DIY - Wool wash

diy low- and zero-waste slow living May 12, 2021

It’s getting to that time of year when my knitted sweaters are almost being packed away, and washing them in this wool wash is a great way to clean them, and also keep them free of moths.

Growing up in Australia one of the things that I learnt was how to make a great wool wash using a few simple ingredients. Along with being a great budget alternative to shop-bought washes what I really like about it is that it is also a natural moth deterrent.

DIY wool wash

You will need:

  • 4 cups of pure soap flakes (or grate some soap if you cant find flakes)

  • 1 cup of methylated spirits (or rubbing alcohol)

  • 50ml of eucalyptus oil (or lavender. Both of these essential oils repel insects)

Step 1

Mix the methylated spirits (or rubbing alcohol) with the soap flakes.

Step 2

Add the eucalyptus oil (or lavender) and stir.

Step 3

Store the wool wash in a wide necked jar.

 

To clean your knits using this wool wash, use one tablespoon of mixture per garment. Dissolve in a small quantity of hot water and then pour into a basin of lukewarm wash water. Soak garment.

There’s no need to rinse (but I do, the sweaters still smell lovely and fresh). Squeeze and roll in towel to remove excess water. Dry flat and out of direct sunlight.

Hi, I'm Kate!

I am a strong believer in starting where you are and using what you have, wherever and whatever that may be.

Everyone should get to experience the joy of connecting to others through learning, experimenting, and creating.

Creativity doesn’t have to be expensive or wasteful. Whether we’re using natural materials, reusing materials, or shopping our own stashes first, creating mindfully goes beyond being present in the moment - it extends to being mindful of our environment and the other communities around us, too.