How to Care for Wool Coats and Jumpers
You pull out your favourite wool coat or jumper, ready for another chilly day. It feels soft, warm and timeless. But wool needs the right care to stay beautiful for years. With a few simple habits, you can keep it looking its best, season after season.
Why wool is special
Wool is naturally resistant to stains, odours and wrinkles, which means it does not need frequent washing. However, when it does need a clean, it requires gentle handling. Wool fibres are like tiny coils that bounce back when treated carefully. If exposed to too much heat or rough washing, they can lose their shape or shrink.
The good news is that wool also has a natural outer layer that repels dirt. So most of the time, a little air and light brushing are all it needs to stay fresh.
Everyday care
- Brush regularly. Use a soft clothes brush after wearing to remove dust or surface dirt.
- Let it breathe. After wearing your coat or jumper, hang it somewhere airy before putting it back in the wardrobe.
- Avoid over-washing. Wool does not hold odour easily, so you can wear it several times before washing.
- Use proper hangers. Wide, padded or wooden hangers will support the shoulders of coats better than thin wire ones.
- Store carefully. Keep coats in breathable garment bags and add cedar or lavender sachets to deter moths.
Washing wool
Hand wash (the safest way)
- Turn the garment inside out and submerge it in lukewarm water, about 30 °C.
- Add a small amount of mild wool detergent and soak for ten minutes.
- Move it gently in the water without wringing or twisting.
- Rinse with cool water, gradually lowering the temperature.
- Press out excess water by rolling it inside a clean towel.
Machine wash (if allowed on the care label)
- Use a gentle or wool cycle at 30 °C or lower.
- Choose a detergent made for wool.
- Place knitwear in a mesh laundry bag to prevent stretching or snagging.
- Use a short, gentle spin only.
Drying and reshaping
- Always dry flat on a towel or drying rack. Hanging a wet wool garment can stretch it.
- Gently reshape it while damp, aligning the seams and edges.
- Keep it away from direct sunlight or heat.
- For jumpers, turn occasionally during drying to keep their shape even.
Dealing with pilling
Over time, friction can cause small fabric balls known as pills to appear. It is normal, especially on jumpers.
- Use a fabric comb or electric de-piller to remove them gently.
- A lint roller or soft brush can help remove loose fibres.
- Avoid pulling at pills by hand as it can damage the fabric.
- A quick brush after each wear can help prevent them forming again.
Removing stains on wool
Wool can handle light stains if treated carefully.
- Blot spills straight away with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Mix a small amount of wool detergent with lukewarm water and dab gently from the outer edge of the stain towards the centre.
- Never rub.
- Rinse carefully and press gently in a towel before drying flat.
- For tough marks, repeat slowly rather than using strong chemicals.
When to get help
Some wool garments have linings, structured seams or delicate blends that need special care. If your coat or jumper has been stained badly or feels too delicate to wash, a professional cleaner can treat it safely.
Many people across London, from Notting Hill to North Finchley, bring their wool coats and jumpers to trusted local cleaners when home methods are not enough. At Glint Express, we often help our neighbours restore their favourite wool pieces with care and attention to detail. Professionals know how to protect the fibres while bringing back the natural softness and shape of the fabric.
If you ever need a helping hand with your wool items, feel free to visit us or get in touch:
📍 9 Halliwick Court Parade, Woodhouse Road, London N12 0NB
📞 0161 696 0951
Your clothes deserve care, and we’re always happy to help. 🧺✨
A friendly note
Wool coats and jumpers are long-term companions. If you treat them with care, they will last for many winters. Brush them gently, wash them rarely, treat stains with patience and always dry them flat.
Here in North Finchley, we see many neighbours bringing their wool items to Glint Express after a long winter. A careful clean and a gentle press bring them back to life, ready for another season.
Stay warm, take your time and your wool will thank you.