Patrick King uses wool from Merino sheep, unlike synthetics which are industrially produced from non-renewable fossil energy, Merino wool is a natural fibre grown year-round by Merino sheep, consuming a simple blend of natural ingredients including sunshine, water, fresh air and grass. Every year these sheep produce a new fleece, making wool a completely renewable fibre.

Arguably the oldest-known animal fibre, wool is composed of a natural protein called keratin – the same protein found in human hair – with a small amount of calcium, sodium and fat. The surface of each fibre is covered in scales, which are important in making felts and traditional woollen cloths.

Caring for your Merino wool blanket and products:

Since wool is naturally repellent to dirt, most wool blankets do not need regular washing. Instead, wool blankets can be shaken and brushed.

Step 1: Shake It
Take your blanket outside and shake it hard a few times.

Step 2: Get Out the Dirt
Then bring it back inside and hang it up in an area where there is airflow to let more dirt fall out.

Step 3: Brush It
After a few hours, lay the blanket flat on the ground and brush it with a soft-bristle fabric brush. Make sure to brush down the length of the blanket so the bristles are all laying in the same direction. Brushing in multiple directions will damage the fibres.

The General Rule for all pure wool blankets is to always wash in cold water and gently wring or roll. A hand wash or delicate wash cycle and low-action washer spin on modern appliances can produce a good result.

Protect a wool blanket from pests and dampness while in storage. Years ago mothballs were used to keep insects from destroying wool fibres, but this method left a lasting and unpleasant scent that permeated the blanket and the whole room.

Instead, store a wool blanket in a tightly sealed bin or a heavy plastic bag. If pests are a concern, add a few cedar chips or woodblocks. Cedarwood is a natural flying-insect repellent and a good alternative to mothballs.

1. Air wool blankets outside

Often air ventilation is the best way to freshen wool blankets. Take the wool blanket outside and give it a good shake before hanging the blanket in an area where there is good airflow. This will loosen any dust or dirt from the blanket.

2. Brush wool blankets with a soft-bristle brush

Like most blankets, wool blankets also need a refresh from time-to-time and can easily be achieved with a soft-bristle garment brush. Lay the blanket flat on the floor and brush along the grain of the blanket’s surface. This will ensure the wool fibres are all lying in the same direction, removes any surface soil or stain and smooths the fibres of the blanket.

3. Clean liquid stains

Wool is naturally stain and water repellent, but after a few minutes, liquid will begin to soak into the fabric. To remove this liquid stain, use warm water and mild detergent to spot clean as soon as possible. Don’t scrub the fabric. Instead, soak the stained area with warm water and detergent and blot with a soft cloth.

4. Wash heavily soiled wool blankets

To wash heavily soiled wool blankets, it is important to follow the care instructions of the blanket. If the label says the blanket is machine washable, the most important steps to follow are to use the gentle wool wash cycle on the washing machine, use cold water and only use specified wool wash detergents.

5. Dry wool blankets

To dry wool blankets, it is best to hang them flat over a clothesline outside to support the weight of the wet blanket. It is also important to hang wool blankets away from direct sunlight to avoid fading and it may cause the wool to dry too quickly, which may result in coarseness of the fabric. Avoid putting wool blankets in the dryer, as it can destroy the softness and shape of the wool blanket.

6. Store wool blankets

Store your wool blankets in a dark, cool place in an air-tight container or bag, and if pests are a common occurrence in your home, you can nestle a few cedar chips with your wool blankets as cedarwood is a natural flying insect repellent.

This is considered the highest quality of sheep’s wool on the market. Lambswool is taken from a sheep at its first shearing (usually when the sheep is about seven months old)

Patrick King uses the finest Lambswool in the production in its weaving. Incredibly soft, smooth, resilient, elastic and has superior spinning properties. Because of its silkiness, softness and warmth, Lambswool can be worn comfortably against the skin. It’s also the most hypoallergenic of all wools. Recommend hand wash in cold water and dry flat or dry clean.

How to care for your pure lambswool Products:

1. Hand wash in cool water with mild soap.

2. Do not wring or stretch; do not bleach.

3. Rinse well and gently squeeze out excess; do not wring.

4. Briefly machine spin; do not tumble dry.

5. Place on a towel, smooth to shape and dry flat.

6. Use cool iron if needed when dry.