PB TIPS & TRICKS
Sensitive to itchy sweaters? This is what you should know
We’re often asked which types of wool itch and which don’t. Whether or not a knit feels itchy varies per person and wool type, and it also depends on wool processing and care. Here’s what to consider and how to minimize itchiness.
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Sensitive to itchy sweaters? The different types of wool
The range of wool types is vast - think of merino wool, cashmere, alpaca wool, or traditional sheep wool. Each type of wool has its own characteristics, is wonderfully warm during cold days, and has a natural dirt-repelling ability due to lanolin, or wool grease.
But what if you’re sensitive to itchy sweaters? Naturally, you want a soft sweater, not an itchy sweater, which will only end up sitting in your closet. Here are some tips to help with that.
Want to learn more about different types of wool? Read our blog, The ultimate wool guide: which type suits you best? Get to know the various wool types and browse our site like a fabric expert.
Sensitive to itchy sweaters? Tip 1: wait 5 minutes before judging
Wool is a natural product and needs a moment to adjust to your body temperature. Many people don’t know that “warmed-up” wool won’t itch, or will itch less. And we’re all for that!
Have you ever tried on a sweater and immediately thought, “No, this itches - not for me”? Next time, wait five minutes and let the fibers do their job. You’ll likely find that you won’t want to take that wool sweater off afterward.
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Knitted styles
Sensitive to itchy sweaters? Tip 2: look for these types of wool
The itchiness of wool is caused by the scaly outer layer of the wool fiber. Logically, the thicker the wool fiber, the more chance of an itchy feeling. So, look for the finest wool fibers. This often means the costliest but also the highest-quality knits. Merino, cashmere, alpaca wool, and lambswool are especially known for their non-itchy quality.
Dealing with a blend? You’re least likely to feel “itch” if the item is made of at least 30% of one of the above wool types. Want to know more about wool blends? Read our blog, An ode to the wool blend: 5 reasons to love it.
Merino wool, cashmere, alpaca wool, and lambswool are especially known for their non-itchy quality.
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Cashmere styles
Sensitive to itchy sweaters? Tip 3: how to reduce itchiness in a knit
If you have an itchy sweater that’s too beautiful to give up, there are tricks to minimize the itchiness.
Dampen the item with cold water and place it in a plastic bag in the freezer for 24 hours. The cold will cause the fibers to tighten and itch less. Let the sweater dry slowly on a towel and dry completely.
How do you make your hair softer? That’s right - with conditioner. This also works well for wool. Dilute conditioner with lukewarm water and gently knead it in. Then wash it on a wool program in the washing machine and let it air-dry flat. The result? A wool sweater that feels pleasantly soft.
Always use a special wool detergent and the wool setting on your washing machine to keep fibers intact and prevent itching. You can also add a splash of vinegar to the wool detergent. Turn the sweater inside-out to protect the wool fibers.
Note! Sheep wool and other types of wool should never go in the dryer. In the dryer, wool sweaters - and also cardigans, pants, skirts, and dresses - will shrink significantly, which is unfortunately irreversible. We recommend letting wool items air-dry flat on a clean towel.
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Always use wool detergent to keep fibers intact and prevent itching.
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Wool detergents
Sensitive to itchy sweaters? Tip 4: layer your knitwear
Can’t tolerate wool at all or have sensitive skin? There are plenty of stylish ways to wear that gorgeous sweater anyway. Simply wear a turtleneck, long sleeve, blouse, tank top, or even a dress underneath and you’re good to go. Perfect for warmth, protecting your skin, and adding a personal twist to your look.
Need inspiration? Check out our shop the looks section to see how our stylists combine and style wool items. Save your favorite looks to your personal account.
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Layered combinations
As you can see, wearing wool is a bit of an art... Our advice? Just give it a try! One knit is not like the other, and even within a type of wool, fiber thickness (and thus the itch factor) can vary.
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Blog by:
Marissa
Do you have an urgent question about a particular fabric and its properties? Marissa knows everything about fabrics and provides the best maintenance tips. Additionally, she has a talent for mixing and matching styles and materials with a contemporary nonchalance.
