How to Care for Merino Wool Blended Socks, Clothing, and Gear

This is a general guide to help care for Merino wool that has blended with other fibres. These Merino wool blends are known for their softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties, and are often found in various clothing items, from sweaters to socks to base layers. Caring for Merino wool blended materials requires some specialized care to maintain their unique qualities. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to care for this gear, from cleaning and washing to drying and storing. With the right care, you can ensure your favourite adventure apparel remains comfortable and stylish for years to come.

Why Caring for Merino Wool Blended Socks, Clothing, and Gear Matters

Merino wool blended materials combine the natural beauty of Merino wool with other fibres to create garments that are both soft and durable. These blends often enhance the toughness and shape of the garment while maintain the moisture-wicking properties of wool, making them a popular choice for active wear and everyday clothing. However, it's important to understand that Merino wool blended materials, like pure Merino wool, require special care. Neglecting to care for them properly can lead to issues such as pilling, stretching, and a loss of shape. By following the steps in this guide, you can preserve the unique qualities of Merino wool blended clothing and extend their lifespan.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials for caring for Merino wool blended clothing, socks, and gear:

1. Mild Wool Detergent: Choose a wool-specific detergent that is gentle on natural fibres. Standard laundry detergents can be too harsh and may damage the fibres.

2. Cool Water: Merino wool blended fabric should be washed in cool water. Using extremely hot water can cause shrinkage and affect the wool's elasticity.

3. Washing Machine:Most Merino wool blend clothing can go in the wash on a gentle or wool cycle. If you don't have a washing machine, then a sink or basin will do the trick. 

4. Drying Rack or Flat Surface: Merino wool blended fabric should be dried flat. You'll need a drying rack or a clean, dry towel to lay your garments on. Alternatively, if the care instructions on the garment allow, you may use a dryer to tumble dry, but we recommend checking often to prevent over drying.

Prep 

Before you start the cleaning process, prepare your Merino wool blended socks, clothing, or gear:

1. Read Care Labels: Always check the care labels on your garments. These labels often provide specific washing instructions and guidelines.

2. Empty Pockets: Ensure there are no items in your pockets or any loose objects that could potentially damage your gear.

3. Fasten Zippers and Buttons: Close all zippers, buttons, and fasteners to prevent snagging during the washing process.

4. Hook & Loop: Avoid washing Merino wool with any type of hook and loop(Velcro) closure.

Washing 

1. Machine Wash: Select a delicate cold water or, if available on the machine, a wool-washing cycle. Or

2. Hand Wash: Use cold water and allow to soak 10-15 minutes. Gently agitate the clothing to clean.

3. Add Mild Wool Detergent: Choose a mild wool detergent and add the recommended amount to the water or machine. 

4. Spot-Clean Stains (if needed): Use a soft brush or cloth to spot-clean any stains. Be careful not to rub too vigorously, as this can damage the fibres.

Drying 

Merino wool is quick drying, which makes it the perfect material for travelling as well as outdoor adventures.

1. Lay Flat to Dry: Lay your clothing, socks, or gear on a flat clean, dry towel or drying rack. Reshape them to their original dimensions and smooth out any wrinkles.

2. Tumble Dry: If needed, tumble dry on low but check often to ensure no shrinkage or over drying. This material generally air dries fast. 

3. Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat: Keep your gear out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources like radiators or heaters. 

Storing 

Proper storage is important to protect your Merino wool blended clothing between wears. Follow these storage tips:

1. Keep It Clean: Ensure your gear is entirely dry before storing them. Any moisture can lead to mould and mildew.

2. Use Airtight Bags (if needed): If have had issues with pests like moths, you may consider storing your Merino wool in airtight bags or containers. Make sure they are clean and dry before storage.

3. Avoid Hanging: Hanging garments for extended periods can cause stretching. It's better to fold and store them in drawers or on shelves.

4. Sock Roll: Avoid rolling socks together, instead pair and fold in half.

Other

Even with the best care, Merino wool blended fabrics can encounter common issues. Here's how to address them:

1. Pilling: To remove small pills, use a fabric shaver or a fine-toothed comb. Prevent pilling by avoiding friction, like backpack straps or abrasive surfaces.

2. Stretching: To restore shape to stretched Merino wool blended fabric, wash them, gently reshape them, and lay them flat to dry.

3. Odour: Merino wool is naturally odour-resistant, but if they need refreshing, hang them in a well-ventilated area to air out. Avoid the use of fabric softeners or sprays, as they can ruin Merino wool’s natural properties.

4. Shrinkage: This can happen, usually due to heat, so one way to try stretch the Merino wool back into shape is to soak the socks, clothing, or gear in warm water. Next lay it flat on a towel and stretch the material back into it's original shape. 

Caring for Your Merino Wool Blended Socks, Clothing, & Gear.

Caring for Merino wool blended socks, clothing, and gear is an investment in comfort, style, and longevity. With a gentle touch and the right products, you can keep your blended gear looking and feeling the best for years to come. From performance socks that keep your feet in top comfort to versatile base layers that help regulate your body temperature, Merino wool blended fabrics offer unparalleled comfort and performance.

Looking for your own wardrobe of Merino Wool Blended Socks, Clothing, & Gear? Check out The Urban Gear range Today