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Care Guide: Knitwear and Merino
Swanndri and Line 7 knitwear and merino garments are designed to deliver warmth, comfort, and breathability across a wide range of conditions. Made from natural fibres, they're built to last - but they do need gentle, fibre-friendly care to stay looking and performing their best.
Wool and merino don't need frequent washing. In many cases, a bit of fresh air and spot cleaning is all that's required.
Recommended Care
Swanndri and Line 7 knitwear is made for everyday wear in cold conditions. Because wool fibres are naturally breathable and odour-resistant, these garments respond best to minimal handling and gentle washing.
- Spot clean and air when possible
- Cold hand wash using a wool-specific detergent
- Rinse thoroughly in cold water
- Gently squeeze out excess water
- Do not rub or wring
- Ease back into shape while damp
- Dry flat in the shade
- Do not rub
- Do not bleach
- Do not soak
- Do not tumble dry
- Warm iron inside-out only, if required
Using cold water not only protects the fibres - it also helps reduce energy use.
Recommended product:
- Nikwax Wool Wash - Cleaner & Conditioner (NZ$19.99)
- Gentle on natural fibres and ideal for Swanndri knitwear
Merino Base Layers
Merino base layers are worn closer to the body and can be machine washed, as long as they're treated gently.
- Wash with similar colours
- Cool, gentle machine wash
- Turn garment inside-out before washing
- Use a wool detergent
- Do not rub, bleach, or wring
- Dry flat in the shade
- Warm iron inside-out only, if needed
Avoid high heat at all stages - heat is the fastest way to damage fine merino fibres.
Pilling: What It Is & How to Deal With It
You may notice small balls of fibre - known as pilling - forming on areas of friction, such as under the arms or where a pack or jacket sits.
This is very normal for delicate wool and knitwear.
Pilling occurs because:
- Wool fibres vary in length
- Shorter fibres rise to the surface
- Movement and friction roll them into small balls
Pilling does not reflect poor quality - it's a natural characteristic of fine wool.
How to Remove Pilling
We recommend using a battery operated de-pilling machine. With regular wear and gentle removal, pilling will occur less over time as loose fibres are worn away.
Watch: How to Remove Pilling from Your Knitwear
Storage Tips (Especially Over Summer)
Proper storage is key to extending the life of knitwear.
- Always store knitwear folded, not on hangers (to prevent stretching)
- Keep garments in a cool, dry place
- Store in a cotton or natural fibre bag to help prevent moth damage.
Avoid plastic bags - natural fibres need to breathe.
