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Softening a Wool Throw

December 7, 2020 Tags: softening wool throw, taking care of wool, washing throws, wool blanket, wool blankets, Wool care, wool throw, wool throws No Comments

Do you have one particular wool throw that you love for its colours and pattern but that just feels too itchy to use? We at WoolMe produce sumptuously soft throws and blankets, but if you buy one elsewhere that isn’t pleasant on the skin, we’ve got the solution. Discover how to soften a wool throw and make it ultra-cosy and huggable.

how to care for wool throw

The softness of a wool throw will depends on the structure of the wool fibres. Different types of wool have varying sizes of fibres, measured in microns. The lower the micron value, the softer the wool. If you have a wool throw or blanket it’s probably partly due to having coarse fibres. But some chemicals used in wool processing can result in wool feeling uncomfortable to touch. To return it to its natural, pretreated softness, try this clever hack:

Learn this wool throw softening trick

Fill your bathroom tub with lukewarm water and add 1 tablespoon of a gentle, no-rinse wool detergent containing lanolin. This is a natural softener derived from sheep that creates the protective layer of waxy substance that is found on their wool fleeces. For an extra softness boost, add a nut-sized portion of leave-in hair conditioner to the water, and mix.
Gently swoosh the water around to combine the detergent and conditioner.
Place your wool throw in the tub and hold it under the water for a few seconds to ensure the fibres absorb the wash solution.
Leave the wool throw to soak for 15-20 minutes. Really thick wool may need to soak for up to half an hour.
Remove the throw from the tub, gently pressing out any water. Do not wring or pull the fabric. Lay it flat between two bedsheets or towels somewhere sheltered and warm to dry out. Avoid direct sunlight when drying any woollen garments.
Once your wool throw is dry it should be super-soft and snuggly. Perfect for curling up with on the sofa this Winter, or for adding an extra layer of comfy warmth to your bed. If you want even more softness, repeat the process.

how to soften a wool blanket

Knowing how to soften a wool throw is particularly useful if you have young children or sensitive skin. You can use the same technique on woolly jumpers or scarves too, just make sure you don’t pull the garment out of shape when wet.

Understanding how wool fibres work and how to care for wool products means you can get the best from your textiles. Not only will they feel lovely against your skin, they will stay strong and last longer, making them a sustainable choice for the modern home.

Find out more about looking after wool throws and blankets here.

Merino Wool Throws – How to Unshrink

November 1, 2020 Tags: how to unshrink a sweater, merino blanket, merino blankets, merino throw, merino throws, merino wool, merino wool blanket, merino wool blankets, merino wool sweaters, merino wool throw, merino wool throws, merino wool yarn, wool blanket, wool blankets, wool throw, wool throws 2 Comments

It’s the worst feeling isn’t it? You open the washing machine or dyer and realise your favourite wool sweater, cosy winter socks or beautiful merino wool throw has shrunk. But don’t despair. We can show you how to unshrink a sweater or wool throw and restore it to its former glory.

Shrinking a wool throw or a garment often happens when it is washed or tumble dried in unsuitably warm temperatures. It is still may be possible to restore the original size of your merino wool throw or garment. Depending on a range of factors, it is possible to increase your throw or sweater by as much as a size and a half using this process (which can also work for other wool knit objects).

So, what is this magic-sounding process? Follow these steps to unshrink a wool throw, and remember to be gentle with your wool throws, blankets and clothing in the future.

How to unshrink a sweater or wool throw

Fill a bath tub with lukewarm water – there should be enough water to cover the item you wish to unshrink.
Now a little trick: Take your hair conditioner and add a generous amount of it to the water. If you also want to freshen the wool throw, and some mild detergent. The secret is that the hair conditioner will relax and loosen the wool yarns. This will allow you to re-size the blanket or knit item without deteriorating its shape. Agitate the water well with your hands to dissolve and mix the detergent and hair conditioner.

unshrink merino wool throw

Submerge your merino wool throw or garment in the water and gently knead it for some time. Once you’ve worked the conditioner and detergent mixture into the fibers, drain the water from the bath tub.
Gently press the throw against the bottom and sides of the tub to remove the excess water, then take the item out from the tub.
Lay the throw flat on a large bath towel or linen throw (or any large piece of fabric) and place another piece of fabric on top. Press down and continue to squeeze water out of the throw until both the upper and lower pieces of fabric have absorbed most of the moisture. If necessary, repeat this with dry pieces of cloth or towels.

unshrink wool throw

Now the important part. Lay the wool throw on a flat soft surface (e.g. a rug or bed) and gently pull it back into the desired shape and size. Stretch it very gently in all directions, trying to make the edges straight and symmetrical. If you are unshrinking a wool sweater or cardigan, concentrate your efforts on the sleeves, bottom edges and neckline – or any areas you think have shrunk the most. Allow the item to lie flat for a few minutes, then repeat the stretching one or two more times before it dries completely.
To end the procedure, wash the throw in cold water by hand or using a gentle machine cycle on low temperatures to remove the leftovers of hair conditioner. Reshape it again and lie flat to dry before using.

With these simple steps you might just be able to unshrink your merino wool throw or lambswool blanket. To avoid this happening again, always read the manufacturer’s care instructions and use mild detergent. For tips on washing wool throws in washing machine here.

Mohair vs. Cashmere – Which One is Better for You?

October 17, 2020 Tags: cashmere, cashmere throw, mohair, mohair throw, What is cashmere, what is mohair, wool, wool throw, wool throws No Comments

With Autumn upon us and Winter approaching, our attention inevitably turns to finding new ways to keep ourselves warm. You’ve got the cosy socks and chunky knitwear, but on chilly evenings that’s not enough. One of the best ways to stay warm is a soft wool throw or blanket. With the huge variety of throws to choose from finding the right one for you and your home might feel a little overwhelming. But we are here to help.

One of the main considerations is to think about what type of wool to choose. Two of the most luxurious types – wool and mohair – make ideal throws and blankets. So, in this post we’re going to answer two questions: what is a mohair throw and what is a cashmere throw? And we’ll tell you some of the unique qualities and benefits of each.

Mohair throws: benefits at a glance

Mohair is produced from angora goats – not to be confused by the fabric we call angora, which is produced from the soft fur of angora rabbits.
Due to its softness and sheen, mohair feels lovely to touch and is considered to be a luxurious fibre. This makes it perfect for wool throws, as they are not only warm but also non-scratchy and comfortable.
Because of its unique structure, mohair is hypoallergenic which means that even people with wool allergies are likely not to be allergic to mohair. Warm, soft and pleasing to touch – no wonder mohair is one of the most beloved fabrics in the world for blankets and throws.

Cashmere throws: key features and qualities

Cashmere is another unique and luxe wool. Not prickly, deliciously soft and warm, cashmere is ideal for people with sensitive skins and for children.
A cashmere wool has superior insulating qualities yet isn’t bulky, which makes it perfect for any season. This natural fabric will keep you warm when it is cold and prevent overheating when temperatures rise.
Lightweight cashmere throws are easy to carry around as they fold up surprisingly small and weigh very little. Simply sling in your tote bag for a chilly evening dinner out, or pack for a weekend city break over the Winter holidays.

Read more about Cashmere: The Story of Luxury and why it’s such a sophisticated, sought-after fabric.

Whether you choose a mohair throw or a cashmere throw, both will keep you snuggly and cosy, and will feel luxurious against your skin. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to keep your throw looking its best.

5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Natural Bedding

January 24, 2020 Tags: choosing wool throws, improved sleep, natural bedding, Natural Fabrics, sustainable fibre, wool blankets, wool for skin No Comments

Modern life often makes a good night’s sleep seem impossible, with the intrusions of late-night emails and constant external noise. But there are steps you can take to ensure you get a better quality of sleep, and help improve your overall ed health with fildena – https://nizagara-online.net/fildena and wellbeing. And as the average person spends around one third of their lives in bed, it’s important that your sleeping environment is as healthy and nurturing as possible.

Here are five reasons why you should choose natural bedding as part of optimising your sleep:

Better sleep – Synthetic fabrics and padding release chemicals that can disrupt sleep and cause insomnia. Choosing linens, organic cotton and wool bedding ensures that you get deeper, more restorative sleep, without harmful pesticides or ingredients.
Fewer toxins – Not only does natural bedding help you sleep better, it also reduces the amount of toxins in your bedroom. If you’re trying to create a sanctuary-like space to relax in, you wouldn’t fill it with overpowering perfumes or chemicals, so why bring these in with your bedding? These chemicals, such as fire retardants, can trigger asthma and cause eye discomfort. But natural bedding is kind to the skin and non-toxic.
Keeps you more comfortable – Wool throws and mattress filling help regulate your body temperature, keeping your comfortable all night long. If you stay at optimum temperature you’re less likely to wake up during the night. Natural bedding can also help prevent excessive night sweating.
Good for the whole family – From young babies to the elderly, all can benefit from natural bedding. Linen and super soft wool feels lovely against the skin, and keeps you snug in colder weather.
More sustainable – Wool and linen bedding is more sustainable than synthetic bedding as it’s biodegradable and requires fewer resources to grow and process. These textiles are highly durable and long-wearing, which reduces the amount of fabric thrown away into landfill.

To read more on the environmental benefits of wool textiles go here, and to read about different types of wool try this or this.

Why Wool is Better For your Skin, as Well as the Planet

October 25, 2019 Tags: choosing wool throws, improved sleep, natural wool, soft wool, Wool care, wool for skin, wool throws No Comments

Many of us are becoming more aware of the horrifying amounts of plastic waste found in our seas and rivers. Some of the particles that find their way into the animal food chain are tiny fibres from polyester and other synthetic fabrics, released when we wash our clothes or bedlinen. Using only natural materials, like cotton, linen and wool in your home can help prevent releasing more plastic into the environment. And these fabrics can also benefit your skin. In this post we’ll be talking about why wool is better for your skin than synthetic fabrics.

Read on to discover why:

Wool is kinder to skin
Your skin will feel less sweaty when you wear wool
Wool blankets help regulate your body temperature, keeping skin comfy
Wool is beneficial for excema sufferers
The idea of wool being an alergen is false

Why wool is kinder to your skin

Recent research has explored how our skin reacts to wool compared with polyester. The study found that the patches of skin exposed to prolonged contact with wool were more hydrated and less inflamed than the areas covered with polyester. Meaning wool is a great choice if you tend to suffer redness and dryness, or if your skin is sensitive.

No more shiny, sweaty skin

Wool wicks away moisture from the skin and releases it back into the air, keeping your skin hydrated but not damp. Superfine wool base layers and wool scarves and hats will keep your skin moisturized but not sweaty or shiny.

Wool blankets regulate body temperature

Not only does wool let your skin breathe, it also traps and then releases heat, keeping your body at the optimal temperature. One UK study stated that as well as sleeping under woollen blankets we should also consider using wool duvets as an alternative to synthetic or feather and down fillings. Again, this is because wool has been proven to keep your body temperature steadier as you snooze, making for a better night’s sleep.

Excema sufferers can benefit from wool

Contrary to the perception some people have of wool being itchy, it can actually be beneficial for people suffering with skin conditions like excema. A study published in 2017 revealed that when people in the trial wore superfine merino wool next to their skin, their symptoms improved. Essaylamba.com researchers think this is connected to how wool displaces moisture from the skin that can result in overdrying, redness and soreness.

Wool is not an alergen

It has been claimed that wool can cause allergies, but researchers have established that this is a myth. Instead, they attributed any symptoms of itchiness or discomfort to the size of the fibres in a fabric rather than the fact that it was wool.

So, for comfortable, calm and happy skin, try wrapping yourself if a cozy wool throw this Fall, or snuggling under a soft wool blanket. Your skin will thank you for it. And you’ll be doing your bit to help the environment too.

Beautiful Wool Throws You’ll Love this Fall

September 20, 2019 Tags: autumn, fall colors, new collection, recycling, sustainable fibre, wool blankets, wool for fall, wool throws No Comments

We’re going to let you into a secret: we actually LOVE it when the weather gets cooler and the nights start drawing in. Summer is wonderful, but there’s something so homely and comforting about Fall, with the promise of open fires, hot chocolate, warm knits and hot-water bottles to toast our feet on at night. As the seasons turn from summer into autumn, we’ve created eight stunning new designs for our wool throw collection.

These earth-toned new throws reflect the changes we see in Nature: leaves turning to russets, damp mosses crawling over stones, bare brown branches revealed on windy days. In this appealing, muted palette each design boasts subtle patterns and weaves, bringing texture and interest to your home.

Crafted from pure wool, cotton blends and mixes of wool and recycled polyester, these throws make the perfect companion on a chilly Fall evening. Snug yet soft, colourful yet subtle, they work beautifully draped over linen bedlinen in muted tones or rich autumnal shades, or casually strewn across a sofa for extra evening comfort. And thanks to our commitment to sustainable production, the use of recycled fibres means you can treat yourself without worrying about waste.

Here’s our pick of our top four wool throws from the new collection, but as you’ll see, they are all gorgeous.

Lorenzo

Crafted from from 35% lambswool, 35% cotton and 30% recycled polyester this is a lightweight yet snug throw in a two-way colour scheme: natural on one side and in a choice of spa green, terracotta or choco on the other.

It would look amazing alongside a set of rustic linen cushions or draped over a set of linen bedlinen in rich greens or deep greys.

Donato

In a classic tartan plaid but in soft, understated colours, our Donato throw adds texture and pattern without overpowering a space. And it’s crafted from 100% pure wool, which means it will keep you and your loved ones cosy for years to come.

Pair it with a neutral linen duvet cover or use blue cushions to bring out the accents.

Paula

In exquisite silver, ivory and grey colorways the Paula throw adds a touch of class to any interior. In 100% pure wool, it’s an elegant blanket that’s perfect for curling up under, or wearing over your shoulders on a Fall evening outside.

These colors work with most interior color schemes, offering great versatility with a sophisticated finish.

Roberto

With a wide range of colorways, you can choose the perfect throw for your needs. Bright and cheerful? Yes! Earthy and subtle? Yes too! Tranquil and calm? Yes again! And thanks to the 100% pure wool you’ll have years of warmth and softness.

Browse our range of sumptuous wool throws and blankets for your essential hyggeligt home addition this season. Stock up on candles, good books, lovely teas and some winter socks and you’ll have a cozy, snug Fall.

Why Wool is Wonderful in the Bedroom

February 15, 2019 Tags: bedroom decoration, improved sleep, interior design, sustainable fibre, thermal properties of wool, types of wool, wool blankets, wool throw No Comments

Like your favourite pair of jeans or simple white t-shirt, some things can be counted on to work, time and time again. A wool throw or blanket is one of these trusty companions, whether used as an extra layer of warmth on your bed or tucked over the sofa for cosy evenings in front of the TV.

There’s really nothing better, and simpler, to add to your home. And you can even use a wool throw as the starting point for your interior decoration, particularly in the bedroom. Start with finding the best quality, most luxurious blanket you can get, then pick out colours from the pattern or, if it’s in a block colour, use this as the basis for your palette. Draped over your bed in winter it will pull together the whole space, and in warmer months you can use it instead of the duvet or fold it over just the bottom section of the bed.

A wool throw is a timeless addition to your home, and can create a cosy, homely feel in the bedroom. Conjuring up memories of childhood picnics, travel adventures, camping trips and family movie nights, there is something wonderfully nostalgic about a woolly blanket. And it’s perfect for an intimate, quiet space such as a bedroom.

Whilst the initial outlay may be more than the price of a synthetic throw, you will get many years more use from a quality wool throw, as well as all the inherent natural advantages of this magical fibre.

Not only is wool a sustainable choice for bedding, it can actually help you sleep better. This is due to wool’s temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking properties, which keep you comfortable and sleeping more deeply. Research has also shown that not only do people sleep more deeply with wool bedding, they also fall asleep more quickly. And all members of the family can benefit too: studies have revealed that babies also sleep more soundly when lying on top of a wool underlay or topper.

Bedrooms can attract high levels of condensation, particularly in winter, as we release lots of water as we breathe throughout the night. A wool blanket is mildew and mold resistant, so will keep your bedroom looking and smelling fresh. Wool is also antimicrobial, naturally fire-retardant and very easy to clean, making it an ideal choice for bedding.

A stunning wool throw will not only enhance the look of your bedroom, it will help you feel better too, improving your quality of sleep and making you feel safe and snug.

And Breathe! Why Wool is the Natural Choice

January 17, 2019 Tags: 100% wool, natural wool, temperature regulation, thermal properties of wool, wool base layers, wool blanket, wool insulation, wool throw No Comments

Do you ever find that sometimes the simplest solution is right there, under your nose? While scientists and researchers strive to develop ever-more innovative new fabrics and materials for fashion and interiors, we think the best and most natural choice is one that we’ve used and enjoyed for thousands of years: wool.

Not only is wool a more sustainable, biodegradable fabric than synthetics, it also works in harmony with your body. So you can stay comfortable, warm and cosy without overheating. The main reason that we don’t get unpleasantly hot (unlike when wearing some manmade fibres) with wool is that it allows your skin to breathe. In fact, it’s almost as if wool itself is breathing. Here’s how it works:

Wool’s natural absorbency

Wool has a very high absorbency, which means it wicks away sweat and moisture from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable. This moisture is slowly released back into the air, meaning you avoid the chills and shivers that can occur after exercise when you start to cool off. As the body’s humidity reduces, the process of absorbing moisture creates warmth within the wool – it has been claimed that 1kg of dry wool can generate the same amount of heat as an electric blanket heated for eight hours!

By releasing warm moisture into the air, rather than allowing it to stick to the skin, wool helps regulate your body temperature. As moisture is released and heat is generated, the ensuing evaporation cools the body.

Insulating properties

Because the fibres in wool are crimped, they trap air in tiny pockets. This creates an insulating layer, which is why wool is not only great for clothing and blankets, but also makes excellent wall insulation in the home. This is why wool is often found in jackets or used to create fine undergarments for people in extreme or changeable temperatures, like mountain climbing.

Odour resistance

Another amazing quality of woollen fabrics, according to azithromycin.net is the anti-microbial function. Thanks to wool’s ability to release moisture back into the air more quickly and effectively than many synthetics, sweat doesn’t stick around long enough for bacteria to form. Which means no unpleasant odours, just a fresh feeling. Whether you’re skiing at altitude or riding the rush hour commute, choosing wool means you’ll stay just the right temperature.

So, whether you’re looking for a lightweight base layer, a wool scarf for winter, or want to find a cosy wool throw to hunker down on chilly evenings, wool is the natural choice. From finest luxurious cashmere to sumptuously soft merino wool, there’s a good reason why humans have loved and used wool throughout history. It’s not only temperature-regulating, it’s also easy to care for. Simply follow the care instructions on each garment, dry flat and out of sunlight, and gently remove any pilling. If looked after properly your woollen blankets and clothing will last for years, keeping you cosy and comfortable whatever the weather – and life – may throw at you.

How to Deal With Pilling and Bobbling on Wool

December 11, 2018 Tags: caring for wool, how to prevent pilling, Wool care No Comments

If your wool clothes or home textiles have annoying bobbling or are looking older than they should, we’ve got some tips on how to prevent and get rid of pilling. Caused by broken fibres bunching together to form tiny balls, pills and bobbles often occur in areas of high friction, like the cuffs and armpits of sweaters. Pilling is more common in mixed fibre textiles, especially those that include polyester. Synthetic fibres are more prone to bobbling, so choose natural fabrics like linen or wool whenever possible.

Once a garment has bobbles the little balls will just keep on getting bigger, as other broken fibres from different items are attracted to them. This can result in pills that are different colours than the original garment, as bits of fluff and fuzz from other things become attached to the existing bobbles.

Thankfully, pilling is pretty easy to deal with. Firstly, it’s important to try to avoid it in the first place. Here’s how to avoid pilling on wool garments:

Wash the item inside out on a gentle/ wool cycle, or hand wash if possible. The less friction it meets the less it will bobble.
Use a specialist detergent for wool or delicates.
Don’t overload your washing machine as this can damage the fibres, and wash delicates with other similar items rather than harder-wearing garments like denim, or things with zips.
Use a fabric conditioner. This will coat the wool fibres and reduce static and friction.
Air dry, don’t tumble dry. Heat and friction will damage the fibres and cause pilling.
Never use bleach on wool items as this weakens the fibres and can make them more likely to break and pill.

If your beloved wool sweater or woollen blanket does have some bobbling and needs perking up, here are some tips on getting rid of pilling:

Use a fabric comb or electric fabric shaver to carefully remove the bobbles.
Using a sharp standard razor, hold the garment taut and gently shave off the pills. Collect the cut-offs with a lint roller or adhesive tape.
For mild pilling adhesive tape, a head lice comb or a velcro hair roller are effective (and cheap) ways to remove pills.
If you’re travelling and need a quick bobble fix, use the rough part of a velcro fastening to remove bobbles from an item.

For more tips on how to care for wool clothes and throws, and on how to treat stains go here and here.

From Lambs to Lagom: Why wool is everywhere this Spring

March 16, 2018 Tags: benefits of merino wool, benefits of wool, cashmere blanket, lambswool, merino wool, wool for all seasons, wool for spring, wool throws No Comments

There are few more happy-making things than seeing new lambs frolicking in their fields. As Spring approaches we take a celebratory look at why wool is everywhere this season, from lambs to lagom.

Lambswool

Fluffy white lambs are one of the traditional Eastertime symbols, adorning cards and merchandising everywhere. We love their carefree tumbling and their gangly legs, and they represent rebirth and renewal as the seasons turn. While these new additions won’t be shorn in their first year, their fleeces will be perfect for shearing next year. This will produce the supersoft lambswool so beloved by fashion and home textile makers. The older sheep will be shorn shortly after the lambing season is over, ready for the warmer weather. This wool will then be sorted, washed, picked and combed in preparation for dyeing. The lifecycle of your wool throw or cosy sweater begins with these little bundles of fun gambolling around the countryside.

Lagom

Replacing ‘hygge‘ as the new Scandi-inspired trend, ‘lagom’ offers more than a moment of comfort or happiness. The concept of lagom comes from Sweden and is a longer-term idea of finding balance and peace by just having enough. Translated it means ‘just the right amount’. To live with lagom means to avoid excessive consumerism, to create a balance between work and personal time, to be moderate and frugal. It has inspired people to live more sustainably, choosing clothes and homewares that have a reduced impact on the environment. Like natural wool. Living more sustainably means buying good quality items that will have a long lifetime, things that are produced with are as free from harm as possible. Wool is a durable, long-lasting material, and means that those investment pieces, like wool picnic blankets or baby throws, will keep on looking beautiful for years. There’s a simplicity to wool that chimes perfectly with the idea of lagom. Just right.

Lightweight wool

As the weather warms up you may not need your really chunky knitwear but there is still a place for woollies. Spring can bring sudden changes in temperature, with snowfall and frosts still a possibility. The answer here is to wear layers and to include lightweight wool garments made from merino wool. This is less bulky whilst retaining all the benefits of wool: temperature regulation, moisture wicking, durable, dirt-repellant. You can get highly sophisticated sportswear ‘skins’ made from merino wool to wear as a base layer, or opt for a simple transitional piece like a merino sweater paired with a linen shirt or bigger cardigan if it’s chilly.

Lazy evenings

Despite the fact that the evenings are lighter for longer, there is still something delicious about curling up indoors under a warm, soft wool throw after a long day. Whether you love to read or catch up with the latest Instagram stories, creating a moment of stillness and cosiness in the evening is great for your wellbeing. It’s not quite warm enough to sit outside in the evenings where we are, but it won’t be long. And you can be sure we’ll have blankets, hot drinks and food at the ready.

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