Caring for Your Merino Wool Clothing: Dos and Don'ts

Merino wool is one of the easiest natural fibres to care for, and with just a few simple steps, you can keep it looking and feeling amazing for years.

As a naturally antibacterial, odour-resistant fabric, merino requires less washing than cotton or synthetics, making it both low-maintenance and incredibly durable. But like any premium natural fibre, a little extra care goes a long way in keeping it looking and feeling amazing for years.

Whether it’s a merino wool jumper, base layer, or thermal leggings, the right washing, drying, and storage habits will help maintain its softness, breathability, and durability - all without too much effort!

If you've ever asked questions like “Does merino wool shrink?”, “Can you hang merino wool?”, or “How do I store wool clothing safely?” - you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to wash, dry, store, and maintain merino wool so you can enjoy its benefits without worrying about damage.

Washing Merino Wool: Do’s and Don’ts

One of the biggest perks of merino wool? It naturally resists odours, bacteria, and stains, so it doesn’t need to be washed as often as other fabrics. This not only makes laundry easier but helps preserve the lifespan of your merino garments.

Unlike cotton or synthetics, merino fibres wick moisture away from the skin and repel odours, keeping them fresh for multiple wears. Airing out your merino is often enough to refresh it!

But when it’s time for a proper clean, following a few simple steps will keep your merino soft, breathable, and in great shape for years.

How to Wash Merino Wool

Hand Washing (Best for Most Garments)

Hand washing is the gentlest and safest way to clean merino wool, especially for sweaters, jumpers, jackets, cardigans, wraps, vests, and scarves.

1. Fill a basin with lukewarm water (cold to mild temperature).
2. Add a small amount of wool-friendly detergent (avoid regular washing powder, which can be too harsh!).
3. Gently swirl your merino clothing in the water for a few minutes - no scrubbing or wringing!
4. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water and gently squeeze out excess water (don’t twist or stretch the fabric).
5. Lay flat to dry in the shade.

Machine Washing (For Everyday Items like Tees & Tops)

Some merino garments - like short and long-sleeve tops, bamboo-merino blends, and socks - are machine washable on a delicate cycle. To keep them in the best condition:

1. Turn your merino garment inside out to reduce friction.
2. Select the wool, delicate, or cold wash cycle (no spin or a low-speed spin is best).
3. Use a mild, wool-friendly detergent (standard detergent can strip the fibres).
4. Remove from the machine immediately after washing - leaving wet merino bunched up can cause creases and shape loss.
5. Lay flat to dry - never hang wet merino as it can stretch out of shape.

The Do’s & Don’ts of Washing Merino

Do:

✔️ Use a wool-friendly detergent – Regular laundry powders contain enzymes that break down merino’s natural structure. Stick to a pH-neutral, wool-safe detergent.

✔️ Wash in cold or lukewarm water – Anything hotter than 30°C (86°F) can cause shrinkage.

✔️ Wash similar colours together – While merino doesn’t usually bleed, darker shades may transfer colour slightly when first washed.

✔️ Turn garments inside out – This helps prevent pilling and keeps the outer surface smooth.

✔️ Wash with like fabrics – Washing merino wool with other soft fabrics (rather than rough denim or zippers) will help preserve the fine fibres.

Don’t:

✖ Use bleach or fabric softeners – These break down the fibres, reducing merino’s lifespan.

✖ Wash in hot water – Heat tightens the fibres, causing irreversible shrinkage.

✖ Over-wash your merino garments – Unlike cotton, merino doesn’t trap odours, so you can wear it multiple times before washing. A simple air-out overnight is often enough.

✖ Soak for too long – A quick wash is enough. Extended soaking can weaken the natural structure of the wool.

Dealing with Stains, Sweat, and Odours

Got a spill? Spot clean stains immediately with cold water and mild soap. Sunlight soap is a great go to. Avoid rubbing aggressively - gently blot instead.

Feeling sweaty? Let your merino air out in fresh air for a few hours before deciding if it needs washing.

Stronger odours? A gentle hand wash should do the trick. If it’s persistent, add a splash of white vinegar to the rinse water - it’s wool-safe and helps neutralise smells.

Drying Merino Wool: Keep Its Shape & Softness

Once washed, how you dry your merino matters just as much as how you wash it.

Proper drying helps preserve its softness, prevent shrinking, and maintain its natural elasticity for years of wear.

One of merino’s biggest advantages? It doesn’t need high heat to dry quickly. Unlike cotton or synthetics, merino naturally wicks moisture away, so it air dries efficiently. However, heat and friction can damage the fibres, leading to shrinkage, stiffness, or loss of shape.

How to Dry Merino Wool

The best way to dry merino is the flat drying method. This prevents stretching and helps the garment keep its natural shape.

1. Lay your garment flat on a clean, dry towel.
2. Gently reshape the item to its natural form - especially for jumpers, cardigans or base layers.
3. Place it in a shaded, well-ventilated area - avoid direct sunlight or heat sources.
4. Flip the garment halfway through drying to ensure even airflow.

What to Avoid:

• Hanging merino wool – Wet merino stretches under its own weight, causing it to lose shape.
• Tumble drying – Heat and friction can cause shrinkage and fibre damage.
• Drying on a radiator or in direct sunlight – Heat exposure can weaken fibres and fade colours.

Can You Put Merino Wool in the Dryer?

Short answer: It’s not recommended.

While some modern merino blends claim to be tumble-dryer safe, air drying preserves the fibres best. If you’re in a hurry and absolutely need to use a dryer:

• Use low heat or a wool-friendly setting.
• Remove the garment while slightly damp and lay it flat to finish drying.
• Never tumble dry pure merino wool - heat will shrink it.

Drying FAQs

Does merino wool dry quickly?

Yes! Merino dries faster than cotton or synthetic blends, thanks to its moisture-wicking properties. A lightweight merino tee can air dry in just a few hours.

Can I hang my merino wool jumper to dry?

Avoid hanging! Even padded hangers can distort and misshape a wool garment. Instead, lay it flat so it keeps its original shape.

Can I spin-dry merino wool in the washing machine?

A gentle, low-spin cycle (or no spin at all) is best. High-speed spins can twist and stretch the fibres.

What about drying merino accessories like socks, scarves, or gloves?

✔ Flat drying is always best to maintain softness and shape.

✔ Socks and smaller items reshape easily while drying.

✔ Scarves and gloves can be gently pressed between towels before air drying.

Storing Merino Wool: Keep It Fresh & Moth-Free

Proper storage is just as important as washing and drying when it comes to keeping your merino wool clothing looking and feeling great.

Unlike synthetic fabrics, merino is a natural fibre that needs to breathe. That means plastic bags, damp spaces, or crammed drawers can shorten its lifespan.

The right approach prevents stretching, moth damage, and moisture buildup, ensuring your garments are ready to wear season after season.

How to Store Merino Wool

For Everyday Storage (Short-Term)

• Fold, don’t hang: Hanging merino for long periods can cause it to lose shape, especially for jumpers, cardigans, and base layers.
• Store in a cool, dry place: A drawer, wardrobe, or breathable fabric storage bag is ideal.
• Keep it clean: Washing before storing helps prevent body oils and food particles from attracting moths.
• Give it space: Avoid overstuffing drawers or shelves - merino needs airflow to prevent creasing.

For Seasonal Storage (Long-Term)

• Use breathable storage bags: Cotton or wool storage bags allow airflow and help prevent moisture buildup. Avoid plastic bags, as they trap humidity and encourage mildew.
• Add natural moth repellents: Place cedarwood, lavender sachets, or cloves in storage spaces to deter moths without harsh chemicals.
• Store in a dry, dark place: Avoid attics, damp basements, or direct sunlight, as these can lead to fibre damage.

How to Protect Merino Wool from Moths

Why are moths attracted to wool?

Moths aren’t drawn to the wool itself - they’re after sweat, skin cells, and food particles left behind in the fibres. That’s why storing clean merino wool is essential.

Best Moth Prevention Tips:

✔ Use cedarwood or lavender sachets – Natural and chemical-free, these work as gentle deterrents.

✔ Regularly air out stored wool – Give merino clothing a good shake every now and then.

✔ Vacuum storage spaces & drawers – Moths lay eggs in undisturbed areas. A quick clean-up removes any risk.

✔ Store heavier knits separately – Moths target thicker garments first, so layering fine merino pieces inside heavier jumpers adds extra protection.

Merino Storage FAQs

Can I hang merino wool?

For lightweight tops, hanging occasionally is fine - but for heavier knitwear like jumpers or cardigans, always fold to keep their shape.

Can I store merino wool in plastic bags?

It’s not recommended! Plastic traps moisture, leading to mildew and odour. We recommend using fabric storage bags instead.

What’s the best moth repellent for merino wool?

Natural options like cedarwood and lavender work well, but if moths are a recurring problem, clothing moth traps can also help.

Do I need to wash merino wool before storing it?

Yes! Even if it looks clean, washing before storage prevents invisible residues that attract moths.

Preventing Shrinkage & Stretching

Merino wool is known for its natural elasticity, meaning it holds its shape well and moves with you. That said, it’s not immune to environmental factors.

Why does merino wool shrink? Shrinkage happens when heat, moisture, and agitation cause the fibres to tighten and contract. This is why hot water, tumble drying, or aggressive washing can lead to a smaller, misshapen garment.

How to Prevent Merino Wool from Shrinking

Washing:

✔ Use cold or lukewarm water – Anything above 30°C (86°F) can cause fibres to shrink. Rinse with the same temperature of water you washed with.
✔ Select a gentle cycle or hand wash – Avoid harsh agitation in washing machines.
✔ Always use a wool-safe detergent – Harsh chemicals can weaken the fibres, making them more prone to shrinkage.

Drying:

✔ Lay flat to dry – Hanging while wet can cause stretching, while tumble drying can cause shrinkage.
✔ Keep away from direct heat and sunlight – High temperatures tighten wool fibres.

What If Merino Wool Shrinks? Can You “Unshrink” It?

If your favourite merino top has come out of the wash a little smaller than you remember, don’t panic - there’s a chance you can “stretch” it back!

While significant shrinkage is often irreversible, lightly shrunken merino wool can sometimes be coaxed back to its original shape with a gentle soaking and reshaping method. Here’s how to do it:

1. Fill a sink with lukewarm water and add a small amount of wool-friendly washing liquid.
2. Soak the garment for 10–15 minutes to relax the fibres.
3. Gently remove excess water without wringing or twisting. We suggest pressing the water out gently with your fingers.
4. Lay flat on a clean towel and carefully stretch the fabric back to its original shape. Don’t pull beyond the garment’s natural shape - you don’t want the opposite problem and have a tee that’s too big!
5. Let it air dry flat, gently reshaping as needed.

This method works best on lightly shrunken garments. If your merino has shrunk significantly, it may not fully return to its original size.

Does Merino Wool Stretch Over Time?

Yes - but in a good way!

Merino naturally has some stretch, allowing it to move with you without losing its shape. If cared for properly, it bounces back after wear and wash.

To prevent excessive stretching:

• Fold heavier garments instead of hanging them.
• Store merino wool correctly to avoid pulling or warping.
• Wash with like fabrics to prevent stretching from rougher materials.

Keeping Merino Wool Fresh & Long-Lasting

Merino wool is built to last - but a little extra care goes a long way in preserving its softness, breathability, and durability. Whether you wear merino daily or store it seasonally, following a few simple maintenance tips will keep it looking and feeling brand new for years to come.

How Often Should You Wash Merino Wool?

One of merino’s biggest advantages is that it doesn’t need to be washed as often as cotton or synthetics. Overwashing can actually shorten its lifespan, so knowing when to wash (and when not to) is key to keeping it in top condition.

Merino T-Shirts & Base Layers: Every 3–5 wears

Since these garments sit close to the skin, they’ll eventually absorb body oils and sweat. Airing them out overnight helps refresh them between washes.

When washing, turn them inside out to prevent pilling.

Merino Sweaters & Jumpers: Every 10+ wears

Merino knitwear is naturally odour-resistant and doesn’t need frequent washing. If lightly soiled, spot clean instead of washing the whole garment.

Fold instead of hanging to maintain shape and avoid stretching.

Merino Socks & Underwear: After each wear

These garments experience the most friction and moisture. Wash with a gentle wool detergent to maintain softness.

Always air dry - tumble drying can shrink and damage fibres.

Merino Outerwear (Thicker Jerseys, Ponchos & Cardigans): Every season or as needed

Coarser merino outerwear is naturally dirt-resistant and rarely needs washing.

Spot clean stains or marks with a damp cloth and mild wool detergent. Fold, don’t hang for long-term storage to avoid stretching.

Merino Wool Blankets & Throws: Once or twice per season

These are best dry cleaned or aired. Merino blankets and possum-merino throws don’t need frequent washing - a simple airing out helps keep them fresh.

If necessary, spot clean stains rather than washing the entire blanket. Merino Possum blend blankets can be hand-washed in cold water, then lay flat to dry to maintain softness and structure. Lambswool blankets are better dry cleaned to retain their shape.

Does Merino Wool Get Softer Over Time?

Yes!

High-quality merino (like ours here at The Wool Company) tends to soften with wear and washing, making it even more comfortable the longer you own it. Using wool-friendly detergent and air drying properly helps preserve its softness.

How Long Does Merino Wool Last?

With proper care, merino wool garments can last for years, if not decades.

Investing in quality NZ-made merino means you’re choosing a fabric that is naturally durable, biodegradable, and long-wearing.

Easy Care for Long-Lasting Merino

Caring for merino wool is easier than you think - with just a few simple habits, your garments will stay soft, fresh, and comfortable for years to come.

With its natural durability, odour resistance, and breathability, merino wool is an investment in quality that rewards you with long-lasting wear.

At The Wool Company, we take pride in offering NZ-made, high-quality merino wool clothing that’s designed to go the distance. Explore our range today and experience the best of NZ-made merino.