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Caring For Merino

Posted by Babu on 10th Sep 2015

Caring For Merino

How do I care for my merino products?

The great thing about merino wool is it’s durable and maintains its shape and structure unlike some other fabrics that stretch and sag with use.

With the amount of washing a baby creates along with our busy lifestyles, we are all interested in easy care baby clothes.

Merino fibres have a natural protective layer that helps to repel stains from being absorbed, as well as odours.

Being less prone to static, it attracts fewer dust mites, which is perfect for those suffering from allergies. The silky component of the wool is also ideal for those with skin irritations that have in the past never been able to wear wool.

Machine washable in many cases, means less time in the laundry and more with your family. However, soaking wool is not advised, you will end up with the fibre deteriorating, or looking like you have popped it in a container with 20 moths.

Merino is naturally elastic which lets it stretch with the wearer and return to its natural shape.

So why wouldn’t you wear merino? It truly is one of the world’s wonder fibres. We here at Babu™ love it and know you will love our merino range. 


Merino Washing Tips

Washing

  • Follow the label instructions
  • Wash and dry inside out
  • Wash dark colours separately
  • Machine wash- 40°C max, gentle wool cycle, delicate cycle or hand wash
  • Use wool approved detergent
  • Gentle machine short cycle spin

Drying:

  • Dry flat away from direct sunlight
  • Cool iron if required
  • Remove excess water by rolling in a towel

Use cool water, some washing machines put the hot water in first in a luke warm wash, if this happens your garment will shrink, so check your machine and wash in cool water to be sure.

Only use approved wool wash. Do not soak or wash in non chlorine or chlorine bleaches as well as normal laundry detergent. These create havoc with this beautiful fabric and you can end up with holes and bleaching, it can make your merino look like a thousand moths have been in the drawer.

Pilling is minimal but is a normal process. Generally if pilling occurs, it’s because the shorter fibers are working their way to the surface of the fabric, can also be from the item your baby has been rubbing against, like the carpet or bed linen, they are easily removed. 

Just pick them off and be careful not to wash your delicates with heavy cottons or static giving items such as fleece polyester. 
The best way to avoid pilling is to wash a new garment within three wears. To alleviate the pilling, we suggest that you wash the garment with a coarser fabric such as denim jeans (ensure all zippers are closed). The fabric will improve over time as the shorter fibres are removed.


Merino fabric no-no's

There are some important things to consider when owning merino in order to get the most out of your clothing. Poor care for merino can lead to weakening, tearing, ripping and fading of colour.

Do not:

  • Tumble dry
  • Soak
  • Hot water wash
  • Use soap, bleach, nappy cleaning agents
  • spot clean
  • Wring
  • Use garment brighteners or fabric softeners

If you are storing your woolens for the next baby or the following year, be sure to read our blog on How to get rid of clothes moths.

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