What are the winter essentials for you? Woolen clothes, of course. So, it is our responsibility to take care of our winter wear which keeps us warm and going even in harsh weather. Considering wool is a delicate natural fiber, it is important to be cautious while washing them. Woolens can easily lose their shape and softness if you ignore them. But it’s only natural as many people do not know how to take care of their woolen clothes. They generally end up making washing mistakes or are unaware of proper storage. But these small mistakes can permanently damage your favorite shawls, jackets or sweaters. Today, we are going to tell you about the right care routine so that woolens can last for years, and look as good as new. Read on:Less washing is the key
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Fret not because your woolens are not cotton! It is important to understand that wool does not need frequent or everyday washing. Wool fibers have natural lanolin. It is known for repelling dirt and foul smell. Therefore, washing woolens too often can remove this layer which keeps it protected. Instead, air out your winter clothes after every wear. Hang them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Wash only when visibly dirty.Cold water wash onlyYes, wash your woolen clothes in only cold water. It is a fact that hot water is the biggest enemy of wool. It can cause the clothes to shrink. Now this is irreversible damage. So always wash woolen clothes in cold water. When washing in the machine, select the “wool” or “delicate” option. Choose the right detergent
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Never wash your woolen clothes in regular detergents. Always use a mild and wool-specific detergent. Harsh detergents can harm the woolen fabric. These gentle cleansers clean without breaking down the fibers. Also avoid fabric softeners on wool.Hand wash is safestHand washing is the safest option for delicate woolens. First soak the garment in cold water for a few minutes. Then gently wash in cold water until all soap is gone completely.Dry flatThis is another thing that most people are not aware of. Most people hang their wet woolen clothes. But it can stretch your clothes out of shape. After washing, gently press out excess water using a towel and dry put the garment flat on a dry towel. Store woolens separatelyProper storage is extremely important. After the winter season is gone, store woolen clothes clean. Stained and sweaty clothes attract insects and bacteria. Fold them neatly and keep them a separate breathable cotton bag. Avoid plastic covers.Protect from moths using natural repellentsMoths are the biggest threat to wool. Instead of chemical mothballs, use natural repellents like dried neem leaves, lavender sachets, or cloves wrapped. These keep insects away.Remove pills gently
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Pilling or bobbles are natural in wool because of constant friction and washing. Use a fabric comb or sweater shaver. These are perfect for removing pills gently. Never pull these pills by hand, it can damage the fabric.Using above-mentioned methods, you can preserve their softness, shape, and insulating properties for years. A little extra care goes a long way!