Washing Merino Wool: How to Keep Baby Clothes Beautiful and Soft

Merino wool baby clothes are not only beautiful and soft, but also practical. The fabric regulates temperature, is breathable, and naturally hypoallergenic. But how do you care for merino wool properly to maintain its luxurious qualities?

In this blog post, you'll learn all about washing, drying, and caring for merino wool baby clothes. We also share helpful tips for stains, preventing shrinkage, and how to keep merino wool fresh without having to wash it constantly.

What is merino wool and why is it ideal for baby clothes?

Merino wool comes from merino sheep and is known for its fine, soft texture. It's much less scratchy than regular wool, making it perfect for babies' sensitive skin.

In addition, merino wool is:

Hypoallergenic
Temperature regulating → warm in winter, cool in summer
Breathable and moisture-wicking → keeps the skin dry
Durable and dimensionally stable

This makes merino wool clothing ideal for everyday use, all year round.

Self-cleaning effect: why you don't need to wash merino wool often

Washing is often unnecessary. Merino wool largely cleans itself due to its unique fiber structure:

Natural lanolin → antibacterial and odor-resistant
Odors are absorbed less quickly
Dirt is pushed to the surface → airing is often sufficient

Tip: Is your merino wool product smelling a little less fresh? Hang it outside or in a humid, ventilated bathroom. The fibers will freshen up without having to wash.

Comfort and scent: an added benefit for babies

In baby products, scent plays an important role.
Wear the woolen product, such as a Snuggle or cardigan , for a few hours. This way, it absorbs your scent. This provides reassurance for your baby and helps with bonding and comfort, especially in unfamiliar situations.

When and how to wash merino wool

Sometimes it's unavoidable. In case of stains or accidents, it's best to wash merino wool carefully.

Hand wash (recommended)

Use lukewarm water (max. 30 °C) and mild wool detergent.
Soak gently → do not rub or wring
Rinse thoroughly
Dry flat, out of the sun

Machine washable (possible, with care, but at your own risk)

Use wool wash program (max. 30 °C)
Wool detergent → no fabric softener
Use laundry bag
Wash inside out
Not too many revs (max. 600-800)
Don't put other items in the drum. This creates friction that can cause the wool to shrink.

Treating and preventing stains

Stains are almost impossible to prevent with babies, but:

Treat stains locally with a stain cloth
Prevent stains → use a bib or hydrophilic cloth under the head when sleeping or feeding.

This way, your merino wool clothing will stay beautiful for longer and you will need to wash it less often.

Pilling and fluff: very normal with merino wool

You may have noticed it before: little balls or lint on merino wool clothing. Don't worry—this is completely normal. Merino wool is made up of fine natural fibers that, especially initially, can pill due to friction during wear or washing. This doesn't affect the quality or softness of the fabric.

Fortunately, this is easily solved. Use a wool comb , a handy tool that gently combs out the lint and fluff from the fabric. This not only helps your clothes look like new again but also prevents the lint from spreading further.

→ View our wool comb here → specially selected for the safe and effective care of merino wool.

Regular use of a wool comb will keep your merino wool baby clothes beautiful and soft — just the way they should be.

What if your merino wool has shrunk?

Merino wool can shrink if handled incorrectly. The scales on the fibers close, and air escapes.

Causes:

Washed too hot
Spin speed too high
Fabric softener used

If you notice it has shrunk, try gently reshaping the garment while it's damp. Unfortunately, major damage is often irreparable.

Drying merino wool: how to do it right

Do not tumble dry
Dry flat on a towel
Avoid direct sunlight or heating
Place in original form

This way your clothes will stay in good shape and soft.

Long-term maintenance and care

In addition to washing, good maintenance is important:

Regular airing → fresh without washing
Store flat → prevents stretching
Avoid hanging on hangers
Check for wear and repair if necessary

Conclusion: with love for merino wool and your baby

Merino wool is a beautiful and practical material for baby clothes. It offers comfort, regulates temperature, and has self-cleaning properties. With proper care, it will stay beautiful for years to come.

With the tips in this guide, you'll know exactly how to keep your baby's merino wool products fresh and safe. Whether you have a Snuggle, booties, or a cardigan—they all deserve a little extra love and care.

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