Proudly Kiwi Owned & Operated
Bushbuck is proudly New Zealand-owned and operated. Based in Christchurch, New Zealand, all of our gear is also designed and tested in New Zealand.
Our StoryGear up now and pay later with Afterpay & Zip. Make your first payment today and the rest over the next four to six weeks. And best of all, there are no additional fees if you pay on time.
Shop NowJoin for free today and enjoy everyday Club discounts, earn reward points on every dollar you spend and gain access to exclusive member-only offers.
Join the ClubA quick guide to washing and drying merino wool clothing safely, without shrinking or causing damage.
Merino wool clothing is one of the best choices for hiking and outdoor adventures. It’s breathable, moisture-wicking, temperature-regulating, and naturally odour-resistant, making it perfect for long days of sweating it out on the trail.
But to make your merino gear last, you need to know how to wash and care for it properly. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to clean, dry, and store merino wool clothing to keep it performing at its best in every season.
Merino wool fibres are finer, softer, and more elastic than traditional wool, which is what makes them so comfortable for hiking base layers. But that same softness comes with a trade-off: merino is more delicate than synthetic fabrics and can be easily damaged if washed incorrectly.
Here’s what can go wrong if you don’t wash merino wool properly:
Shrinkage from heat: Hot water or tumble drying can cause merino fibres to shrink and tighten, a process known as felting. This can permanently reduce stretch, softness, and fit.
Fibre breakdown from harsh detergents: Enzyme-based or alkaline detergents (common in regular laundry soaps) can weaken the protein structure of merino wool, causing it to lose strength, become brittle, or pill prematurely.
Loss of shape and drape: Rough machine cycles or hanging wet merino garments can stretch them out, leading to a warped fit, especially at the shoulders and hems.
Build-up and breathability loss: Fabric softeners and residue from unsuitable detergents can coat the fibres, reducing their natural ability to wick moisture, regulate temperature, and breathe.
All it takes is the right approach: gentle washing, the correct detergent, and proper drying. Do that, and your merino wool gear will keep delivering comfort, performance, and reliability no matter where the trail leads.
Here we cover two methods for washing merino wool clothing safely and correctly: machine wash and hand wash.
Not all merino garments are created equal. Some are blended with synthetics for added strength. Always check the label for specific instructions. Generally, it’s best to wash your merino gear separately or with other wool clothing.
Stick to cold or lukewarm water, 30°C (86°F) max. Hot water can shrink or damage the fibres. We also recommend using a more modern washing machine without an agitator that could damage your merino clothing.
Choose a detergent that’s:
pH neutral Free from bleach and enzymes
Specifically made for wool (like Woolmark-approved products)
Avoid regular laundry powder and fabric softeners. These can coat the fibres and reduce breathability.
Select the wool or delicate cycle on your washing machine.
Fill a sink or bucket with cold or warm water (max 30°C / 86 °F). Hot water can shrink your merino clothing.
Mix in a small amount of a laundry liquid or powder that’s safe for wool. It should be pH-neutral, enzyme free and specifically formulated for wool. Don’t use bleach, fabric softener, or regular laundry soap.
Soak the garments in the water for 5-10 minutes and then gently agitate the water with your hands for another 5-10 minutes. Avoid scrubbing, twisting or wringing merino clothing.
Drain the soapy water and then refill the sink or bucket with fresh cold water to rinse your merino clothing. You want to ensure you rinse all of the detergent out of the garments by gently swirling and pressing them between your hands or against the side of the sink or bucket.
To remove the excess water, gently press the garments between your hands or against the side of the sink or bucket. Don’t wring them out, be as gentle as possible.
Heat and friction are merino’s enemies. Tumble drying can shrink or warp the fibres.
After washing, gently reshape the garment and lay it flat on a towel or drying rack. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources.
Wet wool stretches easily. Hanging a wet merino shirt can cause it to lose its shape, especially around the shoulders.
Dirt and sweat left in the fibres can attract moths or degrade the wool over time.
For longer-term storage, fold your merino gear instead of hanging it. This prevents sagging and keeps the shape intact.
Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets in your drawers or bins. They’re natural deterrents without the toxicity of mothballs.
Air it out between uses: Thanks to its odour-resisting properties, merino doesn’t need washing after every wear. Hang it in a well-ventilated spot and it’ll freshen up naturally.
Spot clean stains: Dab lightly with cold water and a wool-safe detergent. Avoid aggressive rubbing.
Rotate your layers: Let garments rest between wears to prolong their lifespan.
Pack smart: When travelling or backcountry camping, roll rather than fold to minimise wrinkles and conserve space.
Yes, as long as your machine has a wool or delicate cycle and you use a wool-safe detergent with cold water. We also recommend using a modern washing machine without an agitator that could cause damage.
Only if exposed to hot water or heat drying. Stick to the recommended washing instructions and you’re good.
Yes, but only on a low wool setting. Use a pressing cloth and avoid direct heat if possible.
Less often than you’d think. Merino resists odour naturally so you can usually wear it for 2-3 days of rigorous activity before throwing it in the wash. If you're just wearing it as a warm base layer for general use (not in the outdoors) you could wear it for up to a week before washing.
Absolutely. It's one of the best performance fibres available as it’s soft, comfortable, moisture-wicking, thermoregulating, and odor-resistant. Just care for it right and it’ll go the distance.
Need high-performance merino gear built for rugged missions? Explore Bushbuck’s Merino Wool clothing.
The Bushbuck Team includes our staff, the Bushbuck Test Team, and the industry experts we work with on a regular basis. It's a way for us to speak as a brand while recognising that our knowledge, advice, and opinions come from real people who live and breathe this stuff. When we write an article or product guide, you can be sure we've tapped our team of engineers, product developers, designers, and adventurers to provide you with the most helpful, in-depth advice we can muster. The Bushbuck Team is all of our minds put together to help elevate your adventure.
Get $10 off your first order and a chance towin a Stashlite Anorak Rain Jacket by signing up to our mailing list.