How to Care for Your Wool Sweaters (Without Ruining Them)

Before washing machines, detergents, and dry cleaners existed, people relied on nature itself to care for wool.

A Brief History: Cleaning Wool with Snow

In colder climates, wool sweaters and blankets were traditionally laid out in fresh, dry snow to be cleaned. The process was simple but effective; garments were placed flat on clean snow, then snow was gently pressed into the fibres.  After a bit of time, the items were shaken out and left to air

Cold temperatures helped tighten wool fibres, while snow lifted dirt and absorbed odors without soaking the garment. This method preserved structure, prevented shrinkage, and extended the life of wool garments.

For those of us living in Canada, this history feels especially relevant. While snow‑cleaning isn’t necessary today, it reminds us of an essential truth about wool: it doesn’t need frequent washing to stay fresh.

Wool sweaters are some of the most beautiful and long‑lasting pieces you can own—if they’re cared for properly. From chunky hand‑knit pullovers to classic vintage crewnecks and cardigans, wool sweaters were made to endure. 

At Filthy Rebena Vintage, we always say: clean less, care more.

Yes, you can use gentle shampoo or conditioner to wash wool. Wool is a natural fibre—just like hair—so mild, fragrance‑free formulas are often safer than harsh detergents. Below is a simple, safe, and practical guide to caring for your wool sweaters so they stay soft, structured, and wearable for decades to come.

Why Vintage Wool Needs Special Care

Vintage wool is often:

- Higher quality than modern wool

- Untreated or minimally treated

- More sensitive due to age

Harsh detergents, hot water, and frequent washing can cause:

- Shrinkage

- Felting

- Colour bleeding

- Loss of structure

The good news? Wool is naturally odor‑resistant, antibacterial, and self‑cleaning, which means it rarely needs full washing.

Step 1: Start With Airing (Often All You Need)

For lightly worn wool garments:

- Hang the item on a sturdy hanger

- Place it in fresh air (near an open window or outdoors in dry weather)

- Leave for 12–24 hours

This removes odors and refreshes fibres naturally.

Pro tip: Steam from a distance (never press) helps release odors and wrinkles without washing.

Step 2: Spot Clean Instead of Washing

If there’s a small mark:

You’ll need:

- Cold water

- A mild wool‑safe detergent  Or a small amount of gentle shampoo or conditioner (an easy option most of us already have at home)

- A clean cloth

How to spot clean:

Dab—don’t rub—the area with a damp cloth

Add a drop of gentle detergent if needed

Dab again with clean water to remove soap

Lay flat to dry

Always test on an inside seam first.

Step 3: Hand Wash Only When Necessary

If the sweater truly needs washing (especially pieces worn close to the skin):

How to Hand Wash Wool Sweaters Safely

- Fill a basin with cold water only

- Add a small amount of wool‑safe detergent

In a pinch, use the gentle shampoo or conditionertechnique—they’re designed to clean hair fibres gently, much like wool

- Submerge the sweater and gently squeeze (no twisting)

- Soak for 10–15 minutes

- Rinse with cold water until clear

**Never use hot water or agitation—this causes felting and shrinkage.

Step 4: Dry Flat—Never Hang Wet Wool

To dry:

- Gently press out excess water (do not wring)

- Lay the garment flat on a towel

- Roll the towel to absorb moisture

- Reshape the garment and leave flat to dry

Hanging wet wool stretches fibres and ruins shape—especially in vintage knits and blazers.

Storage Tips to Keep Wool Looking New

Proper storage is just as important as cleaning:

- Store clean garments only

- Fold heavy knits instead of hanging

- Use breathable garment bags (never plastic)

- Add cedar blocks or lavender for moth protection

Check stored wool once per season.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Washing machines—even on “delicate” * Hot water * Regular laundry detergent * Hanging heavy wool pieces * Over‑cleaning

Quick Wool Sweater Care Checklist (Save This)

- Air out between wears (cold, dry air is best)

-  Spot clean small marks instead of full washes

- Hand wash only when necessary

-  Use cold water only

- Choose wool detergent or gentle shampoo/conditioner

-  Never wring or twist

-  Dry flat and reshape while damp

-  Fold heavy knits for storage

-  Use cedar or lavender for moth protection

Final Thoughts: Vintage Wool Is Worth the Care

Vintage wool garments were made to last decades—and with the right care, they still will. Treat them gently, wash them sparingly, and let the natural properties of wool do most of the work.

If you’re ever unsure how to care for a specific wool sweater—especially a vintage or hand‑knit piece—we’re always happy to help at Filthy Rebena Vintage.

Caring for vintage means preserving history—and style.

Looking for beautifully curated wool sweaters and knits? Explore our collection in‑store or online at Filthy Rebena Vintage.