Merino wool is said to give all those qualities, from extreme softness and breathability to all the natural comforts that would allow kids to sleep peacefully for hours at night. Because of its ability to keep temperature and feel soft against the delicate skin, it has been the perfect match for baby sleepwear and toddler layers. But care must be taken on how to wash it, so it carries the best of properties. In this guide, receive simple yet trusted tips on how to wash wool at home with advice that has some background from real experiences from the Snuggle Cubs community.
Understanding Merino Wool
Merino wool is a natural fiber derived from Merino sheep, prized for being finer and softer than traditional wool. Unlike regular wool, which can feel coarse or itchy, Merino fibers are incredibly smooth and gentle on the skin, making them an ideal choice for children and babies.
Merino wool is especially popular for kids' clothing and sleepwear because of its remarkable natural properties:
+ Temperature regulation: Merino helps maintain a stable body temperature by keeping children warm in the cold and cool in the heat.
+ Odor resistance: Its natural antibacterial qualities help prevent unpleasant smells, even after extended wear.
+ Softness and comfort: The ultra-fine fibers feel smooth against sensitive skin, making it suitable for newborns and toddlers alike.
+ Moisture wicking: Merino can absorb moisture while still feeling dry, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
>>> Learn more about: What is Merino Wool? Benefits of Merino Wool
How to Wash Merino Wool Clothes?
Washing Merino wool may seem intimidating at first, but it is much easier than most people expect. Whether you choose to machine wash or hand wash, the key is to use gentle settings and the right detergent. With proper care, your Merino garments will stay soft, clean, and long lasting.
How to wash wool in washing machine?
Yes, many Merino wool garments can be safely washed in a machine, as long as you follow the care label instructions. Machine washing is convenient and works well for busy parents, especially when dealing with baby and toddler clothes.
Here is the step by step process:
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Turn garments inside out to reduce surface friction
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Place each item in a mesh laundry bag to protect the fibers
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Use the wool or delicate cycle on your washing machine
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Select cold or lukewarm water
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Add a wool safe detergent that is pH neutral and enzyme free
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Do not use bleach or fabric softener
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Set the spin cycle to low
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Remove the items immediately after the wash finishes
Bonus tip: For kids’ Merino sleepwear, always zip or button up the pieces before placing them in the laundry bag. This helps preserve the shape and prevents snags.
How to Wash Merino Wool by Hand?
Hand washing is the most gentle method and ideal for small or delicate items like baby onesies, wool socks, merino wool pyjamas, or fine knit layers.
Follow these steps:
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Fill a clean basin or sink with cold or lukewarm water
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Add a small amount of wool safe detergent and mix gently
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Submerge the garment and swirl slowly with your hand
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Let it soak for five to ten minutes without excessive rubbing
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Rinse with clean cold water until the soap is gone
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Press the water out gently without wringing or twisting
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Lay flat on a dry towel and roll to remove excess moisture
Afterward, move on to the drying step to preserve the fabric’s shape.
How to Dry Merino Wool?
Drying Merino wool correctly prevents shrinking and keeps the garment in good shape.
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Do not tumble dry unless the label says it is allowed
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Lay the item flat on a dry towel in a shaded, well ventilated area
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Reshape the garment while it is still damp
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Flip the item halfway through drying to allow even airflow
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Avoid hanging, which can stretch the fabric
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Never place wool near direct heat or under the sun
How to Iron Merino Wool?
Most Merino garments do not need ironing, but if there are visible wrinkles, you can iron them with care.
Steps to follow:
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Set the iron to the lowest heat or wool setting
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Place a cotton cloth or pressing cloth over the wool item
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Iron gently without applying pressure or dragging
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Avoid steam unless the label says it is safe
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Iron inside out for better protection on delicate items
How to Steam Merino Wool?
Steaming is a safe and gentle way to remove wrinkles from Merino wool without direct heat.
Here is how to do it:
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Hang the garment on a sturdy hanger
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Use a handheld steamer on the wool or low setting
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Hold the steamer a few inches away from the fabric
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Move slowly across the garment without soaking it
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Let it air dry completely before storing or wearing
Steaming is especially useful for sweaters or structured items that you do not want to flatten with an iron.
How to Remove Stains
Merino wool is naturally stain resistant to some degree, but when spills happen, act quickly and gently.
Step by step stain removal:
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Blot the stain with a clean cloth to absorb moisture
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Mix cold water with a few drops of wool safe detergent
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Dampen a clean sponge or cloth with the solution
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Dab gently on the stained area without rubbing
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Rinse with cool water and blot dry
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Lay flat to air dry completely
Avoid using chemical stain removers unless they are specifically labeled safe for wool.
Choosing the Right Wool Detergent
Merino wool has a natural structure rich in proteins and lanolin oils, so it needs gentle detergents to stay soft, avoid shrinking, and maintain its shape. Below are recommended options:
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Ecostore Wool and Delicates: Plant-based and free from harsh chemicals. Suitable for both hand and machine washing.
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Woolite Delicates: Widely available and gentle on all delicate fabrics, including silk and lace.
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Nikwax Wool Wash: Specifically designed for Merino wool and thermal wear. Cleans without stripping natural fibers.
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Tru Earth Baby Laundry Strips: Ultra-light and travel-friendly detergent sheets that dissolve easily in water.
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Soak Wash: No-rinse formula that saves water and keeps baby clothes feeling soft and fresh.
When washing baby Merino clothes, always choose:
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Fragrance-free and dye-free formulas: Helps prevent skin irritation and rashes.
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Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested options: Safe for newborns and babies with sensitive skin.
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Enzyme-free and non-toxic ingredients: Protects the natural wool fibers and prevents fabric damage.
Washing Baby Clothes and Newborn Merino Items
Merino wool is a top choice for babies due to its natural softness, breathability, and ability to regulate body temperature. It is commonly used for onesies, sleepwear, and swaddles. However, it requires special care to protect both the fabric and your baby's delicate skin.
Newborn skin is highly sensitive. Since Merino items are often worn directly on the skin, they must be washed gently to avoid irritation or fabric damage. Strong detergents, hot water, or rough washing can reduce softness and stretch the garment out of shape.
How to handle washing newborn clothes:
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Read the care label carefully
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Use cold or lukewarm water with a gentle, baby-safe detergent
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Hand wash small items like mittens and socks
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If using a washing machine, place garments in a mesh laundry bag and select the wool or delicate cycle
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Do not use bleach or fabric softeners
For drying:
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Lay garments flat on a clean towel
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Press gently to remove excess water
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Let them dry naturally in the shade
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Avoid hanging or tumble drying to prevent stretching or shrinking
As for washing frequency:
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Wash after two to three wears if the item is worn close to the skin
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Wash immediately if the garment is soiled with milk or other fluids
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Outer layers can be washed less often unless visibly dirty
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If your baby has allergies or sensitive skin, wash more frequently using extra mild detergent
With the right care, Merino wool baby clothing stays clean, soft, and safe for everyday wear.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Washing merino wool is simple, but a few missteps can damage the fabric:
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Hot water shrinks and hardens wool fibers, always use cold or lukewarm water.
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Regular detergents may contain enzymes or softeners that strip wool’s natural oils. Use a wool-safe formula.
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Overloading the washer or skipping rinses can leave residue that irritates sensitive baby skin.
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Wringing stretches the fabric. Gently press water out with a towel and lay flat to dry.
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Machine drying can distort shape and softness unless labeled safe.
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Overwashing isn't needed. Merino resists odors, wash only when soiled or every 2–3 wears for babies
Conclusion
Learning how to wash wool properly isn’t as complicated as it sounds. With cool water, gentle wool-safe detergent, and flat drying, your merino garments will stay soft, odor-free, and in excellent shape for years. Just remember: avoid hot water, harsh detergents, and tumble drying. Once you know how to wash wool the right way, taking care of your baby's or your own clothing at home becomes quick and stress-free. Explore our merino wool essentials, perfectly crafted for comfort, breathability, and easy care.
