Sun Airing vs Washing: Natural Wool Sanitisation Methods

Caring for your wool bedding doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, when it comes to wool sanitisation methods, sometimes the simplest options are also the most effective. Two of the most trusted techniques? Sun-airing wools and washing, both offering different benefits depending on the season, your routine, and the condition of your bedding.

If you’ve been wondering how to keep your wool quilts or underlays clean, fresh, and long-lasting without compromising the fibres, you’re in the right place.

Why Wool Needs Special Care

Wool is a natural fibre with incredible self-cleaning properties. It resists odours, wicks away moisture, and is naturally breathable – all of which reduce the need for frequent washing. But like any bedding, it still benefits from regular maintenance to keep it fresh and hygienic.

That’s where smart sanitisation methods come in, and understanding the difference between sun airing and washing can help extend the life of your wool products.

Sun Airing Wool: Nature’s Simple Sanitiser

Sun airing is exactly what it sounds like: placing your wool bedding outside, ideally in direct sunlight, to naturally freshen and sanitise it.

Here’s why it works:

• UV sanitisation: The sun’s ultraviolet rays help kill bacteria, dust mites, and odour-causing microbes.
• Moisture release: Natural airflow allows trapped moisture and humidity to evaporate, keeping your bedding dry and odour-free.
• Wool-safe: No harsh detergents or water is needed!

For best results, hang your quilt or underlay in full sun for a few hours, flipping it halfway through to expose both sides. It’s especially effective for light maintenance between deeper cleans, and is one of the oldest, most sustainable wool sanitisation methods.

Washing Wools When a Deeper Clean is Needed

While sun-airing wool is great for regular upkeep, sometimes you’ll need a more thorough clean, especially if spills, sweat, or allergens are involved.

Washing wool should always be done with care. Here’s how to do it right:

• Use cold water and a gentle wool detergent.
• Wash on a delicate cycle or by hand.
• Avoid harsh spin cycles and high heat — these can damage the fibres or cause shrinkage.
• Dry flat or in the shade to maintain shape and integrity.

Need a full how-to? Check out our guide on how to wash a quilt to keep your wool bedding in top condition.

So, Which Method Is Best?

The short answer: both!

• Use sun airing regularly, every 1–2 weeks, to naturally refresh and deodorise.
• Use washing as needed, perhaps every few months, or when there’s visible soiling or an odour that airing won’t fix.

Also, don’t forget to review how often you’re changing your sheets and other bedding layers. We cover this in more detail in our blog on how often should you change your bedding.

Caring for Wool the Natural Way with Woolstar

At Woolstar, we believe natural fibres deserve natural care. That’s why we encourage customers to use low-impact, effective techniques like sun-airing wool and gentle washing to keep your quilts, toppers, and underlays fresh.

Our Australian-made wool products are crafted to last, and when you care for them the right way, they’ll reward you with years of clean, comfortable, and breathable sleep.

Explore our range of natural wool bedding today, and sleep easier knowing your bedding is as clean as it is cosy.