Drying a wool jacket in a dryer can be risky, as wool is a delicate fabric that can shrink or become misshapen if exposed to excessive heat or agitation. It is generally recommended to air dry wool garments to preserve their shape and quality. However, if the care label on your wool jacket explicitly states that it is safe to tumble dry, follow these guidelines:
Check the care label: Before attempting to dry the wool jacket in the dryer, carefully read the care label on the inside of the garment. The care label will provide specific instructions on how to clean and dry the jacket properly.
Use a low-heat setting: If the care label indicates that the jacket is safe for tumble drying, set the dryer to the lowest heat setting available. High heat can cause wool to shrink, so it's crucial to minimize the risk by using gentle heat.
Use a short drying cycle: Select a short drying cycle to minimize the amount of time the wool jacket spends in the dryer. This reduces the chances of over-drying and potential damage to the fabric.
Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls: To help fluff and redistribute the wool fibers during drying, you can add a few dryer balls or clean tennis balls to the dryer. This prevents the wool from clumping together and aids in drying evenly.
Monitor the process: Keep a close eye on the wool jacket during the drying cycle. Check it frequently to prevent over-drying. Once the jacket is mostly dry, remove it from the dryer to finish air drying.
Remember, air drying is the safest method for wool garments. If the care label indicates "dry clean only" or "do not tumble dry," it's best to follow those instructions to avoid damaging your wool jacket. If you're unsure about drying your wool jacket in the dryer, consider laying it flat on a clean towel to air dry or hanging it on a padded hanger to maintain its shape.