At what temperature is a wool sweater washed?
Washing a wool sweater is not a trivial task, but a balance between effective cleaning and preserving the softness and shape of the sweater. One of the most critical aspects is the water temperature. What temperature is safe to wash a wool sweater without damaging it? This is a question that often causes confusion among wool lovers, as wool is known to be more delicate than other fabrics. To answer this question, we turn to the blog of the company Candy.
Characteristics of wool
Wool is a natural fiber prized for its softness, warmth, and durability. However, it is also sensitive to external agents, such as heat and friction, which can cause shrinking, felting, or loss of shape. This makes the washing method, and particularly the water temperature, critical.
The perfect temperature to wash wool
Washing wool at the right temperature is very important to avoid damaging our wool sweater, risking having to throw it away. In general, a wool pullover or accessory should be washed at low temperatures to prevent fiber damage. The ideal temperature is around 30°C, which is considered warm enough to remove dirt but cool enough not to cause significant damage to the wool.
Can wool be washed at 40°C?
Washing wool with water that is too hot can have disastrous consequences. Temperatures above 40°C can cause the wool knit to shrink, making it lose its original shape and become unusable. Additionally, hot water can cause the wool to felt, an irreversible process where the fibers shrink and tangle together.
Superwash wool
Superwash wool, treated to resist shrinking and felting, can be washed at slightly higher temperatures, around 40°C. However, it is always advisable to follow the instructions on the internal label of the wool sweater to ensure the maximum durability of the garment.
Hand wash wool
To avoid any damage to the wool sweater, we at Lanaioli recommend hand washing as it allows better control of the washing temperature and the mechanical action exerted on the wool fibers. In this case, it is best to use lukewarm water, around 30°C, and a gentle wool detergent.
Useful tips for washing a wool sweater
Regardless of the water temperature, it is important to follow an appropriate washing procedure to preserve the quality of the wool sweater. Here are some useful tips:
1. Pre-treatment of stains: treat any stains on the wool sweater before washing with a gentle detergent.
2. Use of an appropriate detergent: use a detergent specific for wool or delicate garments, avoiding overly aggressive detergents that can damage the fibers.
3. Gentle washing: avoid rubbing or twisting the wool sweater during washing to minimize the risk of fiber damage.
4. Complete rinsing: make sure to rinse the wool sweater thoroughly to remove all detergent.
5. Proper drying: dry the wool sweater gently, preferably laid flat to maintain its original shape.
In conclusion, washing a wool sweater at the right temperature is very important to preserve the fibers and the sweater itself. The ideal temperature to wash a wool sweater is around 30°C, but it is important to adapt it to the specific needs of the garment and follow the instructions indicated on the internal care label. By following a gentle washing procedure and using appropriate detergents, it is possible to preserve the beauty and softness of wool for many years.
In our blog you can find numerous articles on how to wash a delicate garment and how to remove annoying pills that can form on wool sweaters.
