Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to prepare your wool garments for storage until the fall. To preserve the quality of your favorite pieces, proper care and thoughtful storage are essential. At Jourdain, we’re sharing our best tips to help extend the life of your woollens — along with an exclusive professional mending service that’s truly worth discovering.

6 Essential Tips for Storing Your Woollens

1. Less washing, more airing out

Wool is naturally antibacterial. There's no need to wash it after every wear. Instead, hang your sweaters in fresh air to eliminate odors and refresh the fibers without damaging them.

Frequent washing can weaken fibers and accelerate wear. Airing your garments is a simple, effective, and much gentler alternative.

2. Wash gently

Use a no-rinse detergent like Eucalan (available in-store), specially formulated for delicate fibers.

• Hand wash in lukewarm water (30°C) or use your washing machine’s wool cycle
• Do not soak your wool garments
• Avoid vigorous rubbing or twisting

Pro tip: If the water feels too cold for your hands, it’s too cold for wool. Always use comfortably warm water.

If you are less comfortable caring for wool, you can absolutely entrust your garments to a professional cleaner. Choose a trusted specialist and always follow the care label instructions. Some pieces require hand washing, while others are strictly dry clean only.

3. Gently press and dry flat

Roll the garment in a towel to remove excess water, then lay it flat to dry away from direct sunlight. Never use a tumble dryer: it can cause shrinking or distort the fibers.

4. Prevent moths

Moths are attracted to natural fibers but prefer dirty garments. Clean, dry woollens are far less likely to be damaged.

• Wash and dry your garments before storing them
• Store woollens in fabric bags or airtight containers
• Avoid regular plastic bags that trap moisture
• Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets as natural repellents

5. Fold rather than hang

Wool garments can stretch or lose shape if hung for too long. Fold them neatly and store flat in a well-ventilated area.

6. Inspect before storing: consider repairs

Now is the perfect time to inspect your garments. If you notice a hole, burn, or loose knit, have it repaired before storing.

Practical tip: For a pulled thread, a small crochet hook can make all the difference. Insert it gently from the inside of the garment where the loop has come loose, catch the thread, and pull it back through. Then carefully adjust the surrounding stitches to rebalance the knit. This simple technique can fix small snags quickly and effectively.

Invisible Repairs: Professional Mending by Manon Pelletier

At Jourdain, we believe that quality garments deserve a second life. That’s why we work with Manon Pelletier, a specialist in invisible mending. She expertly repairs holes, burns, snags, and damaged knits — restoring your wool pieces with care and precision for results that are invisible to the eye.

How to Have Your Woollens Repaired

We act as a drop-off point for your repair items. Here’s how to proceed:

• Clean your garments before bringing them in
• Clearly mark the areas to be repaired (with a small pin or contrasting thread)
• Drop them off at the Jourdain boutique or at our partner location:

Nettoyeur Laurier Plus
2700, boul. Laurier (Walmart entrance #6)
Quebec, QC G1V 2L8

Contact: Manon Pelletier – 418-688-7841

Eucalan Detergent: Ideal for Wool

Available in-store, Eucalan is a no-rinse detergent that is gentle on hands and perfect for wool garments. It respects natural fibers and simplifies care — an essential product to help extend the life of your clothing.

FAQ – Wool Care

Can wool garments be machine washed?

In some cases, wool can be machine washed, but it must be done with caution. Use a wool cycle, low temperature (around 30°C), and very gentle spinning. However, not all machines properly control temperature and agitation. For delicate or high-quality wool, hand washing remains the safest option.

Why is hand washing recommended for wool?

Hand washing allows full control over water temperature, soaking time, and garment handling. This greatly reduces the risk of felting, shrinking, and fiber damage. It is the gentlest method, especially for premium wool pieces.

Can I use the delicate cycle instead of the wool cycle?

No. The delicate cycle is usually longer and more agitated than a true wool cycle, with stronger spinning. This can damage fibers and cause felting. If your machine doesn’t have a wool cycle, hand washing is strongly recommended.

What water temperature is best for washing wool?

Lukewarm water, around 30°C (or between 20–30°C), is ideal. Sudden temperature changes between washing and rinsing can cause irreversible felting. Using a no-rinse detergent like Eucalan helps maintain a stable temperature and reduces handling.

How long should wool soak?

5 to 10 minutes is usually sufficient. Avoid prolonged soaking, as it can weaken fibers. Always handle the garment gently without rubbing or twisting.

What products should be used for wool?

A gentle detergent designed for wool is essential. Products like Eucalan clean effectively while preserving the integrity of natural fibers. Regular detergents are often too harsh and can damage the fabric.

How often should wool be washed?

Wool can be worn multiple times before washing. It naturally resists odors and requires less frequent care. Overwashing can lead to premature wear, so airing garments between uses is recommended.

How can I freshen wool without washing it?

Airing garments outdoors or in a well-ventilated space is often enough to remove odors and refresh fibers. Light steaming can also help restore shape without washing.

Why should wool not go in the dryer?

Heat and agitation can cause severe shrinking and felting. Always air dry wool garments flat to maintain their shape and texture.

How should wool be dried properly?

After washing, roll the garment in a towel to remove excess water. Lay it flat on a clean surface and reshape it gently. Avoid hanging, as the weight of water can stretch the fibers.

How do you prevent moth damage?

Always store clean, dry garments. Use breathable storage solutions, avoid plastic bags, and consider cedar or lavender as natural repellents. A clean environment is your best defense.

What should I do with a pulled thread?

A pulled thread can often be fixed using a small crochet hook or needle to gently bring the loop back inside the garment. Never cut the thread. For more complex repairs, professional mending is highly recommended.

A Sustainable Wardrobe Starts with Thoughtful Care

By caring for your woollens now, you’ll find them in perfect condition when temperatures drop again. It’s also a meaningful way to consume more responsibly, extend the life of what you love, and reduce textile waste.