Wool Care Guide
Wool bedding is durable and, with the right care, can last for many years. Wool also behaves differently from cotton or synthetic fill: heat, water temperature changes and agitation can make wool fibers shrink and felt. This guide covers general care for wool comforters, pillows and mattress toppers. Always follow the care label and the instructions that come with your product first, because they can differ between makers and products.
Start with the basics: air it out
If your wool bedding is not soiled, regular airing is often all it needs. On a dry, sunny day, hang the item outside, give it a good shake, and flip it after a couple of hours so each side gets air. Bring it in before evening dew settles. Frankenmuth Woolen Mill, the maker of our wool comforters, pillows and toppers, recommends this kind of airing and sunning to freshen wool bedding between washes.
Spot cleaning
For small marks, treat only the stained area with a color-safe spot remover or a mild, wool-safe detergent, and blot gently. Avoid rubbing hard, which can damage the cotton cover and the wool fill.
Washing a wool comforter at home
For the Frankenmuth wool comforters we carry, the maker's guidance is to hand wash rather than use a washing machine. In general terms for hand washing wool bedding:
- Use a bathtub or laundry tub with lukewarm water and a mild, wool-safe detergent.
- Gently place the item in the water and soak it. Do not twist, wring or agitate it.
- Keep the water temperature the same for the wash and the rinse, because sudden temperature changes can cause shrinking.
- Press the water out gently. Do not wring.
Do not use a washer or dryer, including a hand-wash cycle, unless your product's care label says it is allowed. Dry cleaning is generally not recommended for wool bedding.
Drying
Line dry or air dry the item flat until it is completely dry before using or storing it. Drying can take a day or two depending on conditions. Never apply direct heat or use a tumble dryer.
Professional cleaning
If you would rather not wash a wool comforter yourself, some makers offer professional laundering for their own products. Check the maker's instructions for your item.
Cotton covers and duvet covers
A cotton duvet cover is a simple way to keep a wool comforter clean, because the cover can be laundered more often than the comforter. Follow the care label on the cover itself.
Storage
Store wool bedding clean and fully dry in a breathable bag or cotton storage cover, in a cool, dry place. Avoid sealed plastic, which can trap moisture.
Shop wool bedding
Browse our wool comforters and duvet inserts, wool pillows, wool mattress toppers and wool bedding sets. Questions about shipping and returns? See our FAQ & shipping page.