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With the temperature falling to 8.7 degrees Celsius in Delhi on November 17, the lowest November temperature in three years, the chill of winter is officially here. As you dig out your cozy sweaters and shawls, a little care can help keep your wool clothes soft, fresh, and lint-free all season long. Here are simple tips to make your winter apparel last longer. (Image: PTI)
1. Wash woolen clothes slowly with cold water. Wool fibers are delicate and can easily lose their shape with harsh washing. Use cold water and mild detergent for delicates. Avoid rubbing—just gently swirl and rinse to keep the fibers intact. (Image: Canva)
2. Rinse with vinegar-cold water to remove softness and odor. White vinegar is a natural, gentle deodorizer that also softens wool. Mix a small amount in cold water and soak the clothes for 15-20 minutes. It removes stale odors, trapped bacteria and leftover detergent without damaging the clothes. (Image: Canva)
3. Always dry woolen clothes. Never hang woolen clothes to dry as the weight of water stretches them. Place them on a towel and let them air dry naturally in a shady area. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading and brittleness. (Image: Canva)
4. Remove fuzz using the correct lint tools. Pilling is common in wool, especially in areas that are exposed to friction. Use a wool comb for delicate knits, a battery lint shaver for heavier sweaters, or a lint roller for quick surface cleaning. Always work in gentle downward strokes to protect the fabric. (Image: Canva)
5. Store woolen clothes properly to prevent odor and lint. Most problems associated with winter clothing start with improper storage. Make sure woolen clothes are washed, dried completely and folded – never hung out. Use breathable muslin or cotton bags instead of plastic. Add cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or naphthalene balls to keep insects away and prevent musty odors. (Image: Canva)
6. The right way to keep clothes fresh. Wool naturally absorbs odors, but it also releases them when given proper ventilation. After wearing, keep the woolen clothes in a shady, ventilated place for a few hours. For musty cupboard smells, leave them in overnight. If you’re indoors, planting some indoor plants nearby helps neutralize odors. (Image: Canva)
7. Freeze woolen clothes to eliminate strong odors. For persistent odors like smoke or sweat, freezing works surprisingly well. Fold the dry cloth, seal in an airtight bag and place in the freezer for 6-12 hours. The cold kills odor-causing germs and restores freshness – without any washing. (Image: Canva)