The art of caring for your merino wool
Feb 12, 2024
INTRODUCTION
Merino wool is known for its softness, warmth and durability. Whether it's your beloved sleep mask, your favorite blanket, your pillow cover, or even a hat, a soft scarf or an elegant shawl, taking care of your items in Volprivé merino wool is essential to maintain their quality and longevity.
In this guide, we'll explore the art of caring for merino wool through the gentle process of machine washing, helping you keep your precious Volprivé pieces looking great for years to come.
UNDERSTANDING MERINO WOOL
Merino wool, from merino sheep, is appreciated for its fine fibres and exceptional properties. Unlike traditional wool, merino wool is incredibly soft and lightweight, making it a preferred choice for clothing, accessories and even bedding and underwear.
Its natural moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating abilities make it perfect for a wide range of climates and activities, from cold winter days to outdoor adventures and our 4 seasons.
MACHINE WASHABLE, REALLY?
Many are hesitant to machine wash their wool clothes, with the right technique and a gentle approach it is entirely possible to keep them fresh and crisp.
Although hand washing is often recommended for delicate fabrics such as wool, the 100% merino wool yarn used in the making of Volprivé items bears the Total Easy Care seal, a designation under the Woolmark brand the ultimate in wool quality control. This allows the washer to be used safely, without the risk of it shrinking or the colours fading.
Combined with the fact that many modern washing machines offer gentle cycles specially designed for wool and other delicate materials, machine washing is a simple, practical and effective method of caring for your Volprivé merino wool items. , especially when time is short!
WASH ON DELICATE CYCLE or for WOOL
Before starting washing, inspect your items to remove any traces of food or stains. For stubborn stains, we recommend partially moistening the piece then rubbing gently with Marseille soap.
Newer model washing machines feature specialized wool or delicate cycles, designed to minimize agitation and prevent stretching or felting. These gentle cycles typically use lower temperatures and reduced spin speeds to protect delicate fibres.
Set the temperature to lukewarm water. It is important not to use extremes so no water that is too hot or too cold. The Total Easy Care designation of Volprivé merino wool offers optimal durability with lukewarm water care.
THE PERFECT SOAP
When it comes to washing merino wool, opt for a gentle detergent specially formulated for wool and other delicate fabrics. NEVER use harsh chemicals and bleach which can damage wool fibres, making them brittle and losing their softness over time. Look for a detergent that is free of enzymes, optical brighteners and harsh surfactants.
We recommend odorless soap from the Quebec company ODORA. Their MOUSSELINE soap is ideal and formulated to wash perfectly and gently. It will leave your pieces soft and fresh. And for an extra touch of happiness, paired with their laundry scent…it is happiness in a jar!! You will give me some news!
Avoid overloading the washing machine to give your merino wool items enough room to gently agitate and rinse thoroughly. For MEDITATION sleep masks (remove the ball pocket which is hand washable), as well as for NUAGE or LUNA pillow covers (DO NOT WASH THE MEMORY FOAM), we recommend using a laundry net .
DRY FLAT
Once the wash cycle is complete, remove your merino wool items quickly to avoid wrinkles and minimize stretching. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this may distort its shape and damage the fibres. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and reshape the garment while it is still damp.
Lay your merino wool items flat on a clean towel or drying rack to air dry naturally. Avoid hanging them, as this may distort them. Keep them away from direct heat sources and sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause fading and damage the fibres.
CONCLUSION
Caring for your merino wool items doesn't have to be intimidating. With the right technique and gentle treatment, you can keep your Volprivé pieces treasured for years to come. By following these simple steps to machine wash your Volprivé merino wool garments, you can enjoy their softness, warmth and beauty season after season.
Treat your merino wool with the care and respect it deserves, and it will reward you with comfort and style for years to come.