Kenilworth Dry Cleaners: Preparing your woolens for winter

Preparing your woolens for winter is essential to ensure they keep you warm and cozy during the colder months. Wool garments are known for their excellent insulation properties, but they require some care and attention to maintain their quality. Here's a step-by-step guide from Kenilworth Dry Cleaners on how to get your wools ready for winter:

1. Clean Your Woolens:

Before storing or wearing your woolens for the season, it's crucial to clean them. Wool fibers can trap dirt, oils, and odors over time. Follow these cleaning steps:

• Check the Care Labels: Read the care labels on your wool garments for specific cleaning instructions. Some woolens may be machine washable, while others require dry cleaning.

• Hand Wash: If machine washing is not recommended, opt for hand washing. Use cold water and a mild wool-specific detergent. Gently agitate the water and avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, which can cause stretching.

• Machine Wash: If the care label allows machine washing, use a gentle cycle with cold water and a wool-friendly detergent. Use a laundry bag to protect delicate items.

• Dry Cleaning: For delicate woolens like suits or tailored coats, professional dry cleaning is often the safest option.

2. Dry Your Woolens:

Proper drying is crucial to prevent wool garments from stretching or losing shape:

• Lay Flat to Dry: Lay your woolens flat on a clean, dry towel to air dry. Avoid hanging them, as this can lead to stretching.

• Shape Them: While drying, gently reshape the garment to its original form. This helps maintain its fit and appearance.

• Keep Away from Direct Sunlight: Avoid exposing your woolens to direct sunlight, as it can cause fading.

3. Store Woolens Properly:

Correct storage is vital to protect your woolens from moths, mildew, and dust:

• Clean Before Storage: Ensure your woolens are completely clean and dry before storing them. Storing dirty garments can attract pests and lead to odors.

• Use Airtight Containers: Consider using airtight storage containers to protect against moths and pests. Place cedar or lavender sachets inside the containers for extra protection.

• Hang or Fold: Some woolens are better hung on padded hangers, while others should be folded. For items like sweaters, folding is often a better choice to prevent stretching at the shoulders.

• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Choose a storage area that is cool, dry, and well-ventilated. Avoid damp basements or attics.

4. Prevent Moth Damage:

Wool is a natural fiber that can attract moths. To prevent moth damage:

• Use Cedar or Lavender: Place cedar blocks, cedar balls, or lavender sachets in your storage area to repel moths.

• Regularly Inspect: Periodically check your stored woolens for any signs of moth damage, such as small holes or larvae casings.

5. Rotate Your Woolens:

Rotate your woolen garments during the winter season to ensure they all receive equal wear. This prevents excessive wear on a single item.

6. Mend and Repair:

Check your woolens for any loose threads, missing buttons, or small holes. Mend and repair these issues promptly to prevent further damage.

By following these steps, you'll ensure that your woolens are in great condition when winter arrives, keeping you warm and stylish throughout the season. Proper care and maintenance will extend the life of your wool garments, allowing you to enjoy their comfort and warmth for many winters to come.