FABRIC CARE

Keep Merino at its best.

Merino wool care is simple — this natural fibre is soft, breathable, and long-lasting. With the right steps, you'll know exactly how to wash, dry, and store your Mason William pieces for years.

1. Washing your wool

1. Washing your wool

Care instructions

  • Machine wash on a gentle cycle (max 30°C)
  • Use a wool-specific detergent
  • Place it in a laundry bag — recommended to protect garments from zippers or rougher items
  • Do not bleach or tumble dry
  • Do not wring, twist, or rub
  • Dry flat in the shade
  • Do not use fabric softener
  • Do not apply detergent directly onto the garment
2. Drying

2. Drying

Dry flat in the shade

After washing, reshape your garment and lay it flat to dry. Avoid direct sunlight or a tumble dryer — both can cause shrinkage or felting.

Don't hang heavy wet items

Wet wool can stretch out of shape if hung. Reshape and dry flat to preserve the garment's structure.

3. Ironing your wool

3. Ironing your wool

Merino wool has natural elasticity, so most of the time it doesn't need ironing at all. After washing, simply lay your garment flat to dry — it will often bounce back into shape on its own.

Tips for easy ironing

  • Use the 'Wool' setting — a low heat with steam. If your iron has no wool option, use a cool temperature with a steaming cloth to protect the fabric.
  • Steam to iron out folds — light steam relaxes the fibres and smooths wrinkles; a quick pass is usually all it takes.
  • Avoid ribbed hems and cuffs — these are meant to stretch and recover naturally; ironing them can flatten their structure.
4. Storing your wool garments

4. Storing your wool garments

Merino wool is a natural protein fibre — soft, breathable, and biodegradable. But like all natural fibres, it needs proper care when not in use.

How to store your Mason William pieces

  • Always store clean — moths and bacteria are drawn to microscopic stains, including sweat or skin oils. Wash garments before storing for the season.
  • Use a sealed bag or box — store in a breathable, sealed garment bag or container to keep pests out and your wool fresh.
  • Freeze to be safe — to kill any potential larvae or eggs, seal your garments in a bag and freeze overnight before long-term storage.
  • Add natural deterrents — herbal sachets, a bar of soap, cedar balls, or moth repellents help keep insects at bay.
  • Avoid hanging heavy knits — fold jumpers and heavier items to prevent stretching. Lighter pieces like scarves or hats can be hung if preferred.
5. Help! Small holes have appeared

5. Help! Small holes have appeared

Don't worry — this is a common issue with natural fibres and doesn't mean your garment is faulty.

The most likely causes

  • Harsh detergents with bleach or enzymes can weaken merino fibres, leading to holes after washing.
  • Moths and silverfish are the most common culprits — their larvae feed on high-protein fibres like merino, creating tiny holes that show up after wearing or washing.
  • These insects can affect just one item even if stored with others, and may come from travel, retail, or seasonal storage — not necessarily from your home.

To prevent this

  • Always wash garments before storing.
  • Use sealed storage bags or boxes.
  • Consider freezing items before long-term storage to kill any hidden larvae (optional).
6. Repairs & mending

6. Repairs & mending

A little wear and tear is a natural part of a well-loved garment — small holes, fraying edges, seam wear or the occasional stain don't mean it's time to say goodbye.

One of the best solutions for minor damage is invisible mending — a discreet stitching technique that closes small holes (like those from moths or snags) and strengthens the surrounding fabric to prevent further fraying. Done well, it's nearly invisible from both the inside and outside.

Most seamstresses, specialist dry cleaners, or clothing alteration experts offer invisible mending at an affordable price. It's a small step that can greatly extend the life of your favourite pieces.

With the right merino wool care routine — from washing to storage — your Mason William Merino pieces will stay soft, comfortable, and timeless for years to come.