You've spent hours knitting or crocheting something beautiful. The last thing you want is to ruin it in the wash. With a little care, your handmade pieces can last for years — even decades. Here's how to look after them.
Check the Ball Band First
Every ball of yarn comes with washing instructions on the label. Keep the label from at least one ball so you always know the care requirements. The care symbols tell you the maximum temperature, whether it's machine-washable, and whether it can be tumble dried.
Hand Washing (Recommended for Most Wool)
- Fill a basin with cool to lukewarm water (around 30°C)
- Add a small amount of wool wash or gentle detergent — never use biological detergent or fabric softener on wool
- Gently submerge the garment and let it soak for 10–15 minutes. Don't agitate, rub, or wring
- Rinse in water of the same temperature — sudden temperature changes cause felting
- Press out excess water gently. Never wring
- Roll the item in a clean towel and press to absorb more water
- Lay flat to dry on a clean towel, reshaping gently. Never hang wet woolens — they'll stretch
Machine Washing
Some modern yarns (especially acrylics and superwash wools) are machine-washable. If the label says so:
- Use a wool/delicate cycle at 30°C
- Place the item in a mesh laundry bag
- Use wool-specific detergent
- Never tumble dry unless the label specifically allows it
Storing Your Woolens
- Clean before storing — moths are attracted to body oils and food stains, not clean wool
- Fold knits — don't hang them. Hangers cause shoulder bumps and stretching
- Store in a breathable cotton bag or acid-free tissue paper, not plastic (which traps moisture)
- Add cedar balls or lavender sachets as natural moth deterrents
- Check stored items periodically for signs of moth damage
Dealing with Pilling
Pilling (those little bobbles that form on the surface) is normal, especially with softer yarns. Use a fabric shaver or a fine-toothed comb to gently remove pills. It's part of wearing and loving your handmade items.
Need Help?
If you're unsure about caring for a specific yarn, the team at Mandy Bond Wool & Yarn is always happy to help with care advice.