How to Clean Stains on a Wool Jacket

By: S.R. Becker

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A coat made of wool is a classic that will keep you warm and last for many years if you care for it properly. While dry cleaning your wool coat before storing it at the end of every season prolongs its life, too much dry cleaning isn't good for the fibers. If you get a stain on your coat between cleanings, immediate spot removal with soap and water or solvent is your best bet. Oil-based stains such as salad dressing or lipstick require a different method of removal than water-based stains such as tomato sauce or coffee.

Water-Based Stains

Step 1

Blot wet stains with a clean, white rag to absorb as much of the liquid as possible. If the stain is already dry, dampen the rag and blot up as much of the stain as you can. Do not rub, as this can spread the stain.

Step 2

Rinse the rag thoroughly and apply a drop of clear liquid soap, such as soap for washing dishes by hand or detergent formulated to work on wool fabrics. Rub the cloth together to make a light lather.

Step 3

Blot the stain again with the soapy rag until the stain comes out. Rinse the rag and blot the soap away with plain water.

Oil-Based Stains

Step 1

Dampen a clean, white rag with stain-removing solvent. Blot the stain until it comes out.

Step 2

Rinse the rag thoroughly and apply a drop of clear liquid soap, such as soap for washing dishes by hand or detergent formulated to work on wool fabrics. Rub the cloth together to make a light lather.