5 Easy Steps to Wash a Wool Scarf
Wool scarves are one of the absolute best ways to add style and warmth to your outfit, and wool scarves provide some of the best warmth properties out there. However, washing them requires special care to prevent damage and maintain their quality and shape. In this article, we will provide you with a simple 5-step guide on how to wash wool scarves properly. Want to wash your scarf in the washing machine? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered there, too!
Step 1: Read the Care Label
Before starting the washing process, carefully read the care label attached to your wool scarf. The process for washing many wool garments is similar, but can vary depending on make and shape. The care label will provide specific instructions from the manufacturer on how to clean the scarf. It may include information about water temperature, washing techniques, and any other important details you need to know, like the wool type or yarn blend. If your care label only has symbols, be sure to check our Laundry Symbol Decoder Guide.
Don’t have a care label? Don’t fret! It’s common for people to remove care labels, especially on externally visible items like scarves. Plus, scarves are a common home-made project for knitters and crochet. The good news is, the instructions below are gentle enough to work for the vast majority of wool scarves!
Step 2: Choose to Hand Wash or Delicate Cycle
Most wool scarves require hand washing on the delicate cycle of your washing machine. Most modern washing machines have a delicate setting that mimics the minimal agitation of hand washing. While this is often safe, hand washing will always provide the gentlest care to help preserve your scarf for years to come.
Pro Tip: If you have a top-loading washing machine, you’ll need to remove the center agitator column to avoid your scarf getting tangled up and stretched out! They usually lift out easily if you just pull upward. If yours can’t come out, you must use a mesh garment bag. These bags hold your scarf together and eliminate knots and tangles.
Step 3: Wash the Scarf
If hand washing, fill a sink or basin with cold water and add a gentle wool detergent. Gently agitate the water to create suds. Submerge the wool scarf in soapy water and lightly swirl it around, ensuring that the entire scarf is soaked. Avoid rubbing or twisting the fabric vigorously, as this can cause felting or damage to the wool fibers. Let the scarf soak for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 4: Rinse Carefully
After the soaking time, drain the soapy water and refill the sink or basin with clean cold water. Gently swish the scarf around to rinse out any remaining soap. Repeat this process until the water runs clear and free of suds, indicating that all the detergent has been removed.
Step 5: Dry Properly
To dry the wool scarf, lay it flat on a clean towel. Depending on your scarf’s length, you can either double it back, trying to keep the two halves from overlapping, or use a second towel. Loosely roll up the towel, pressing gently to absorb excess water. Never wring or twist the scarf, even in the towel, as this can stretch out the fibers and distort its shape. After removing the towel, reshape the scarf if needed, and lay it flat on a dry towel or a drying rack. Allow it to air dry completely before storing it or wearing it again — usually about 24 to 48 hours will do the trick. Don’t get impatient and use a hair dryer, or place it near a heater in hopes of speeding it up!
Pro Tip: Scarfs are long, and it may be difficult to find a flat surface on which to dry them. While tempting, avoid hanging the scarf from a clothes line! This places all of the weight of the wet scarf on a single fold and can dramatically impact your scarf’s shape.
Conclusion:
Well there you have it! Properly washing your wool scarves will help maintain their softness, shape, and quality. By following these 5 simple steps, you can ensure that your wool scarf remains in excellent condition and continues to be a stylish addition to your wardrobe for years to come. If you’re looking for more tips on how to wash your wool scarves at home, check out this article!