Caring for good wool

Brush after every wear

A soft clothes brush lifts dust and fibres before they settle into the weave. Brush downwards, with the nap, paying attention to the shoulders and collar.

Let it rest

Wool recovers its shape when it is left alone. Hang a jacket on a broad, shaped hanger and give it a day off between wears; creases at the elbow and back fall out on their own.

Air, don't wash

Most marks on a suit are surface marks. Air it by an open window overnight, sponge small spots with a damp cloth, and keep dry cleaning for the end of a season — solvent and heat wear the cloth faster than wearing it does.

Steam rather than press

A steamer lifts creases without flattening the lapel roll or shining the cloth. If you do press, use a damp pressing cloth between the iron and the wool.

Store it properly

Before putting tailoring away for a while, have it cleaned, then hang it in a breathable garment bag — never plastic — with cedar to keep moths away. Knitwear is always folded, never hung.