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How to Care for your Merino Wool Sleepwear (and What to Avoid)
Merino wool is like nature's version of a luxury performance fabric. It keeps you warm when it’s cold, cools you down when it’s hot, and feels buttery soft against the skin. But just like any premium fabric, it deserves a little extra love in the laundry room.
If you’ve invested in pure Merino sleepwear from Sleepy Merino, you’re already winning in the comfort and sustainability stakes. Let’s make sure your beautiful pajamas go the distance. Here’s your practical guide to Merino wool care.
Why Detergent Choice Matters
Not all detergents are created equal. While Sleepy Merino products are designed for machine washing, many modern laundry detergents are loaded with bioenzymes and chemicals that can seriously damage your wool garments.
Warning: Bioenzymes Ahead
Bioenzymes (a.k.a. biological enzymes) are designed to break down protein-based stains — but wool fibres are also protein-based. That means every wash with enzyme detergent weakens your Merino, leading to thinning, holes, and worn-out sleepwear.
Check for warnings like: "Do not use with wool or silk." That fine print is there for a reason.
Ingredients to Avoid Like the Plague
Scan detergent labels and avoid these red flags:
- Enzymes (like protease, amylase)
- Bleach or chlorine
- Oxygen-based stain removers or "oxy" additives
- Brighteners and whiteners
These aren’t just harsh on wool — they can irritate your skin and disrupt Merino’s natural odour resistance.
What to Use Instead
Reach for pH-neutral liquid detergent that’s gentle on natural fibres. Look for labels that say:
- “Wool” or “Delicate”
- “Sensitive” or “Eco” formulas
- “Woolmark approved”
Here are a few Woolmark Recommended Wool-Safe Detergents:
- Earth Choice Wool & Delicates
- Ecostore Wool & Delicates
- Aware Sensitive Laundry Liquid
- Borsistos Sensitive
- Softly
- Dirt Wool & Delicate
Quick Washing Tips for Merino Wool Care
- Use cold or lukewarm water (max 30°C)
- Choose gentle machine washing with the wool cycle, or opt for hand washing if practical, though due to Sleepy Merino’s superior quality, it can withstand a normal cycle.
- Avoid fabric softener – Merino is already luxuriously soft
- Air dry flat or use line drying in the shade
- Use a mesh laundry bag to protect garments in the washing machine
Why It Matters
Merino wool is more than fabric — it’s a wellness tool. Science shows it helps regulate temperature and manage moisture, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
By caring for your Merino wool garments the right way, you extend their lifespan and preserve their incredible sleep benefits. At Sleepy Merino, every piece is made with purpose: to help you sleep better while supporting Aussie woolgrowers and sustainable farming.
More to Explore
- Discover the Why Merino Advantage
- Understand our 30 Day Comfort Guarantee
- Learn how we close the loop with our Circularity Program
Conclusion: Gentle Care, Longer Wear
Treat your Merino sleepwear with the care it deserves. Skip the bioenzymes, use the right detergent, follow the care label, and you’ll keep that buttery softness and temperature-regulating magic for years to come.
Better habits = better sleep.
Want to experience Merino for yourself? Shop our sleepwear and feel the difference.
FAQs
- Can I use regular detergent on Merino wool?
Only if it’s free from enzymes, bleach, and harsh additives. Always check the care label. - How often should I wash Merino pyjamas?
Merino resists odour naturally, so you can wash less often — usually after every 3 to 4 wears. - Is hand washing better for Merino?
Yes, it’s the gentlest method. But a cold machine wash on the wool setting is also fine. - Can I dry Merino sleepwear in the dryer?
No. Stick to line drying or laying flat to preserve shape and texture. - What happens if I accidentally used enzyme detergent?
If it was just once, no big deal. But repeated use will break down the wool fibers over time. Make the switch to wool-safe detergent ASAP.