How to Wash Merino Wool Without Shrinking It

Merino wool is a fantastic material for cold climates. It keeps you warm when it's cold, breathes when temperatures rise and stays fresh longer than many other materials. But for a merino garment to keep its shape, softness and performance, it needs the right care.

The good news is that merino wool often needs washing less often than you might think. In many cases, airing it out between wears is enough. When it is time to wash, it's mainly temperature, detergent and handling that determine the result.

Why merino wool can shrink

Merino wool is made of natural protein fibers with tiny scales on the surface. When wool is exposed to high heat, heavy friction or sudden temperature changes, the fibers can lock together. The result is that the garment felts and shrinks.

That doesn't mean merino is impractical. On the contrary, it's a durable, functional material for everyday wear, the outdoors and colder seasons. It just needs a little more gentle handling than cotton and synthetics.

Take a look at our range of merino wool and Nordic wool sweaters.

Always check the care label first

Always start by reading the garment's care label. Some merino garments are treated to be machine washable, while others should be hand washed.

The care label always comes before general advice. This is especially important for thicker sweaters, patterned knits, cardigans and garments with details such as buttons or embroidery.

How to hand wash merino wool

Hand washing is a gentle option for wool sweaters and more delicate knits.

Fill a sink or basin with cool to lukewarm water. Avoid hot water. Add a small amount of wool detergent and gently place the garment in the water.

Let it soak for about five to ten minutes. Gently press the water through the fabric. Never rub, scrub or wring wool, as that can cause it to felt or lose its shape.

Then rinse in water of about the same temperature. Gently press out the water without wringing the garment.

Can merino wool be machine washed?

Yes, if the care label allows it. Choose a wool cycle, hand wash cycle or a very gentle cycle at no more than 86°F (30°C).

Use a low spin speed and a detergent made for wool. Avoid fabric softener, bleach and strong stain removers.

Wash thin wool garments in a mesh laundry bag, and avoid mixing them with jeans, towels and other rough fabrics that can cause unnecessary friction.

For a thick Scandinavian wool sweater, hand washing is often the safest choice if you're unsure.

Dry merino wool flat

After washing, merino wool should normally be dried flat. A wet wool garment that is hung up can stretch under its own weight.

Lay the garment on a clean towel, gently roll up the towel and press out the excess water. Then unroll the garment and carefully reshape it to its original form.

Let it dry flat at room temperature. Avoid radiators, direct sunlight and other strong heat sources. Don't use a tumble dryer unless the care label specifically says it's allowed.

How often does merino wool need washing?

Merino wool naturally resists odors. That's why a merino sweater often doesn't need to be washed after every wear.

If you wear it over a shirt or T-shirt, you can often wear it several times before washing. Hang it up or lay it out between wears so moisture and odors can air out.

Garments worn directly against the skin, such as wool socks, naturally need washing more often.

How to prevent pilling on merino wool

Pilling is caused by friction and is normal on natural materials like wool. It often shows up under the arms or where bags, seat belts and outerwear rub against the garment.

Use a wool comb or fabric shaver with a light touch. Don't pull pills off with your fingers, as that can damage the fibers.

Store wool properly between seasons

Wash or thoroughly air out the garment before long-term storage. Fold wool garments instead of hanging them, since hangers can stretch the shoulders.

Store them somewhere dry, ideally in a box or breathable bag. Dirt and skin residue can attract moths, so clean garments are always best before storage.

Common mistakes when washing merino wool

The most common mistakes are water that's too hot, a high spin speed, too much detergent, fabric softener, rubbing and drying on a radiator.

Also avoid washing merino wool unnecessarily. Airing it out is often enough and helps reduce wear, water use and energy consumption.

With the right care, a good wool garment can last for many years. Explore our range of Norwegian sweaters and wool knitwear for everyday life and cold winters.