Nothing more dramatic than your favorite sweater suddenly coming out of the wash as a crop top! Wool clothing (merino, alpaca, mohair) is best washed as little as possible in the first place, and is best ventilated. Crocheted or knitted items are delicate so it is best to wash them by hand at cold or lukewarm temperatures. Still using the washing machine? Avoid horror stories by checking the washing instructions, use a small amount of wool detergent but no fabric softener and choose a low rpm (around 400). What about drying? Never wring out wool clothing or put it in the dryer. Rather roll the garment in a towel to soak up excess water, then let it dry flat on a flat surface with a towel underneath.