Care guide.
Despite popular belief, caring for wool is easy! The natural properties of wool provide a unique combination of resilience and built-in stain resistance. Each wool fibre is coated with a thin, protective layer of lanolin, which helps to repel dust, dirt, and moisture. However, to keep your wool products looking their very best for longer, it's a good idea to follow a simple care routine. With wool, less is often more, and a light airing every now and again should be enough. Your wool light shade will very rarely need actual cleaning—if ever—but if it does require a little refresh, follow these steps to ensure it is properly cared for. By following these steps, you can ensure that your wool light continues to cosy up your space for many years to come.
Handling your shade
When installing the light shade, handle it gently to avoid stretching the wool. If your shade is slightly crinkled from its journey, a simple hack is to use the steam from your iron to relax it back into shape. Gently apply the steam function to the creased portions, and the wrinkles will smooth out beautifully. Additionally, ensure the lightbulb you choose does not emit excessive heat, as this can damage the wool over time; we recommend using LED bulbs for their low heat output and energy efficiency.
General care
To keep your wool lightshade looking its best, briefly airing in the sun is usually all that is needed on occasion. The backyard clothesline does the trick best - with stainless steel pegs - especially on a breezy day. For small stains, gently blot (do not rub) the affected area with a clean, damp cloth using cold water and a mild wool detergent. It’s important to avoid soaking the wool to prevent shrinkage or distortion.
Only if you absolutely have to, and treat your lightshade like a delicate wool baby blanket. Before starting, ensure the light is switched off and the bulb is cool. Carefully remove the textile shade from the wood fitting with a gentle click. Leave the wire rings attached. Fill a basin or bath with cold water and add a small amount of mild wool detergent. Immerse the light shade in the water and gently agitate it, avoiding wringing or twisting the wool. Once washed, thoroughly rinse with cold water to remove all detergent. Gently press out excess water using a towel, but do not wring it. To dry the shade, evenly attach one ring of the light shade to a washing line with stainless steel pegs, being careful not to stretch any part of the fabric at all. This helps to maintain its shape and prevent deformation. When the light shade is almost dry, simply click it back into the wooden frame to allow it to relax back into its final shape.
Deep cleaning.
Maintenance Tips
To avoid damaging the fibres of your wool lightshade, do not use regular washing detergent, bleach, fabric softeners, or other harsh chemicals. Wool could also be susceptible to moth damage, so if moths are a problem in your space, remember that moths only love dark, undisturbed spaces. The larvae will drop off any product that you shake or take into the sunlight (or when the light is installed). So store your lightshade correctly if it is not installed, or to air out your wool products outdoors on a bright, sunny day. You can consider using natural moth repellents like cedarwood or lavender oils.