Characteristics of Wool Fabric
- Wool's microscopic scales hold dirt near the surface of the fabric, making it easy to remove.
- Wool fibers are high in moisture and resist burning. Unlike petroleum-based synthetics, which melt onto the skin when heated, wool turns to ash.
- Wool fabrics return to their original size and shape when washed. The fiber resists pilling and breaking so garments last a long time. Wool doesn't wrinkle, and it repels odor. Untreated wool felts when agitated in hot, soapy water.
- Wool absorbs and releases moisture, insulating the wearer from cold and heat. It wicks sweat from the body, not allowing bacteria to grow. Wool can absorb up to 30 percent of its weight in water before it feels wet to the wearer.
- When lanolin is left in the wool, the fabric repels water.
- Wool takes dyes well, giving stable, long-lasting colors. Wool fabric is susceptible to strong alkali soaps and detergents.