How do I get the smell of sheep out of my woollen clothing?

“How do I get the smell of sheep out of my wool clothing?” is a question customers sometimes ask.

Wool is warm, breathable, and durable. However, a new wool garment can sometimes have an unpleasant odor: the familiar “sheep smell.” This scent can be particularly strong with new merino wool or untreated wool. Fortunately, there are several ways to make wool clothing fresh and wearable again without damaging the wool.

Why does wool sometimes smell like sheep?

Wool contains lanolin, a natural fatty substance that protects the fibers against dirt and moisture. Lanolin can have a faint animal scent, especially with new wool or wool that has undergone minimal degreasing during processing. Storage and transport can also intensify the odor.

A faint scent of wool is normal, but if it remains strong, it can reduce wearing comfort. With the right approach, however, the odor can usually be significantly reduced.

1. Airing out: always the first step

Often, fresh air alone is enough to reduce the smell of sheep.

• Hang the garment outside or near an open window for a few days.
• Don’t leave it hanging in a humid environment for too long; that worsens the odor.
• Avoid direct sunlight; this can dry out or discolor the wool.
• Let the wool “breathe”; odors often dissipate on their own.

Sometimes the smell only disappears after several days, so patience pays off.

2. Wash wool using a wool detergent containing lanolin.

If the odor persists, the next step is washing. Always use a wool detergent containing lanolin. This cleans the wool while simultaneously replenishing its natural protective oils, keeping the fibers soft and resilient.

Here’s how to wash your wool to prevent odors:

1. Use cold to lukewarm water (20–30°C).
2. Add wool detergent containing lanolin according to the dosage.
3. Let the garment soak gently for 10–15 minutes.
4. Gently press the water through the fabric (do not wring).
5. Rinse with water of the same temperature.
6. Add a splash of white vinegar to the final rinse water to neutralize odors.
7. Press out the water and let it dry flat on a towel.

30°C is often slightly more effective against odor than cold water, provided you remain gentle and do not rub or spin-dry.

3. Baking soda for stubborn odors

For lingering odors, baking soda can help:

• Place the dry garment in a large container or cotton bag.
• Sprinkle baking soda around and on the fabric
• Let this stand for 24 hours.
• Then, gently shake out the garment.

Baking soda absorbs odors without damaging the wool fibers.

4. Does freezing wool help against the smell of sheep?

Yes, partly. Freezing wool can help with odors, but primarily with bacterial odors, such as the smell of sweat or mustiness.

When does freezing help?

At:

• Sweat odor
• Musty storage smell
• Light scent after wearing

Less effective for:

• Strong sheep or lanolin odor present from the time of production.

Lanolin is a fat and is not removed by cold. Therefore, freezing works best as a supplement, not as the sole solution.

Here’s how to safely freeze wool:

1. Ensure the garment is completely dry.
2. Put it in a cotton bag or a sealed bag.
3. Place it in the freezer for 24–48 hours.
4. Let it come up to temperature slowly.
5. Air the garment out well afterwards.

5. Storage and maintenance: prevent odors from returning

• Store wool in a well-ventilated area.
• Preferably use cotton covers, not plastic.
• Air out woollen clothing regularly.
• Better too little than too often, but always cautious.

Finally

It is fine for wool to smell like wool, but it should remain comfortable to wear. You can usually significantly reduce even stubborn sheep odors by airing the garment, washing it with a wool detergent containing lanolin, using baking soda, or even freezing it.

This keeps your wool clothing fresh, soft, and comfortable – exactly as intended.