• Never wash warmer than 30°C, or choose the cold setting.

Extra tip: A wool sweater can sometimes smell musty after washing. That is why it is important to let the sweater dry in a well-ventilated room. Still not smelling fresh afterwards? Hang it outside to air, but not in direct sunlight. Natural fibres absorb odours quickly, but also release them again when they can breathe.

How do I dry wool clothing?

After washing, it is important to dry your wool clothing properly. This helps prevent shrinking or distortion. The following approach works best:

• Gently press excess water out of the garment like a sponge, without wringing.
• Use a clean towel and roll the garment in it first to absorb extra moisture.
• While the wool is still damp, gently reshape it and straighten the seams.
• Lay it flat on a drying rack on top of a dry towel, away from sunlight and radiators.

Please note: Never use a tumble dryer. Even on a low setting, wool can quickly felt or lose its shape.

Can I iron wool clothing?

Yes, but with care. Wool is a delicate fibre that can shrink or become damaged at high temperatures. Here are some important tips:

• • Set your iron to the wool setting (low temperature with steam).
  • Preferably use a pressing cloth or turn the garment inside out.
  • Do not press too hard and keep the iron hovering lightly if you are using steam.
  • Let the garment dry flat after washing to prevent creasing.

How do I treat pilling?

Over time, small balls of fluff, also known as pills, may appear on wool due to friction. This is a natural process and not a sign of poor quality. Use a wool comb or a fabric shaver to remove them carefully.

What should I do about stains?

Do you notice a stain? Dab it immediately with cold water, preferably using a clean cloth. Do not rub, as this will only push the stain deeper into the fibres. For stubborn stains, it is best to use a mild wool detergent, possibly diluted. Apply it locally, leave it on briefly, and rinse carefully with cold water. Then let the garment dry flat. Does that not help? Take it to a professional dry cleaner.

Extra tip: Avoid hot water, bleach or regular stain removers.

How do I protect wool clothing from pests?

Wool clothing is often a target for pests. Moth larvae in particular can cause irreversible damage. They are not only attracted to the wool itself, but especially to traces of skin oils, sweat and invisible food residue. With the right precautions, you can keep your wardrobe safe:

• Wash your wool garment or air it thoroughly before storing it for a longer period.
• Moths dislike certain scents. Use cedarwood (blocks or rings) or lavender sachets in your wardrobe.
• Use airtight storage bags or properly sealable plastic storage boxes. This prevents moths from reaching the clothing.