Merino Wool is a warm, soft, and low-odor material that is frequently used in clothing meant for outdoorsmen. Its inherent scent-reduction properties and ease of movement make it the perfect option for hunters that are trying to shoot game.
But, caring for your Merino Wool clothing is going to take some thought and care. In this guide, we’re going to help you learn how to take care of your Merino Wool clothing in the best way that you can.
Storing Your Merino Wool Safely
One of the biggest problems that can happen during the “off season” of wearing Merino Wool is that critters can get to it. Insects (including moths) may come and chew it up. Rodents may also want to use it for their nesting.
Before you store your clothing, be sure that you dry, brush, and air it out. Then, you’ll want to fold your Merino Wool clothing with acid-free tissue paper. This will prevent it from becoming moist or moldy while it’s in storage.
After folding it, you want to put it in an airtight container or even a vacuum bag with all of the air taken out. This will help to protect the integrity of the clothing, prevent critters from getting to it, and allow it to be ready for use next season.
Washing Your Merino Wool Garments
Most people end up checking out a merino wool care guide because they want to know how to wash their products. Typically, you want to only throw them in the washing machine on a cool or warm cycle. There’s no need for special powder or liquid.
You don’t want to hand wash your Merino Wool clothing. Over time, it could cause residue to build up, which could eventually decrease its odor-reduction qualities. You also want to hang it to dry or tumble dry it – any amount of heat could cause shrinkage.
Pilling: Prevention and Treatment
If you’ve never had wool clothing, especially Merino Wool, then you may not know what pilling is. Since Merino Wool is what is known as a staple fiber, it has both short and long fibers within it. As the short fibers come to the surface of your clothing, it starts to gather a layer of fuzz that looks like hair – this is known as pilling.
In order to prevent pilling is to take your new clothing and wash it within the first few times that you wear it. Find garments that have coarser fabric (denim and fleece may be good options) and wash them with your Merino Wool garment. It’ll pull out those shorter fabrics, reducing the amount of pilling you see.
Final Thoughts
Merino wool is an excellent option for anyone who wants to stay warm outside without dealing with the stiffness that so often comes with thick clothing. But, Merino Wool products can be pricey, and you want to be certain that you take good care of all of the clothing that you have. Using this guide can help to make that process a little simpler.
