Mohair - Hand wash vs Machine Wash
Method |
Recommendation |
Why for Mohair? |
| Hand Wash | Gold Standard | Best for preserving the "halo." You have total control over the agitation, ensuring the long fibres don't mat together. |
| Machine (Wool Cycle) | Acceptable | Efficient for heavier knits or blends. However, even the gentlest cycle can slightly "compact" the fluffiness over time. |
Machine washing - wool cycle (The "Safe" Way)
If you have a high-end machine and want to use the wool programme for your mohair knitwear, you must follow these rules to avoid ruining the texture:
- The Mesh Bag is Non-Negotiable: Place the mohair item in a large mesh laundry bag. This prevents the long mohair fibres from rubbing against the drum or other clothes, which causes pilling and matting.
- Turn It Inside Out: This protects the "face" of the knit.
- Low Spin (Critical): Set your spin speed to 400 RPM or the "No Spin" / "Drip Dry" setting. High spin speeds "plaster" the mohair fibres against the garment, making it look flat and dull once dry.
- Lanolin-Free Detergent: use a lanolin-free detergent
The Post-Wash Brush
Whether you hand wash or machine wash, mohair often looks a bit "sad" and flat when it comes out of the water. How to bring it back to life:
- Once the mohair knitwear is completely dry, give it a gentle shake to wake up the fibres.
- If it still looks flat, you can use a soft clothes brush (or even a clean, soft baby hairbrush) to very gently lift the halo.
- Brush in the direction of the fibre to restore that "cloud-like" appearance.