Step 1: The Initial Inspection
Begin by laying your woollens on a flat, clean surface in a well-lit room. The first thing to check for is damage, particularly from moths. These pests are drawn to natural fibres, and tiny, hard-to-spot holes are the tell-tale sign of their presence.
Gently stretch the fabric to make any small holes more apparent. If you find any, they should be mended before washing to prevent them from getting bigger. Next, give your garments a sniff. A musty or stale odour is common after storage, especially if they were put away before being completely clean. Don't worry, as this can usually be remedied with simple airing or a gentle wash. Finally, check for any stains you may have missed before packing them away. Addressing these issues first sets you up for a successful refresh.
Step 2: Airing Out and Freshening Up
For woollens that are otherwise clean but smell a bit stale, a full wash may not be necessary. Wool has natural anti-bacterial and odour-resistant properties. Often, simply hanging your garments outdoors in a shaded, breezy spot for several hours can work wonders. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause colours to fade. If the smell persists, you can use a handheld steamer or even hang the item in the bathroom while you shower; the steam helps to relax the fibres and release odours. For stubborn musty smells, placing the garment in an enclosed space with an open container of baking soda or activated charcoal can help absorb unwanted scents. Never store wool in airtight plastic containers, as this can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
Step 3: The Gentle Wash
If a wash is required, always check the care label first. For most knitwear, hand-washing is the safest method. Fill a clean sink or basin with lukewarm water (around 30°C) and add a small amount of a mild, wool-safe detergent. Turn your garment inside out and submerge it, gently squeezing the water through the fabric. Avoid any aggressive rubbing or wringing, as this can cause the fibres to felt or stretch. Let it soak for about 10-15 minutes. Afterwards, drain the soapy water and rinse the garment thoroughly, first with lukewarm water and then with cool water, until all the suds are gone.
