As temperatures rise and wool layers make their way to the back of the closet, it's worth taking a few extra steps to ensure your Merino wool stays in great condition until cooler weather returns.
The good news? Merino wool is naturally resilient. Unlike many synthetic fabrics, it resists odors, regulates moisture, and can last for years with proper care. A little preparation before storage can help keep your favourite pieces looking and performing their best season after season.
1. Wash Before You Store
Even if a garment doesn't look dirty, body oils, sunscreen, food residue, and other invisible stains can attract insects and cause fibers to deteriorate over time.
Before storing your Merino wool for the season, wash it according to the care instructions and allow it to dry completely.
2. Make Sure Everything is Fully Dry
Before packing away your wool, ensure every piece of clothing is completely dry. Trapped moisture can create musty odours and, in rare cases, mildew.
When in doubt, allow garments to air dry for an extra day before storing.
3. Fold Instead of Hanging
For long-term storage, folding is generally better than hanging.
Wool can gradually stretch under its own weight, particularly heavier garments. Folding helps pieces maintain their shape and prevents shoulders from becoming misshapen.
Store folded garments loosely rather than tightly packed to help maintain their shape.
4. Protect Against Moths
This is the most important storage tip!
For seasonal storage, the safest bet is to store clean, completely dry garments in zip-top bags, vacuum-sealed bags, or airtight storage bins. Sealed storage creates a physical barrier that helps prevent moth damage and keeps garments clean until they're ready to wear again. Avoid over-compressing thicker wool and allow garments to relax and regain their shape after unpacking.
Moths can be attracted to wool that contain traces of body oils, sweat, or food residue, which is one of the reasons we want to make sure everything is clean before we put it away.
For additional peace of mind, I have friends who have had success with cedar blocks or lavender sachets, which can be placed near stored garments. Using these naturally scented tools is a great tactic for protecting clothes that you want access to throughout the year.
5. Check In Mid-Season
If your wool is stored for several months, it's worth doing a quick check once or twice over the summer.
Ensure garments remain dry, inspect for any signs of insects, and refold pieces if needed.
🖤 Shannon
