Here at Rock/Creek, Merino wool is our favorite miracle fiber. On top of its luxurious softness and multi-day odor resistance, it’s sustainable, ultra-versatile and manages moisture like no other. As if all that weren’t enough, Merino dries quickly and insulates in all conditions, making it a top choice for socks, baselayers and active insulation.

If you’re already enjoying Merino’s miraculous power, here’s our field guide to keeping your Merino piece as strong as your sense of adventure.

DISCLAIMER: While these guidelines are generally the best practices for taking care of Merino wool, instructions vary from one garment to another. Always consult the care instructions on the garment for manufacturer’s recommendations.

Washing and Drying:

One of the best things about Merino wool? It’s naturally odor- and stain-resistant, so it won’t need to be washed as frequently as other materials. Often times a good airing out or spot cleaning session will do the trick. That’s right– We’re saying you can wear that base layer for multiple days (or even weeks) before tossing it in the wash.

• Flip your socks or garments inside out and wash in warm or cool water using a mild or diluted detergent.
• Avoid bleach, as the chemicals will destroy the Merino fibers.
• Avoid fabric softeners, which coat the material and will cause wool to lose its breathability.

As for drying, we recommend air-drying Merino clothes and socks on a flat surface, saving energy and increasing the longevity of your gear.  If you need to machine dry, you’ll want to use a low heat setting, as excessive heat may shrink Merino. If your garment does become distorted, gently reshape it by hand while it’s still damp.

Storage:

If you’re the type to pack up and store your out-of-season clothes, make sure to take these precautions to keep your Merino items strong for years to come.

• Clean each piece and allow it to dry fully to avoid moth damage
• Store Merino wool as flat as possible, with as few folds as possible
• Avoid hanging Merino wool – hanging tends to reshape these garments
• Choose plastic bins over cardboard boxes
• Extra Credit: Toss in a piece of aromatic cedar wood

Heat and Other Care: 

Most wool clothing can be ironed on a low setting, but hanging your garment for a little while or steaming it are generally better ways to remove wrinkles. Merino keeps its shape remarkably well, so you’ll find that you rarely need to do this.

We also recommend washing performance Merino at home, and never dry cleaning it. It’ll save you money and extend the life of your gear.

Again, while these guidelines are generally the best practices for taking care of Merino wool, instructions vary from one garment to another. Always consult the care instructions on the garment for manufacturer’s recommendations.