Nikwax Wool Wash Wool Care

Odor-Eliminating Nikwax Wool Wash for Merino Wool

Deodorizing cleaner and conditioner for woolen technical underwear and wicking clothing worn next to the skin. Wool Wash effectively cleans, softens, freshens, inhibits the build-up of body odors, accelerates drying and improves cooling efficiency of woolen base layers. Available in 10 fl. oz and 34 fl. oz.

For more info, visit Nikwax.com.

Keep Your Wool Performing the Way It Should

Regular detergents and fabric softeners do more harm than good when it comes to caring for wool clothing. Minus33 carries Nikwax Wool Wash, a specially formulated cleaner designed to keep Merino wool base layers, socks, travel clothing, and accessories performing exactly as intended, wash after wash. Where conventional household products leave behind residues that interfere with moisture wicking, Nikwax Wool Wash works with the natural properties of wool rather than against them.

Made Specifically for the Wool You Wear Next to Skin

This wash is built for the items in your wardrobe that work hardest, including your base layers, socks, and other wool clothing worn directly against the skin during activity. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin while still being effective at cutting through the odors and residue that build up after repeated wear. A quick treatment keeps your Merino wool gear smelling fresh and performing the way it did the day you bought it, season after season.

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Details

Woolen base layers are designed to be worn next to the skin, providing user comfort by maintaining body temperature and controlling moisture. They are highly wicking (will spread moisture out over a large area), fast drying and breathable. It is therefore essential to maintain these properties when caring for woolen base layers.

Base layers are fantastic for regulating your temperature and controlling body moisture, but to keep them functioning properly care must be taken when washing. It is recommended to wash woolen items in mild liquid detergents and to avoid using powder or bio detergents, which contain enzymes. Using conventional household detergents or fabric softeners can impair wicking properties by causing the fabric to retain moisture. This leads to reduced wicking capabilities and slow drying of the fabric, resulting in reduced user comfort. Additionally, standard household softeners can lead to pilling over a number of washes.

All active people should use base layers to effectively manage body moisture and regulate temperature. Hill walkers, runners, cyclists, and mountaineers are among those who utilize base layers to maintain their comfort whilst active.

Once your base layer has been used a few times wash it with Nikwax Wool Wash™ to refresh, remove odors, soften and enhance drying and cooling. Always apply Nikwax Wool Wash™ to used woolen base layers, socks and travel clothing to keep them in perfect condition.

Using conventional household detergents and fabric softeners will impair the wicking properties of base layer fabrics. Standard household detergents do not stop odors from building up in the fabric when in use. Conventional fabric softeners leave water-hating (hydrophobic) residues that will reduce the performance of the fabric, preventing it from spreading moisture and working to its maximum potential. Nikwax Wool Wash™ outperforms conventional household detergents and fabric conditioners at improving wicking, accelerating drying, and removing and preventing odor build up.

Nikwax Wool Wash™ has been specifically formulated for use when cleaning and conditioning woolen base layers. If you have synthetic base layers make sure you use Nikwax BaseWash® for best results.

Nikwax takes great care to minimize the effect of Nikwax products on the environment and on you, the consumer. All Nikwax conditioning products are WaterBased, non-flammable, non-hazardous, biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and contain no volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

How to Use

In the Washing Machine:

Use undiluted Nikwax Wool Wash™ to treat stubborn stains before washing.

Shake well before use. Follow care label instructions. Do not use fabric softener. Do not use on waterproof clothing.

• Place item(s) in washing machine.
• Use 2 fl oz/50 ml of Nikwax Wool Wash™ for front loading washing machines.*
• Wash according to care label.

* For top loading machines in USA and Canada use 3.5 fl oz/100 ml for low water level, or 5 fl oz/150 ml for medium water level.

For Hand Washing:

Use undiluted Nikwax Wool Wash™ to treat stubborn stains before washing.

Shake well before use. Follow care label instructions. Do not use fabric conditioner. Do not use on waterproof clothing.

• Immerse item(s) in hand-hot water in sink or bowl.
• Use 1 fl oz/25 ml of Nikwax Wool Wash™.
• Rinse 3 times in clean water.

Benefits of Merino Wool

Moisture Wicking
Merino wool is the best fiber to regulate moisture. It does this by absorbing sweat from your skin and releasing it into the air. Whether you're hiking, running, biking, on the job, or just relaxing at home, our wool helps keep you dry and comfortable all day long.

Soft & Comfortable
Merino wool fibers are much finer than traditional wool, creating a luxuriously soft feel that won’t itch or irritate your skin. Comfortable enough for everyday wear and gentle enough for sensitive skin, it’s a natural choice for underwear, base layers and next-to-skin comfort.

Highly Breathable
Merino wool’s unique structure allows air to circulate freely, helping to regulate your body temperature in both hot and cold weather conditions. Whether you're layering up for winter or staying cool in summer, Merino keeps you comfortable by letting your skin breathe.

Anti-Microbial
Merino wool naturally resists odor-causing bacteria, keeping you fresher for longer. No lingering smells, even after extended wear. Perfect for travel, outdoor adventures, and everyday life.

Insulates When Wet
Merino wool can hold up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet or clammy against the skin. Unlike cotton or synthetic fabrics, it keeps insulating when damp, making it a smart choice for unpredictable weather and high-output activity.

Fire Resistant
Merino wool is naturally fire-resistant and self-extinguishing. It will not melt or stick to your skin like synthetic fabrics. A trusted option for first responders, campfire safety, or any high-heat environment.

UV Protection
Our Merino wool clothing helps protect you from the sun’s harmful rays, with different levels of UPF based on fabric weight:

• Microweight (145 GSM): UPF 20

• Lightweight (170 GSM): UPF 25

• Midweight (245 GSM): UPF 50+

• Heavyweight (400 GSM): UPF 50+
  

These natural UV-blocking properties make Merino wool ideal for long days or the beach or above treeline.

Renewable and Sustainable
Merino wool is a natural, biodegradable fiber with a low environmental footprint. Grown by Australian Merino sheep and shorn seasonally, it is a renewable material that supports responsible farming practices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nikwax Wool Wash

Why shouldn't I use regular detergent on my Merino wool base layers?

Regular household detergents and fabric softeners can leave behind residues that interfere with the natural wicking properties of wool. This can cause the fabric to retain moisture rather than release it, leading to slower drying times and reduced comfort during activity. Nikwax Wool Wash is formulated specifically to avoid this problem.

Can Nikwax Wool Wash be used on synthetic base layers?

Nikwax Wool Wash is formulated specifically for wool clothing. If your base layer is made from synthetic material rather than Merino wool, a different Nikwax product designed for synthetic fabrics would be a better fit for the wash.

How often should I use Nikwax Wool Wash on my Merino wool items?

Nikwax Wool Wash is recommended after your wool base layers, socks, travel clothing, or knitwear have been worn a few times. Regular use helps remove built-up odor, restore softness, preserve breathability, and maintain the moisture-wicking and quick-drying performance that makes Merino wool such a reliable choice for active use.

Is Nikwax Wool Wash safe for sensitive skin?

Yes. Nikwax Wool Wash is designed to be gentle while still effectively cleaning and conditioning wool fabric. It is also water-based, biodegradable, non-toxic, and free of volatile organic compounds, making it a practical choice for households that prioritize gentler, more environmentally conscious cleaning products.

What sizes does Minus33 offer for Nikwax Wool Wash?

Minus33 offers Nikwax Wool Wash in two convenient sizes to suit different laundry needs, whether you are washing a few items occasionally or maintaining a larger wool clothing collection on a regular basis.