Merino wool is one of the few fibers capable of adapting to diverse conditions: intense exertion, dry cold, temperature fluctuations, and long days in the mountains. Naturally antibacterial, thermoregulating, and soft, it is designed to last. However, like all natural materials, it requires special care. Proper maintenance of your merino garment preserves its key outdoor performance features: moisture management, heat retention without overheating, and lasting comfort even after hours of activity.
1. Why care for merino?
Merino’s scaly fiber structure allows it to absorb and release moisture, reduce odors, and maintain a stable temperature around the body. This fiber architecture is effective but sensitive to thermal shocks, harsh detergents, and aggressive spinning. Proper care ensures:
- Retention of fiber softness, essential for long-lasting comfort;
- Stability of the knit, which determines garment durability;
- Preservation of thermal properties: warmth in cold weather, coolness in mild conditions;
- Extended lifespan, even with intensive use.
Well maintained, merino ages slowly and retains its technical qualities season after season.
2. Washing: gentle and gradual
To avoid stressing the fiber during initial washes, we recommend:
- First five washes in cold water, without strong spinning;
- then a delicate cycle at a maximum of 30°C;
- washing inside out to reduce friction;
- using a wool-specific detergent free of enzymes and harsh agents.
Avoid machine spinning: high-speed spinning deforms fibers and weakens the knit. Do not wring the garment, as this breaks the merino structure.
3. Drying: preserving shape and fiber
Merino should dry naturally in the air. Dryer heat shrinks and felts the fiber. We recommend:
- Flat drying for heavier items (thicker layers like SHIRWALI),
- or hanger drying for lighter t-shirts (BIAFO, MEFONNA, MOLVENO, TENNO, LÉVICO).
Avoid radiators and direct heat sources, which damage the protein structure of the fiber.
4. Between washes: merino’s natural resilience
Merino has a rare property: it refreshes when aired. After an outing, simply:
- Air the garment for a few hours,
- and let it rest so odors dissipate.
This avoids unnecessary washing, extending garment life and preserving fiber qualities.
Conclusion
Caring for merino garments is neither complex nor time-consuming. It involves simple steps: gentle washing, limited spinning, natural drying, and regular airing. In return, merino retains what makes it valuable in the mountains and daily life: excellent moisture management, natural thermal regulation, and consistent comfort. Properly cared for, it becomes a reliable companion for long outdoor seasons.