HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR MINUS33 MERINO WOOL

wool care couple on top of mountain

MACHINE WASH AND DRY

TOTAL EASY CARE

Minus33 Merino garments are all machine-washable, and are suitable for tumble drying. Even after frequent laundering they retain an ‘as new’ appearance. They won’t shrink, lose their shape, fade or color-bleed. They remain soft and comfortable for the life of the garment.

Washing
Storage

Washing Your Wool

merino wool shirt turned inside out

TURN INSIDE OUT

Turn your garment inside out before washing. This helps prevent pilling from abrasion in the machine or against other clothing.

merino wool in washing machine on cold

Machine Wash Cold

Machine Wash Cold. Use a gentle or a wool-specific detergent. 

merino wool in dryer on low heat

Tumble Dry Low

Tumble Dry Low (Clothing and Socks) or Lie Flat to Dry (Some Hats and Gloves).

bleach image crossed out

Do Not Use Bleach

Do NOT use bleach of any kind. Bleach will destroy wool.

fabric softener image crossed out

Do Not Use Fabric Softener

Our wool is already super soft. Fabric softener coats the wool in chemicals that inhibit wool's natural wicking and thermal properties.

nixwax wool wash laundry merino wool washing drying care

Detergents

Be sure to check that your detergent is free of any bleaches or fabric softeners. We are fond of Nikwax Wool Wash. 

NIKWAX WASHING INSTRUCTIONS

OTHER CARE TIPS

It’s good practice to always check the care label for each individual garment you own before washing.

WASH sparingly

Wool does not need to be washed after every wear. The natural anti-microbial properties help keep it fresh & odor free!

HAND WASHING

We recommend machine washing and drying your merino wool when possible, as instructed on the care label. However, there may be times you don’t have access to a machine washer or dryer. Here are some tips for when you need to hand wash:

  • If washing in a sink, be gentle and do not scrub the fabric. Soak the garment and gently swish the soap around.
  • Do NOT wring out the garments. To speed up drying time, place the garment between two towels, then roll it up to gently squeeze out excess moisture.
  • Lie flat to dry, don’t hang on a hanger because it can distort the fabric.
  • We recommend washing your wool thoroughly after returning from a long trip or hike, in order to remove all sweat, salts, dirt, crumbs, etc. from the fabric and to minimize any chance of insect damage.

IRONING

Each fiber is effectively a coil spring that returns to its natural shape after being bent, giving Merino Wool garments a natural resistance to wrinkles. We don’t recommend ironing often unless necessary. If you do, use a low or wool setting for 100% merino wool products. Another gentle way to easily eliminate any wrinkles is to hang your garment in the bathroom while you take a hot shower, which will allow the steam to naturally remove them.

STAINS

Merino Wool fiber has a natural protective layer which prevents most stains from being absorbed. And, since it is static-resistant, it picks up less dust and lint from the air. It’s best to treat any possibility of a stain as soon as possible so it doesn’t have a chance to absorb into the fabric.

If you do find a stain has set in, do NOT use Oxyclean, Bleach, or even Color-Safe Bleach. If you wouldn’t put it in your own hair, then it’s probably not the best choice for your wool. You can use the following to help spot-treat stains:

  • Mixture of warm water and rubbing alcohol
  • White Vinegar
  • Mild dish soap, undiluted laundry detergent such as Nikwax Wool Wash, or shampoo mixed with water
  • If you use a stain remover, be sure to check if it is safe for natural fibers such as wool or cotton. Woolite and Shout make some stain removers that will work. If you aren’t sure, contact us and we can help you figure out if it is safe to use.

LONG TERM STORAGE (SEASONAL)

LOVE YOUR WOOL

WASH. DRY. STORE.

For best results against insect damage, wash and dry your wool completely, then immediately put it away for long-term storage.

  1. Wash or Freeze Before Storing

    Always clean your Minus33 before putting it away. Washing removes oils and scents that attract pests. For extra peace of mind, you can also freeze your wool before storing.


  2. Seal It Up

    Store your wool in an airtight bag or plastic bin, like a Ziploc. This keeps out moths, beetles, and even critters such as mice.


  3. Keep Storage Areas Clean

    A clean space makes a big difference. If your storage area has carpet, vacuum regularly to help keep pests away.


  4. Use Natural or Traditional Deterrents

    Add cedar blocks, a cedar chest, or lavender sachets to repel moths naturally. You can also use mothballs for extra protection, but keep them away from children and pets. Refresh cedar or lavender as the scent fades.


  5. Check In Once in a While

    Even if you do not see insects, they can still cause damage. Take a quick look at your stored wool every so often to make sure everything stays in great shape.