How to Wash Merino Knitwear Without Shrinking It
By Untouched World: Fine Merino Sustainable Fashion | Published: 2026-10-13
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to hand wash merino sweaters and baby knits safely. Follow these steps to prevent shrinking, keep fibers soft, and make your wool last for years.
Quick answer
Hand wash merino knitwear in cool water with a pH-neutral wool detergent, then gently squeeze out water and dry merino flat on a towel away from heat and sunlight. Never wring, rub, or hang wet knits, and skip the dryer entirely. This routine prevents shrinking and keeps fibers soft for years.
Why merino needs different care
Merino fibers have a scaly surface that can lock together when exposed to heat, agitation, or alkaline soap, causing permanent shrinkage. Unlike cotton, merino wool doesn't need frequent washing because it naturally resists odors and stains. Airing your knitwear between wears and spot-cleaning small marks will reduce how often you need to wash it. When you do wash, treat it gently to preserve the fiber's natural crimp and breathability.
Choosing the right detergent
Standard laundry detergents often contain enzymes or bleach that break down wool proteins. Use a wool detergent labeled pH-neutral or specifically designed for protein fibers. Avoid fabric softeners, which coat the fibers and reduce breathability. If you're unsure, check the label for words like 'wool-safe' or 'gentle'.
How often should you wash merino?
Merino knitwear rarely needs a full wash. For sweaters, washing every 5–10 wears is usually enough if you air them between uses. Baby knits and accessories like booties may need more frequent washing, but still hand wash only when visibly soiled or smelly. Overwashing accelerates pilling and fiber damage.
Step-by-step hand washing guide
- 1. Fill a basin with cool water: Use water below 30°C (86°F). Hot water causes wool fibers to shrink and felt. Checkpoint: Water should feel cool to the touch, never warm.
- 2. Add wool detergent: Pour a capful of pH-neutral wool detergent into the water and swirl gently to mix. Never pour detergent directly onto the garment. Common mistake: Using regular laundry soap, which can strip natural oils and cause shrinkage.
- 3. Submerge and soak: Place the knitwear in the water and press down gently to submerge. Let it soak for 5–10 minutes. Do not agitate or rub. Checkpoint: The garment should be fully saturated but not twisted.
- 4. Rinse without wringing: Drain the soapy water and refill with clean cool water. Press down gently to release soap. Repeat until water runs clear. Never wring or twist. Common mistake: Wringing out water aggressively, which stretches and distorts fibers.
- 5. Remove excess water: Lift the knitwear carefully and gently squeeze water out, then roll it in a clean dry towel and press to absorb more moisture. Do not twist the towel. Checkpoint: The garment should be damp, not dripping.
- 6. Dry flat in shape: Lay the knitwear flat on a dry towel or mesh drying rack, reshaping it to its original dimensions. Keep away from direct sunlight, radiators, or heat sources. Common mistake: Hanging wet knits, which causes stretching.
- 7. Store folded: Once completely dry, fold your merino knitwear and store it in a drawer or shelf. Avoid hanging to prevent shoulder distortion. Next step: Use a breathable garment bag for long-term storage.
Merino pieces that benefit from careful washing
- Pepi Knitted Booties: Made from 100% Merino and safe for newborn skin. Hand washing keeps the booties soft and prevents shrinkage, so they stay comfortable for delicate feet.
- Everyday Sweater: EcopossumTM blend of 50% Merino, 40% Possum and 10% Mulberry Silk. This blend is durable but still requires gentle handling to maintain its smooth finish and shape.
