Soft, luxurious, and timeless โ a mohair sweater feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. But when itโs time to clean it, many people freeze up, worried that one wrong move will ruin its shape or texture. Mohair is delicate by nature, and caring for it properly makes all the difference between a sweater that lasts one season and one that stays beautiful for years.
If youโve been wondering how to wash a mohair sweater or how to clean mohair safely at home, this guide walks you through every step, from washing and drying to stain removal and storage.
Can You Wash a Mohair Sweater in the Washing Machine?
Technically, yes. However, this depends on the machine and how itโs used. Most mohair garments are better off handwashed, but if you must use a washer, keep these precautions in mind:
Always turn the sweater inside out, place it in a mesh laundry bag, and set your machine to the most delicate or wool cycle. Use cold water and a gentle detergent meant for wool or cashmere. Avoid regular spin cycles or tumble drying, as agitation can cause the fibers to stretch, shrink, or mat together.
For the best results, skip the machine entirely and go for a gentle handwash instead.
How to Hand Wash a Mohair Sweater the Right Way
So, how do you clean mohair the correct way? Handwashing keeps mohair fibers soft and prevents the fluffy texture from matting.ย
Hereโs the safest method:
1. Prepare Cool Water and Gentle Detergent
Start by filling a clean basin or sink with cool water. Avoid warm or hot water, as heat can shrink or weaken mohair fibers. Add a small amount of mild, wool-safe detergent. A few drops are enough to create a light, soapy solution without overwhelming the fabric.
2. Submerge and Soak the Sweater
Turn your mohair sweater inside out and place it gently into the basin. Swirl it slowly through the water to distribute the detergent evenly. Avoid rubbing, wringing, or stretching the material. Let the sweater soak for about five to ten minutes so the detergent can loosen dirt and oils.
3. Rinse Thoroughly with Clean Water
Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with fresh, cool water. Rinse the sweater carefully by moving it through the clean water until all detergent residue is gone. You may need to repeat this once or twice to ensure a complete rinse. A clean rinse helps the fabric stay soft and prevents stiffness.
4. Remove Excess Water Carefully
When lifting your mohair sweater, support it with both hands to prevent stretching. Avoid twisting or squeezing it. Instead, press it gently against the side of the basin to release excess water. You can also lay it flat on a clean towel, roll the towel up, and press lightly to absorb more moisture.
5. Handle with Care for Best Results
Mohair requires patience and a gentle touch. This slower method may take longer, but it helps your sweater keep its shape and fluffy texture. With careful handwashing, your mohair sweater will stay soft, clean, and luxurious for many seasons.
How Do You Dry a Mohair Sweater Without Stretching It?
Never hang a wet mohair sweater, because gravity can easily stretch it out of shape. Instead, place it flat on a dry towel and gently roll it up to remove excess water. Unroll it, reshape the sweater to its original form, and let it air dry flat on a new dry towel in a well-ventilated area.
Avoid direct sunlight as well, or heat sources like radiators or hair dryers, which can make fibers brittle. Patience is key here. Air drying might take a day or two, but your sweater will stay beautifully soft and fluffy.
Should You Dry Clean Your Mohair Sweater Instead?
If youโre nervous about washing mohair at home or your sweater has intricate patterns, embroidery, or delicate embellishments, dry cleaning may be the safest route. Professional cleaners understand how to treat mohair garments without damaging the fibers.
However, not all dry cleaners are experienced with specialty wools. Always check if they handle mohair specifically. For everyday cleaning, though, gentle handwashing is still the most recommended option. Itโs effective, affordable, and helps your sweater last longer.
What Detergents and Tools Are Best for Washing Mohair?
The key to keeping mohair soft is using mild, wool-friendly products. Look for detergents labeled for delicates or cashmere, ideally pH-neutral and free from enzymes. Enzymes and strong surfactants can strip natural oils and roughen fibers.
Youโll also need:
- A large basin or clean sink
- A soft towel
- A mesh laundry bag (for machine washing)
- A flat drying rack or absorbent surface
Avoid bleach, softeners, or fabric conditioners as they might coat or stiffen the natural fibers.
How to Remove Stains from a Mohair Sweater Safely
Spot cleaning is the best way to remove stains from mohair sweaters for women and men. Because mohair fibers are delicate, treating stains carefully prevents damage and keeps the fabric soft.
Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Act Quickly
The sooner you treat a stain, the better the results. Fresh stains lift more easily, while older ones tend to settle into the fibers. If you notice a spill, address it as soon as possible instead of letting it dry.
Step 2: Prepare a Gentle Cleaning Solution
Mix a small amount of wool-safe detergent with cool water in a clean bowl. Avoid using regular detergent or bleach, as they can damage the fine fibers of mohair.
Step 3: Dab the Stain Gently
Dip a soft white cloth into the mixture and blot the stained area carefully. Pat, donโt rub. Rubbing can stretch the fibers, cause pilling, or leave a fuzzy patch where the fabric loses its texture.
Step 4: Treat Oil-Based Stains Separately
For oily marks like makeup or food grease, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder over the affected area. Leave it for about 15 to 20 minutes to absorb the residue. Once the powder has lifted the oil, brush it off gently using a soft garment brush.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry the Area
Use a clean, damp cloth to remove any detergent residue. Then, lay the sweater flat on a towel to air dry. Avoid hanging it, as that could stretch the fabric while it is still damp.
Step 6: Get Professional Help for Stubborn Stains
If the stain remains visible or the fabric feels rough afterward, take it to a trusted professional. A reputable laundry service in Chicago, like SpinXpress, can clean delicate materials such as mohair without harming the fibers.
How to Store a Mohair Sweater to Maintain Its Quality
Proper storage plays a big part in keeping mohair looking beautiful between wears.
Follow these steps to store your mohair sweater correctly:
Step 1: Make Sure Itโs Completely Dry
Never store your mohair sweater while it is still damp. Even small amounts of moisture can cause mildew or odor over time. Allow it to air dry completely on a flat towel before folding.
Step 2: Fold, Donโt Hang
Hanging a mohair sweater can stretch it out of shape, especially around the shoulders. Fold it neatly and lay it flat in a drawer or on a shelf to maintain its structure.
Step 3: Use Breathable Storage Bags
Place your folded sweater in a cotton or linen garment bag instead of plastic. Breathable fabrics allow air circulation, which helps prevent musty smells and fiber damage.
Step 4: Add Natural Moth Repellents
Moths are drawn to natural fibers like mohair. Place cedar blocks, sachets of lavender, or herbal moth repellents in your storage area to protect your garments without harsh chemicals or synthetic scents.
Step 5: Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Keep your sweaters away from sunlight, heat, or humidity. A cool, dry closet or drawer is best. If you are storing mohair for the season, check it occasionally to make sure it stays fresh and pest-free.
Step 6: Give It a Light Shake Every Few Months
Air out your mohair sweaters every couple of months by giving them a gentle shake or laying them out briefly to breathe. This prevents fibers from flattening and keeps the garment fluffy and soft.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Washing Mohair?
Even with the best intentions, itโs easy to make small mistakes that can ruin a mohair sweaterโs soft texture and shape. Understanding what to avoid helps your mohair garments last longer and stay looking fresh.
Here are some of the most common errors and how to prevent them.
Using Hot Water
Hot water is the biggest enemy of mohair. It can cause the fibers to shrink, felt, or lose their natural fluff. Always use cold or cool water when washing, whether by hand or machine. If the water feels even slightly warm, itโs too hot for mohair.
Rubbing or Scrubbing the Fabric
Many people think a bit of scrubbing will remove dirt faster, but with mohair, friction only damages the delicate fibers. Rubbing, twisting, or wringing can lead to pilling or even tears in the fabric. The correct approach is gentle movement. Swish the sweater lightly in water and let the detergent lift away dirt on its own.
Skipping the Rinse Step
Detergent residue can make mohair feel stiff and cause dullness over time. Always rinse thoroughly with clean, cool water until the water runs clear. It might take two or three rinses, but removing all soap helps the fibers stay soft and bouncy.
Hanging the Sweater While Wet
A wet mohair sweater can double in weight, which causes it to stretch out of shape if hung on a hanger. The shoulders and sleeves can droop, and the sweater may never return to its original fit. To avoid this, lay it flat on a towel, reshape it, and let it air dry naturally.
Using the Wrong Detergent
Regular laundry detergents contain enzymes and harsh cleaning agents that are too strong for mohair. These chemicals can strip away the natural oils that make the fiber soft and shiny. Always use a mild detergent designed for wool or delicates. A small amount goes a long way.
Applying Heat During Drying
It might be tempting to speed up drying with a hair dryer or near a heater, but heat makes mohair brittle and prone to shedding. Allow your sweater to air dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The slow drying process protects the fiberโs natural elasticity.
Ignoring Care Labels
Every mohair sweater is different. Some blends include other fibers like silk or nylon, which can change how the garment reacts to water or detergent. Always read the care label before washing. It tells you if your sweater should be handwashed, dry-cleaned, or washed on a specific setting.
Storing While Still Damp
Even a little moisture can lead to mold or mildew in storage. Before putting your mohair sweater away, check that it is completely dry. If it feels even slightly cool to the touch, give it more time to air out. Folding and storing a damp sweater traps humidity, which can cause permanent damage.
Overwashing the Sweater
Mohair does not need to be washed after every wear. Frequent washing weakens the fibers and shortens the life of the garment. Instead, air it out between wears or use a fabric freshening spray made for wool. Reserve washing for visible dirt, odors, or stains.
Skipping Professional Help When Needed
Some stains or odors are simply too stubborn for home care. Trying to treat them with harsh methods can do more harm than good. For expensive or vintage mohair sweaters, itโs worth turning to a professional laundry service that knows how to handle delicate fabrics. In Chicago, SpinXpress offers expert garment care for delicate fibers like mohair. Our wash and fold service ensures your pieces get cleaned safely and returned soft, fresh, and beautifully preserved.
Keep Your Mohair Sweater Soft and Beautiful with SpinXpress
Mohair deserves gentle care, and sometimes that means leaving it to the experts. SpinXpress, located in Chicago, IL, makes sweater care effortless with professional laundry and garment handling that keeps delicate fabrics like mohair looking their best.
Our wash and fold service uses gentle cleaning techniques to maintain softness, color, and structure without stretching or fading. If you want to skip the worry and still keep your mohair sweaters clean, soft, and ready for the next season, let SpinXpress handle it for you.
Visit SpinXpress in Chicago today for expert garment care and laundry services tailored for delicate fibers.
