The delicate structure of Merino wool requires careful handling to avoid irreversible felting, which can be caused by using detergents not specifically designed for wool or washing in water that's too hot. Frequent washing, even daily, is recommended especially for garments in direct contact with the skin, as sweat can damage the fibers or leave stains. Contrary to popular belief, true wool allergies don't exist. The discomfort sometimes experienced is caused by the mechanical rubbing of coarse fibers against the skin. Only the finest wool, like that used by Oscalito (with each fiber being 18-18.5 microns in diameter), can prevent this phenomenon. This guide will walk you through the washing, drying, and ironing of your Oscalito garments, ensuring they remain soft and beautiful as the first day.
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How to Wash Merino Wool and Wool-Silk in the Washing Machine?
Regardless of the washing method, it is advisable to turn the garments inside out and keep light-colored garments separate from dark ones both during washing and when they are still wet to avoid color migration.
To wash your wool garments in the washing machine, choose gentle and short cycles, with cold or low-temperature water (maximum 30°C) and a small amount of wool detergent. Preferably use natural and concentrated detergents, which also allow significant plastic savings as the bottle lasts for many more washes.
It is recommended to use a mesh bag to protect the garments from abrasive textile products during the machine wash.
How to Dry Merino Wool and Wool-Silk?
Avoid using the dryer and any other heat sources. Merino wool dries best when laid flat away from direct sunlight to prevent yellowing. Once removed from water or the washing machine, shake the garment, smooth it out, and reshape it to its original dimensions. If it is light, you can hang it lengthwise or lay it flat without folds on a line or flat surface.
How to Iron Merino Wool and Wool-Silk
Iron the silk garment gently inside out while it is still damp, with a warm iron, preferably not directly on the fabric but through a protective cloth. Consider that all knits naturally iron out when in contact with the skin thanks to body heat, which acts like an iron, so you can safely avoid any type of ironing.
How to Store Wool Garments for Long Periods
During seasonal changes, store washed clothes in closed bags and choose the coolest spot in the wardrobe to store wool garments. Ensure there is no residual moisture in the clothes, as improperly washed garments are at risk of moth attacks. Use scented anti-moth products to protect garments from moths, as due to climate change, insects that can feed on wool, a tasty protein for them, are increasingly numerous, unexpected, and unpredictable.
How to Treat Stains on Wool Fabrics
If you decide to treat stains personally, here are some tips for different types of stains. It's important that stains are completely removed before ironing, as the heat from the iron can permanently set them.
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Alcoholic Beverages: Dab lightly with an absorbent cloth to remove as much liquid as possible. Sponge with warm water and denatured alcohol in equal parts.
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Black Coffee: Mix alcohol and white vinegar in equal parts, then dab the stained area with a cloth soaked in the solution before pressing lightly with an absorbent cloth.
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Chocolate/Coffee with Milk/Tea: Dab the edge of the stain with a cloth soaked in ethyl alcohol, then follow the instructions for black coffee.
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Eggs/Milk: Gently rub with a cloth soaked in ethyl alcohol. Repeat with a cloth soaked in diluted white vinegar.
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Fruit/Fruit Juice/Red Wine: Dab the stain with denatured alcohol and water (three to one ratio).
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Grass: Carefully apply soap (bar or soap flakes) or gently rub with a cloth soaked in denatured alcohol.
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Ink/Ballpoint Pen: Gently rub with a cloth soaked in ethyl alcohol. Repeat with a cloth soaked in diluted white vinegar or denatured alcohol.
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Lipstick/Foundation/Nail Polish: Gently rub with a cloth soaked in turpentine or stain remover spray. Rinse with warm soapy water.
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Blood: Quickly dab the stain with a damp sponge to remove excess blood. Gently rub with undiluted white vinegar, then dab with cold water.
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Butter/Grease/Sauces: If a grease stain forms, first scrape the surface with a spoon or knife to remove the excess. Then dab the area with a cloth soaked in suitable dry-cleaning fluid or ethyl alcohol. Gently rub.