Wearing a wool sweater in winter can keep you warm and textured, but the cleaning and maintenance of wool sweaters give many people a headache. Some people think that wool sweaters can only be dry-cleaned, and do not dare to wash them at home, some people are randomly washed with water or machine wash, resulting in wool sweater shrinkage or deformation. In fact, as long as you master the correct method, wool sweaters and cashmere sweaters can also be cleaned at home, and will not damage the quality and appearance of clothing. Here are some tips on how to clean and maintain wool sweaters.
First, we need to choose the right cleaning solution. Wool is a protein fiber, you can not use strong alkaline detergent, otherwise, it will destroy the structure and elasticity of the fiber. We have to use a mild wool-specific cleaning solution, or a neutral shampoo or body wash. This will effectively remove stains and odors while protecting the luster and softness of the wool.
Next, we have to soak it in warm water. The temperature of the water should not be too high or too low, preferably around 30°C. Too hot or too cold water will cause the wool to shrink or deform. We have to turn the wool sweater over, put it into the water, add an appropriate amount of cleaning solution, and gently stir it well. Do not rub or scrub to avoid stretching or damaging the fibers. Don’t soak for too long, 5 to 10 minutes will do.
Then, we have to gently squeeze. Take your wool sweater out of the water and don’t wring or shake it out, just gently squeeze out the excess water. If it needs to be washed again, change to a bowl of warm water and repeat the steps above. Until the water becomes clear.
Next, we are going to absorb the water with a dry towel. Prepare a large towel and lay it flat on the floor, lay the wool sweater flat on the towel, then gently roll the towel up and squeeze out the water. This can be repeated over and over again until the wool sweater is no longer dripping.
Finally, we have to lay it flat to dry. Woolen sweaters should not be hung to dry, as this will lead to distortion or sagging. We have to use a mesh pocket or drying rack to spread the wool sweater flat and dry it naturally in a ventilated and cool place. Do not expose to the sun or tumble dry to avoid fading or hardening.
If you want to make your wool sweater more neat and beautiful, you can also iron it with a steam-hanging iron. The better-hanging irons usually have a cashmere wool option, which effectively removes creases and sterilizes. Don’t use the iron to directly touch the surface of the wool, as this can damage the fibers and luster.
With these steps, you can easily clean your wool sweater yourself at home. This will not only save you money on dry cleaning but will also take better care of your wool sweaters, keeping them soft, cozy, and warm. I hope this article was helpful, and if you have any other questions, feel free to keep leaving comments!