Spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into your knitting and crochet projects — and that includes showing some love to your yarn stash! Whether you’ve got a basket of Malabrigo Rios, a few skeins of Rowan Felted Tweed, or a precious collection of Marie Wallin British Breeds, taking proper care of your yarn ensures it stays beautiful, soft, and ready for your next creative burst.

Here’s your ultimate guide to washing, storing, and maintaining the luxurious fibres we stock here at Wrapped In Fibre. 🌸

🧺 Washing Your Yarns and Handknits

Each fibre behaves differently, and knowing how to treat it can make the difference between a lifelong heirloom and an accidental felted coaster!

1. Superwash Wool (like Malabrigo Rios or Sock)

Superwash wool is specially treated to prevent felting — meaning it’s more forgiving in the wash.
Care tips:

• Use cool or lukewarm water and a gentle wool wash (like Eucalan or Soak).
  

• Hand or Machine-wash on a gentle wool cycle if needed, but avoid agitation.
  

• Always lay flat to dry — never hang, as it can stretch the fibres.
  ✨ Bonus tip: If you love softness, a quick rinse in a lanolin-based wool wash will keep the yarn supple and hydrated.
  

2. Natural untreated Wool (like Marie Wallin British Breeds)

These beautiful, natural wools have incredible stitch definition but require extra care.
Care tips:

• Hand wash in cold water only.
  

• Add a teaspoon of wool wash and let your piece soak, don’t scrub.
  

• Gently squeeze out excess water (no twisting!) and roll in a towel to remove moisture.
  

• Lay flat on a clean towel to dry.
  🌿 Pro tip: Avoid sudden temperature changes — they can shock the fibres and cause felting.
  
  

3. Wool Blends (like Rowan Felted Tweed)

These blends often include fibres like alpaca or viscose, making them delicate but durable.
Care tips:

• Hand wash or gentle wool cycle in cold water.
  

• Use mild detergent, do not use bleach or fabric softeners.
  

• Lay flat in the shade to naturally dry and reshape gently while damp - do not tumble dry.
  
  

🧵 Storage & Maintenance

Your yarn stash deserves as much love as your finished projects!

Keep it clean and critter-free

• Store yarn in breathable cotton bags or bins — avoid plastic long-term, which can trap moisture.
  

• Add a few cedar balls or lavender sachets to deter moths naturally.
  

• Make sure yarn is completely dry before storing — even a little dampness invites trouble.
  
  

Rotate your stash

Just like pantry goods, yarn benefits from being rotated! Move older skeins to the front so they get used before colours fade or twist relaxes.

Avoid sunlight exposure

Sunlight can fade dyes, especially in richly hand-dyed yarns like Malabrigo. Store them away from windows or wrap them in tissue.

✨ Spring Yarn Refresh Checklist

☑ Wash and block your winter knits before storing.
☑ Check yarn labels and update your stash list (perfect excuse for a new project!).
☑ Re-skein or wind yarns that have loosened over time.
☑ Give your needles and hooks a wipe-down with a soft cloth.
☑ Treat yourself to a new spring project — you’ve earned it!

🌼 Wrapping Up

Caring for your yarn is an act of love — for the fibres, for the craft, and for yourself. With a little seasonal attention, your stash will stay gorgeous year-round and ready for any creative adventure.

If you’re feeling inspired, take a peek at our newest arrivals at Wrapped In Fibre — from soft superwash wools to classic tweeds and heritage British breeds. Your next masterpiece might be waiting there!