What does superwash mean?

Superwash is a special method where wool is processed and treated to make it suitable for machine wash at high temperatures. Natural wool cannot withstand high temperatures as it destroys the fibres, which is why wool often shrinks in the washing machine.

When wool yarn is superwash treated it therefore allows you to wash your homemade knitwear in the washing machine.

How is the wool processed with superwash?

When wool is processed with superwash, the natural scales from the wool fibres are removed with an acid bath and chlorine. Then a coating with polymer is applied to make a new protective layer over each fibre. This layer prevents the fibres from binding together and the clothes from shrinking during washing. Polymer is a plastic substance and therefore not natural, but it is not allergenic or harmful.

You can tell the difference between plain wool yarn and superwash yarn because superwash gives the wool a smoother surface. The fibres are not so frayed because the scales are etched away and coated with polymer. Superwash is also called mercerised yarn, although this term is often used in connection with cotton yarn.

How is superwash yarn maintained?

Although superwash yarn is more suitable for machine wash, you still need to wash it on a wool or gentle program. Most superwash yarns can withstand temperatures up to 40 C, while some types can withstand even higher temperatures. As with regular wool yarn, avoid using fabric softener and tumble drying.

Superwash yarn is ideal if you are making knitwear for daily use that needs to be washed often. You should note that some of the special properties of wool, including the insulating and absorbing effect, will deteriorate when each fibre is coated with an overlayer.

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