since the job of a wool topper is to absorb body moisture it means at some point i would have to wash it. but a nice topper is a heavy topper and you Phoenix were nice enough to provide a link to one that weighs 20 pounds. thing is - how do you wash a 20 pound topper ? two 4 pound comforters already are a pretty tight fit in a washing machine - no ?
is there like a special service for this type of thing ?
maybe two 10 pound toppers is a better idea than a single 20 pound one ?
Hi g1981c,
While I am no “expert” in wool toppers … I can share some of the results of my research and conversations.
I have found in my conversations with wool topper manufacturers (and others that are much more experienced and knowledgeable about wool than I am) that you will get different answers to this question depending on which manufacturer you are talking to and also because there are many different types of wool and types of construction and covers (or backing in the case of snugfleece) as well that are used in wool toppers which can make a difference in the answer. The risk of washing (and drying) wool is that it can “felt” and shrink which results in the loss of resilience and height. The most “accurate” answer I could give you would be to follow the care instructions or each manufacturer. Some wool is specially treated to make it “washable” as well (with care).
Having said that though … there are many have suggested hand washing in cool or cold water with gentle detergent meant for wool and then very careful air drying either laid flat in the sun or in a low temperature dryer with tennis balls inside to help it keep its loft.
I should also mention that wool has a natural self cleansing ability that is activated when it is aired out in the sunshine and this is the most consistent recommendation of wool topper manufacturers to keep your wool hygienic and “clean”.
Some of the care suggestions made by some of the manufacturers in the wool topper list (or some who offer a re-carding or laundering service) include …
http://www.woolenmill.com/sections/Home_Laundry_Instructions.php
http://www.wool-bedding.com/laundering-your-wool-bedding.html
http://www.sleepandbeyond.com/sunshop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=65
http://shepherdsdream.com/wool-bedding-care/ (also click “accidents”)
http://snugfleece.com/wool-mattress-covers/1373341
Hope this helps.
Phoenix
As a knitter, washing wool in hot water with soap will cause felting. You can purchase a good wool wash at any knitting store. They don’t require rinsing. A good soak in cool water will refresh the topper. You just need a place to lay it flat to dry.
damn, so this is an even bigger problem than i thought - thanks for the information guys.