Washing wool - Tips for the proper handling of the natural product
In the world of textiles, virgin wool captivates with its unique properties. It is not only warm and soft, but also almost self-cleaning. However, this very feature raises the question for many people of how to wash and properly care for virgin wool without compromising its natural advantages.
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about washing and caring for wool to extend the lifespan and functionality of your wool products.
Table of contents:
- Washing wool – Basic tips and information
- This is how to wash wool properly
- When it can go in the washing machine – with caution
- Conclusion – Care for Sheep's Wool
- High-quality products made from sheep shearing wool by MedSalus
Washing wool – Basic tips and information
Sheep wool is a remarkable natural product that stands out due to its self-cleaning properties and durable structure. To make the most of these natural advantages and extend the lifespan of your sheep wool products, it is crucial to understand and apply the right care. In this section, we will provide you with basic tips and information to help you care for sheep wool and wash it gently when needed, in order to preserve its unique properties.
Can you even wash sheep's wool?
Virgin wool has natural self-cleaning properties that set it apart from many other materials. This property is due to lanolin, a natural wool fat, which coats and protects the fibers. Thanks to this barrier, virgin wool is naturally water- and dirt-repellent. This means that in many cases it does not need to be washed at all. A simple airing is often enough to eliminate unpleasant odors. Therefore, a complete wash should only be done rarely and with care.
If you want to learn more about the benefits of virgin wool, visit our article and discover more useful tips.
Proper care and cleaning of wool
The care of sheep's wool begins long before the actual washing. Airing is the key. Hang your products outside regularly to refresh them. This way, you can remove dirt particles and odors without stressing the wool. To further care for the fibers, you can use lavender sachets. Lavender not only has a pleasant scent but also keeps moths away.
"It is important to understand that the care also depends on what you intend to do with the wool. When buying sheep wool, one should therefore pay attention to the quality that matches the intended use."
Hand washing as the best method
Hand washing is the gentlest method to clean wool when washing is really necessary.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Fill a sink or a tub with lukewarm water and add a suitable wool detergent.
- "Place the wool product in water and gently press it without wringing or rubbing."
- Let it soak for about 10 minutes so that the detergent can take effect.
- Rinse the wool thoroughly with clear, lukewarm water until all soap residues are removed.
- Gently press out excess water without twisting the wool.
One should pay attention to that.
Water temperature is crucial when it comes to washing wool. Water that is too hot can damage the fibers and cause the wool to shrink. Always use lukewarm water to avoid this. A mild wool detergent is also important to avoid stressing the delicate fibers. After washing, you should gently press the wool with a towel to remove excess water. Avoid wringing as this can affect the shape of the wool. Let the wool dry flat in the air to maintain its shape.
When it can go in the washing machine – with caution
In some cases (when absolutely necessary), virgin wool can be washed in the washing machine, but only with extreme caution. Use a wool wash cycle at a low temperature and ensure that the spin speed is very low to avoid damaging the fibers. Nevertheless, machine washing remains a risk to the structure and softness of the wool and should be the exception. Further information on this can be found in our article "Virgin Wool in the Washing Machine?!".
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Conclusion – Care for Sheep's Wool
Virgin wool is a wonderful natural product that can bring joy for many years with the right care. To preserve the natural properties of virgin wool, regular airing is essential, as it helps keep the fibers fresh and neutralizes odors. Virgin wool products should only be washed in case of emergency, and it is important to use mild wool detergents and avoid machine washing to prevent damaging the structure of the fibers. Avoiding direct sunlight protects the wool from fading and maintains its natural color brilliance. Proper storage also plays a crucial role: Store your wool items in a dry, well-ventilated place, preferably in breathable bags, to protect them from pests. With proper care, virgin wool remains not only soft and shape-retaining but also durable. These careful maintenance steps help increase the performance and lifespan of the products, making virgin wool a sustainable and valuable choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
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High-quality products made from sheep shearing wool by MedSalus
MedSalus offers a selection of high-quality sheep wool products with their collection, specifically designed for comfort and durability – starting from duvets, pillows to underlays and sets for children.
sheep's wool duvet
The woolhome pure wool duvet is characterized by its excellent temperature regulation. Our 100% natural duvet, filled with finest sheep wool, provides warmth in winter and remains pleasantly cool in summer. Its natural breathability supports temperature regulation during sleep, while its soft texture ensures an incomparably cozy feeling. This duvet is ideal for those who value restful sleep.
Cushion made of sheep's wool
The pillow from MedSalus is filled with pure sheep's wool and offers optimal sleeping comfort. Thanks to the natural elasticity and flexibility of the wool, the pillow adapts ideally to the contours of the head and neck, preventing pressure points and promoting a healthy sleeping position. Sheep's wool is also known for its excellent breathability and moisture regulation, contributing to a dry and pleasant sleeping climate. The antibacterial properties of the wool prevent the growth of house dust mites, making the pillow particularly suitable for allergy sufferers. These characteristic features make the MedSalus pillow a sustainable choice for discerning sleepers.
Discover how our sheep wool pillows improve sleeping comfort through natural materials,
Underbed made of sheep's wool
The woolhome virgin wool underlay is the perfect addition to any sleeping environment. By using natural virgin wool, it not only provides extra cushioning but also temperature-regulating properties. It is breathable and keeps the sleeping area fresh and comfortable.
The unique advantages of MedSalus's wool products
The MedSalus woolhome products seamlessly combine the comfort and unique properties of virgin wool with excellent craftsmanship, offering quality and sustainable sleep comfort. The high-quality sheep virgin wool products from MedSalus, including duvets, pillows, and mattress toppers, are carefully crafted to maximize the natural benefits of Moroccan sheep virgin wool in Merino quality, which is ethically sourced and cruelty-free.
Visit our online shop to explore our range, invest in durable quality, and enjoy the unparalleled warmth and comfort that only virgin wool provides.
FAQ
How does wool clean itself?
To ensure the cleanliness and freshness of wool bedding, it is sufficient to air them regularly (in the shade). The lanolin contained in the wool fibers forms a natural barrier that repels dirt and odors, making the care of the bedding easier. Optionally, the bedding can occasionally be exposed to humid air, such as after a rain shower, to achieve an additional cleaning effect. Washing should only be done in exceptional cases to secure the longevity and quality of the wool products. For more detailed information on hygiene, please visit our website: MedSalus Hygiene.
Is 100% virgin wool washable?
Yes, 100% virgin wool is washable, but with caution and preferably by hand to protect the fibers. Virgin wool contains lanolin, which repels dirt and odors. Frequent washing or machine washing can remove this natural wool wax and damage the fibers. Thanks to its self-cleaning properties, regular airing is often sufficient, so frequent washing is not necessary.
Should one have wool cleaned chemically?
It is not recommended to have wool dry cleaned, as aggressive chemicals can damage the fibers and the natural lanolin. Due to its self-cleaning properties, wool remains naturally clean. Instead, you should gently hand wash or regularly air out the wool.
If you still wish to have your wool cleaned at a dry cleaner, make sure that the cleaner specializes in wool products. The cover of the MedSalus products is made of untreated cotton and is OEKO-Tex certified. For small stains, it is recommended to use a biological stain remover.