Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
This fleece has been washed and is spread out to dry. Notice how well it held its structure during washing to
preserve the workability of the wool.
(Photo courtesy of Emma Jane Hogbin)
To wash fleeces, you can use either a washing machine or a large utility sink or tub. Use a mesh
bag to help hold the fleece in place and to prevent felting (unusable matting) of the fleece.
1. Let the washing machine or sink fill with hot water and then let the fleece soak completely
submerged in the hot water.
2. Drain the water and either spin the fleece in the spin cycle or press it dry between two
towels (do not twist or wring).
3. Refill the washer or sink one more time with a mild dish-washing detergent so the soap is
agitated before adding the fiber.
4. When the water is soapy, submerge the fleece and let it soak for at least 30 minutes more to
clean thoroughly. Keep the water hot or the grease will stick onto the fleece again.
5. Rinse thoroughly in hot water again just as you did in the first step. If you have to repeat
the soapy stage for a particularly dirty or greasy fleece you can, but do not swish the fleece
around in the water or it will fuzz up and be ruined.
6. Let the fiber dry thoroughly while lying flat on a screen. Keep it out of direct sunlight but
provide plenty of ventilation and air flow. Do not put a fan on it because you'll fuzz out your
fleece.
When it's completely dry, you can roll it and sell it at a higher price per ounce or per pound with a
clean and workable fleece!
