How to Wash a Wool Pea Coat

Place a garment brush on the coat starting at the shoulders. Move the brush gently down the coat to catch debris or loosen a weak stain.

Place a wash cloth under cold water. Squeeze a dab of wool-safe detergent or spray cleaner on the coat. Rub gently back and forth or in a circular motion.

Turn the coat inside out by placing your arm into the sleeve, grabbing the lining and gently pulling the material toward you. Place stain remover directly on the right-side armpit. Rub gently with a wash cloth. Repeat on the left-side armpit. Work the washcloth into the lining, which is usually silk or satin. Freshen the area even when there are no visible stains.

Place the pea coat in a mesh bag. Hold the string and draw the bag shut. The bag helps the coat keep its shape, and prevents snagging on the machine. Toss the bag in the washing machine.

Set the machine on a hand- or delicate-wash cycle, and fill to the top with cold water. Add a mild detergent according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Remove the mesh bag from the washer as soon as the machine stops. Place your finger through the bag's hole to loosen the drawstring. Take the coat out of the bag. Insert your hand in the sleeve and pull the arm right-side out. Repeat with the other arm.

Place a hanger in the pea coat and set it on a door knob or hook. Plug in the iron. Move the setting to steam; wait five minutes until the iron is hot. Put the iron next to the coat and steam the inside fabric to remove wrinkles. Or, slip the coat onto a garment steamer. Pick up the hose and gently move it over the entire inside area, starting at the top and working to the bottom.

Lay the coat on a clean surface large enough to accommodate the coat's size. Smooth out the wool with your hands, and gently shape the coat back to its original form. Let the coat dry completely before putting it on.