How to Wash Merino Wool (Without Ruining It)—A Step-by-Step Guide

At RYSY, we design our merino-Cordura-spandex blends to be more durable and easier to care for than 100% merino. But whether you’re washing a pure merino shirt or a blended fabric, this guide will help you keep it looking and performing like new.

Why Merino Wool Needs Special Care

Merino wool fibers are delicate—they can shrink, stretch, or felt (matt together) if exposed to:

• Hot water (causes shrinking).
• Harsh detergents (strips natural oils, leading to pilling).
• Agitation (like rough machine washing).
• High heat (drying or ironing).

But don’t worry—washing merino is simple once you know the rules.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Merino Wool

1. Check the Care Label

Always start here! Some merino blends (like RYSY’s) can handle gentle machine washing, while 100% merino often requires hand washing.

⚠️ If it says “hand wash only,” don’t risk the machine!

2. Choose the Right Detergent

Avoid: 
❌ Regular laundry detergents (too harsh).
❌ Fabric softeners (coat fibers, reducing breathability).
❌ Bleach (destroys wool fibers).

✅ Use:

• Wool-specific detergents (e.g., Nikwax Wool Wash, Eucalan, or Woolite).
• Mild, pH-neutral soaps (like Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap).
• A drop of vinegar (helps remove odors and softens fabric).

🔹 Pro Tip: If you’re in a pinch, a tiny amount of baby shampoo works too!

3. Wash by Hand (Safest Method)

For 100% merino or delicate items:

1. Fill a sink or basin with cool or lukewarm water (never hot!).
2. Add detergent and swish to mix.
3. Submerge the garment and gently agitate for 1–2 minutes. Don’t scrub or wring!
4. Let soak for 10–15 minutes (great for odor removal).
5. Rinse thoroughly with cool water until no soap remains.

✅ For tough odors: Add 1 tbsp of baking soda to the soak.

4. Machine Wash (If Allowed)

For merino blends (like RYSY’s merino-Cordura-spandex):

1. Turn the garment inside out (protects the outer fabric).
2. Use a mesh laundry bag (prevents stretching and snags).
3. Select the “delicate” or “wool” cycle (cool water, gentle spin).
4. Add wool detergent (never regular detergent!).
5. Skip the spin cycle if possible (or use the lowest setting).

⚠️ Warning: Even if a blend can go in the machine, aggressive cycles can still damage it.

5. Drying Merino Wool

The #1 cause of shrinking? Heat and agitation. Here’s how to dry safely:

✅ Best Method: Air Dry

• Lay flat on a clean towel (reshaping if needed).
• Avoid direct sunlight (can fade colors).
• Never hang (merino stretches when wet).

❌ Avoid:

• Tumble drying (even on low—heat = shrinking).
• Wringing (can felt the fibers).
• Radiators or dryers (high heat = disaster).

🔹 Pro Tip: For faster drying, roll the garment in a towel to remove excess water before laying flat.

6. Removing Wrinkles (If Needed)

Merino wool rarely wrinkles, but if it does:

• Steam it (use a garment steamer or hang in a steamy bathroom).
• Iron on low heat (place a damp cloth between the iron and fabric).

⚠️ Never iron directly—it can scorch or shrink the wool!

7. Storing Merino Wool

To keep your merino gear in top shape:
✅ Fold, don’t hang (hanging stretches the fibers).
✅ Store in a cool, dry place (avoid plastic bags—wool needs to breathe!).
✅ Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets (natural moth repellents).

❌ Avoid mothballs (toxic and can leave a smell).

How Often Should You Wash Merino Wool?

One of merino’s superpowers is its odor resistance—you can wear it multiple times before washing! Here’s a quick guide:

🔹 Pro Tip: Spot clean stains with a damp cloth and mild soap to extend time between washes.

Common Merino Wool Care Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

How RYSY’s Merino-Cordura-Spandex Blend Makes Care Easier

At RYSY, we blend merino with Cordura® and spandex to create gear that’s:
✔ More durable (Cordura® resists abrasions).
✔ Easier to wash (spandex helps retain shape).
✔ Faster drying (Cordura® wicks moisture better than 100% merino).

Result? You get all the benefits of merino with less fuss.

FAQ: Your Merino Wool Care Questions Answered

Can I machine wash 100% merino wool?

Only if the label says so—and even then, use a delicate cycle and wool detergent. For 100% merino, hand washing is safest.

Why does my merino shirt smell after one wash?

If it still smells, you might not have rinsed thoroughly or used enough detergent. Try soaking in vinegar + water (1:4 ratio) for 30 minutes, then rewash.

How do I remove pilling from merino wool?

Use a fabric shaver or sweater comb to gently remove pills. To prevent pilling:

• Wash less frequently.
• Use gentle detergents.
• Avoid friction (e.g., rubbing against backpack straps).

Can I wash merino wool with other clothes?

No! Wool can felt when agitated with zippers, Velcro, or rough fabrics. Always wash separately or in a mesh bag.

Final Thoughts: Merino Wool Care Made Simple

Caring for merino wool doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps:

1. Wash gently (hand wash or delicate cycle).
2. Use the right detergent (wool-specific or mild soap).
3. Air dry flat (never tumble dry).
4. Store properly (fold, don’t hang).

With the right care, your merino shirts, socks, and base layers will stay soft, odor-free, and adventure-ready for years.

Ready to Upgrade Your Outdoor Wardrobe?

Explore RYSY’s merino-Cordura-spandex collection—designed for performance, durability, and easy care.

💬 What’s your biggest merino wool care challenge? Share your tips (or horror stories!) in the comments!