THE COS GUIDE TO PRODUCT CARE

Wool is both insulating and comfortable to wear, making it an ideal choice for layering. 

An archetype of COS design and a fixture of the modern wardrobe, the wool coat is celebrated for its timeless appeal. It is not recommended to machine wash. Instead, dry clean only when necessary and air to remove odours. 

Wool jumpers don’t require washing after every wear as the fibres have a natural protective coating, making them resistant to dirt and dust. When you do wash a wool jumper, machine wash according to care instructions on a low spin using a mild detergent or wash by hand. Avoid using fabric softener, which coats the fibres and makes them less breathable. 

It is important to air each garment to ventilate and keep odours away, and to dry wool flat on a towel to absorb excess water and retain its shape. Always remove excess water from heavier garments without wringing. A wool comb or shaver can also be used to remove pilling, maintaining a fresh look. 

Wool works well with tailoring due to its durability, smooth drape and inherent crease-resistance. 

To care for a tailored blazer or trousers, machine washing and harsh chemicals should be avoided where possible – only use a dry cleaner when necessary. To remove creases that might form during prolonged wear, steam each garment rather than ironing. 

After cleaning, hang between wears to maintain shape and freshness, as wool is naturally resistant to odours. Resting the garment on a hanger for at least 24 hours allows the fibres to recover their shape after wear. Thick hangers should be used for blazers to maintain shoulder pad structure. A soft-bristled garment brush can be used occasionally to remove dust, dirt and lint in the direction of the fabric weave.