This is one of the most common questions we hear about merino wool. And we understand why. For years, wool has had a reputation for being difficult to care for, fragile, or something you have to baby.
The good news is that caring for merino wool is much simpler than most people expect.
The Short Answer
Yes, you can put merino wool in the dryer.
The key is using the right settings and avoiding excess heat.
How We Recommend Washing Merino Wool
Merino wool does best when it is treated gently. When washing merino at home, we recommend the following:
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Machine wash on a cold temperature
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Use the gentle cycle
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Wash with like colors
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Turn items inside out
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Make sure any zippers washed alongside merino are fully closed
Cold water and a gentle cycle help protect the natural wool fibers and maintain the fit and feel of your garments.
What to Avoid When Washing Merino
A few simple things make a big difference when caring for merino:
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Do not use bleach. Bleach can destroy natural wool fibers.
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Avoid fabric softeners. These can coat the fibers and reduce merino’s ability to insulate and wick moisture.
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Skip harsh detergents and opt for mild options when possible.
How We Dry Our Merino
After washing, merino wool can be tumble dried on low heat.
Low heat is important. High heat can cause wool fibers to shrink or lose their natural elasticity over time. When dried properly, merino holds its shape and remains soft and comfortable.
Merino also dries quickly, so low heat cycles tend to be short and efficient.
Additional Care Tips
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Iron on low heat if needed
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Dry clean on a short cycle when appropriate
These options help extend the life of your merino pieces and keep them looking great wear after wear.
Quick FAQs About Merino Care
Does merino wool shrink in the dryer?
Merino can shrink if exposed to high heat. Using a low heat setting helps prevent shrinkage.
Is merino harder to care for than cotton?
Not really. Merino requires gentle settings, but it also needs to be washed less often thanks to its natural odor resistance.
Do you need to wash merino after every wear?
In most cases, no. Merino resists odor naturally, which means many pieces can be worn multiple times before washing.
Final Thoughts
Merino wool does not need complicated care routines. With cold water, gentle cycles, and low heat drying, it fits easily into everyday life.
Once you get comfortable with how simple merino care really is, it becomes just another effortless part of your routine.
