The process involves cleansing a garment crafted from sheep’s fleece by utilizing manual techniques with water and a gentle cleaning agent. This method avoids the use of automated machinery, opting instead for careful, hands-on treatment to maintain the fabric’s integrity. An example of this practice is when a delicate item, prone to damage in a machine, requires a more controlled and cautious approach to preserve its texture and shape.
The advantage of this approach lies in its ability to extend the life of delicate fabrics, preventing shrinkage, distortion, or damage that can occur with machine washing. It allows for targeted stain removal and greater control over water temperature and agitation, crucial for maintaining the wool’s natural lanolin and preventing felting. Historically, this was the primary method for cleaning garments, and remains a preferred choice for valuable or fragile textiles.