Fabric made of matted, compressed fibers using heat, moisture, and agitation. Typically made of wool or synthetics such as acrylic.
Prep & Pretreat
Before washing your felt item, be sure to check the tag for recommendations. If it indicates "do not wash" or "dry clean only", it's best to take it to the professionals. Otherwise, you can proceed with gentle wash methods. Keep in mind heavily structured items, like a felt jacket, should not be washed at home as it can warp their construction.
Whether hand or machine washing washable felt, always use a stain treatment appropriate for woolens. Gently work in to the fabric using a Stain Brush.
Yes, it is possible to wash felt fabric. Handwashing is always the best and safest method for washing felt accessories, blankets, and other items. Felt is sensitive to water temperature and agitation, and it can shrink if not treated properly.
- Add Wool & Cashmere Shampoo to a basin or sink filled with cool water.
- Submerge the item and gently agitate the water with your hands to evenly distribute detergent.
- Soak for up to 30 minutes. Do not soak for longer, as overexposure to water can affect the fabric.
- Rinse well by running cool water through the item until the water is no longer soapy.
- Do not wring. Instead, press the water out of the item.
Can you wash felt in the machine? Yes! Some felt items, like a felt hat, can be laundered in the washing machine using a delicate setting.
- Turn the item inside out, and place it in a Mesh Bag to add a layer of protection.
- Felt needs to be washed on a delicate cycle. Select the woolens or delicate cycle on the washing machine, and make sure the water temperature is cold and the spin is on low.
- Add the appropriate amount of Wool & Cashmere Shampoo according to the machine and load size.
- Remove promptly from the washing machine to reduce creasing.
Lay the item flat in its natural shape on a drying rack or clean towel. Do not put it in the dryer!
Expedite drying by laying the item flat on a clean towel. With the item in its original shape, roll it up in the towel (like a sleeping bag) to remove excess water.
When drying, avoid direct sunlight and heat sources, such as the radiator, because they can yellow, shrink, or damage woolens. Never hang wet felt or woolens.
To remove wrinkles, we recommend steaming for the best and safest finish.
Felt generally doesn't pill much. If you want to remove pills from felt, glide a sweater comb across targeted areas. Always work the tool in one direction.
When wool fibers become loose, they form little balls or pills. Pilling is a direct result of friction (which naturally occurs with movement), so the more you wear an item, the more likely it is to pill.
- Felt should be stored folded to prevent stretching or distorting. Store jackets and suits using a solid structured hanger.
- Wool and cashmere are susceptible to insect damage. Always store items clean.
- Store in a breathable cotton storage bag with a zip closure. Storing in plastic encourages yellowing and can trap mildew-causing moisture, a prime environment for bugs.
All techniques are based on textile science. Not all garments perform and react as science would predict.
