Fortunately, you don't need to wash merino wool often. The fibres absorb odours less quickly than many other materials, so airing is usually enough. Is your merino jumper, top or thermal wear ready for a wash after all? Then wash it carefully according to the care label, with little friction and a mild detergent. That way you prevent shrinking, felting, stretching and a stiff feel.
Whether you want to wash merino wool in the washing machine or prefer hand washing: with the right temperature, the right programme and a gentle drying method, your clothes stay soft, attractive and functional for longer.
How often should you wash merino wool?
You only need to wash merino wool when it's visibly dirty, has a stain or no longer smells fresh. After wearing, first hang a merino garment on a hanger or drying rack outdoors. Avoid strong, prolonged sunlight, as this can affect the colour.
By washing less often, the natural structure of the wool fibre is better preserved. That's not only good for your clothes, but also saves water, energy and detergent. Merino tops, jumpers and cardigans that you don't wear directly against the skin in particular can often be worn several times before they need washing. Want to save more? Read our guide on energy-efficient washing.
Washing merino wool in the washing machine
Many modern merino garments can go in the washing machine, but always check the care label first. Not every garment is finished in the same way. Does it say machine washing is allowed? Then use a wool or delicates programme with a low temperature and limited spinning.
Step-by-step plan for washing merino wool in the washing machine
- Check the care label of your merino garment.
- Sorting your laundry helps you keep merino wool separate from heavy fabrics such as jeans, towels and clothes with zips.
- Turn the jumper, top or leggings inside out.
- Close zips and buttons to limit friction.
- Use a wool or delicates programme of no more than 30 degrees.
- Add a small amount of liquid wool detergent.
- Choose a low spin setting, preferably no more than 400 to 600 rpm if the care label allows it.
- Take the garment out of the machine as soon as the programme has finished.
A laundry bag can offer extra protection, especially for thin merino tops, underwear or clothes with delicate details. Don't overfill the drum: enough space limits friction and helps prevent felting.
Which detergent should you use for merino wool?
Choose a mild liquid wool detergent without bleach, optical brighteners or aggressive enzymes. Regular detergent can be too strong for animal fibres, which can make merino wool less soft or wear out faster. It's also best not to use fabric softener. It can leave a coating on the fibres and is usually not necessary for wool.
Washing merino wool by hand
Hand washing is a safe choice for washing a merino wool jumper, especially if the care label advises against machine washing. The most important rule is not to rub, scrub or wring hard. Strong friction can make the tiny scales of wool fibres interlock, which causes felting.
Also read our practical tips for washing a wool jumper.
Hand washing merino wool in 6 steps
- Fill a clean bowl or sink with lukewarm water of no more than 30 degrees.
- Add a small amount of wool detergent and gently mix it into the water.
- Place the garment in the water and gently press it under.
- Move the wool gently through the water without twisting or scrubbing.
- After a few minutes, rinse with water of about the same temperature.
- Gently press the water out of the fabric without wringing.
Large temperature differences can put strain on the fibres. So use water of roughly the same temperature for washing and rinsing. Also don't let merino wool soak for long, unless the care label explicitly says so.
Drying merino wool without stretching
Preferably don't put merino wool in the dryer, unless the garment label explicitly states that it's allowed. High heat and movement can cause shrinking, felting and loss of shape. The safest method is drying flat.
Lay your merino garment flat on a clean, dry towel. Carefully roll up the towel with the garment inside to remove excess water. Then lay the garment flat on a drying rack or a fresh dry towel and gently reshape it. Don't hang a wet merino jumper on a hanger, because the weight of the water can stretch it.
Why does my merino wool smell after washing?
Does merino wool smell less fresh than expected after washing? Then detergent may have been left behind in the fibres, the garment may have dried too slowly or the washing machine itself may not have been completely clean. Use less detergent than you're used to and make sure your merino clothing is rinsed well.
After washing, let the garment dry quickly and flat in a well-ventilated room. Does your washing machine smell musty? Then clean the rubber seal, the detergent drawer and the filter according to the manufacturer's instructions. A clean machine helps prevent odours from lingering on delicate clothes.
Common mistakes when washing merino
- Washing too warm: warm water increases the risk of shrinking and felting.
- Spinning hard: a high spin speed can deform wool and put extra strain on the fibres.
- Rubbing or wringing: this can make merino wool felt and feel stiff.
- Washing with heavy clothes: zips, jeans and towels cause more friction.
- Hanging it up wet: a heavy, wet garment can stretch.
- Skipping the care label: brands and garments can have different care instructions.
Caring for merino wool between washes
Good merino wool care starts with washing less. Air your clothes after wearing and remove small stains as quickly as possible. Gently dab a stain with cold water and, if needed, use a small amount of wool detergent. Don't rub the fabric hard, as this can make the spot fade or felt.
Store merino wool clean and completely dry, preferably folded rather than on a hanger. For long-term storage, a closable storage box or garment bag is handy. This helps protect your clothes from dust and moths.
Frequently asked questions about washing merino wool
Can merino wool go in the washing machine?
Yes, many merino garments can go in the washing machine on a wool or delicates programme of no more than 30 degrees. Always check the care label first. Use a mild wool detergent and a low spin setting, and don't wash merino wool together with heavy clothes. Also take a look at the general guidelines for washing wool.
How do I wash 100% wool in the washing machine?
Only wash 100% wool in the washing machine if the care label allows it. Choose a wool programme, wash at no more than 30 degrees, use wool detergent and limit the spin. Drying flat is generally the safest choice.
Should you wash merino wool cold?
You usually wash merino wool at no more than 30 degrees. Washing cold is also fine if the care label recommends it. More important than washing exactly cold is avoiding big temperature changes, hard friction and high heat.
Can you wash a Joe Merino jumper?
Always wash a Joe Merino jumper according to the label in the jumper. Follow the prescribed wash programme, maximum temperature and drying instructions for the garment. The general rules for merino wool, such as washing gently and drying flat, remain a good starting point.
How should you wash Icebreaker merino?
For washing Icebreaker merino, the same applies: check the care label of the specific garment. Wash inside out, use a gentle programme and avoid bleach and fabric softener. Preferably let merino clothing air-dry according to the instructions on the label.
Can you iron merino wool?
Ironing is usually not necessary. If you want to reduce creases, use a low wool setting and place a thin cloth between the iron and the fabric. Always check the care label first. Steam can help, but don't hold the iron in one spot for long.
