Snow Washing: Nature’s Zero-Waste Dry Cleaner

It might sound counterintuitive to take your cozy, warm knits out into the freezing cold, but bear with us. If you live in a part of Canada that gets treated to fresh powder every winter, you actually have access to one of the best (and most sustainable) dry cleaners right in your backyard.

We are talking about snow washing.

While it might be trending on social media right now, this method has deep roots in Nordic countries, where it is known as snötvätt. It is a simple, zero-waste way to refresh your wool garments without using a drop of water or a capful of detergent.

If you are looking to simplify your laundry routine and extend the life of your favourite sweaters, here is why you should give snow washing a try.

What is snow washing?

Snow washing is exactly what it sounds like: using snow to clean your clothes. But before you toss your entire hamper into a snowbank, it is important to know that this method is specifically designed for natural fibers like wool, cashmere, mohair, and sheepskin.

Wool is a unique material. It is naturally coated in lanolin, a wax that helps repel water and dirt. When we wash wool in a machine—even on a delicate cycle—the agitation and warm water can strip away that natural lanolin or cause the fibers to shrink and felt.

Snow washing uses the freezing temperatures to kill bacteria and the absorbent properties of snow to pull out surface dust and odors, all while being incredibly gentle on the fabric.

Why we love this method

At The Bare Home, we are always looking for ways to make our homes safer and our routines more sustainable. Snow washing checks every box.

1. It preserves your clothes

Since there is no heat or harsh agitation, your wool keeps its shape better. The process refreshes the fabric without stripping the fibers, meaning your favorite chunky knit lasts longer.

2. It is completely eco-friendly

This method requires zero electricity and zero water. In a world where we are trying to reduce our environmental footprint, swapping a machine wash for a snow wash is a small but meaningful choice.

3. It deodorizes naturally

Have you ever noticed how distinct and crisp the air smells in winter? That cold air, combined with the UV rays from the sun (even on cloudy days), works wonders for neutralizing odors that get trapped in our clothes.

How to snow wash your wool

Ready to try it? You need the right conditions first. This method only works with dry, powdery snow. If the snow is heavy, wet, or slushy, do not attempt this—you will end up with a wet, soggy sweater that might shrink. It also needs to be consistently below freezing (ideally -5°C or colder).

Step 1: Spot treat if needed

Snow washing is amazing for refreshing and deodorizing, but it won't remove heavy stains like coffee or spaghetti sauce. If you have visible marks, use The Bare Home Stain Stick to spot-treat those specific areas first. Rinse and let dry.

Step 2: Chill your garment

This is the most important step! Put your sweater or rug outside (in a dry spot) for about an hour before you lay it in the snow. If the fabric is warm when it hits the snow, it will melt the crystals and get wet. We want the fabric to stay dry.

Step 3: The snow bath

Find a patch of clean, fresh snow. Lay your garment flat. Scoop up generous handfuls of clean snow and pile it on top of the garment. Gently pat the snow into the fabric—remember, be gentle! Flip the garment over and repeat on the other side.

Step 4: Let it rest

Leave the item in the snow for 10 to 15 minutes. This gives the cold time to work its magic on bacteria and the snow crystals time to absorb surface dust.

Step 5: Shake and dry

Pick up the garment and give it a vigorous shake to remove all the snow. Because the garment and snow were both freezing, the snow should fly right off without melting into the fabric. Bring it inside and lay it flat to dry on a rack (just in case there is a tiny bit of moisture left).

When to stick to the sink

While we love this method, it isn't a magic wand for everything.

• Deep Stains: As mentioned, snow creates a surface clean. For deep grime, you will still need a traditional hand wash.
• Synthetics: This method relies on the unique structure of animal fibers. Your synthetic gym gear or cotton hoodies won't get the same benefits.
• Wet Weather: If the temperature is hovering around zero or the snow is sticky, skip it. The goal is a "dry" clean.

Snow washing connects us to the simple powers of nature. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most effective solutions are the simplest ones. Next time the powder falls, bundle up and give it a try!