Prickly sweater: How to ensure comfort from woolen clothes
How to make sure that a prickly sweater does not irritate the skin (photo: Freepik)
Wool is a wonderful natural material that never loses its popularity. But wool clothes have a significant drawback - they are not very pleasant to the touch for sensitive skin. How can this be fixed?
Wool is a versatile material
Woolen clothing is an indispensable part of a winter wardrobe. Thanks to its ability to retain heat even in extreme cold, wool has become one of the most popular materials. It also allows air to pass through, allowing the body to breathe, and removes excess moisture.
However, this material also has a significant drawback: it can cause itching and irritation. It is important to know how to choose the right woolen products to maintain comfort and avoid unpleasant sensations.
Why wool prickles
The main cause of discomfort is the thickness of the wool fibers. The thicker the fibers, the coarser they feel to the touch and the more they irritate the skin. Merino or alpaca wool has the most delicate fibers, while ordinary sheep's wool is often "prickly".
Another reason is lanolin, a natural wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of animals. It can cause allergic reactions such as itching, sneezing, or even rashes. Knowing the properties of different types of wool will help you avoid problems with skin sensitivity.
How to reduce itching: proven methods
If the cause of discomfort is an allergy to lanolin, the best solution is to replace woolen clothing with alternative materials. In all other cases, you can use several methods to make your clothes more comfortable:
Laundry gels. They soften the fibers, reducing their coarseness, but the effect does not last long. For a longer-lasting result, choose products with special wool-softening ingredients.
Shampoo and conditioner. Soak the clothes in warm water with shampoo, apply conditioner, leave for 5 minutes, rinse thoroughly, and dry horizontally. This method not only makes the wool softer but also preserves its elasticity.
Vinegar. Dissolve a teaspoon of vinegar and salt in 10 liters of water and rinse your clothes in it - it will make them more pleasant to the touch. Regular use of vinegar helps to keep wool in excellent condition.
Freezing. Wet the item, place it in a bag, and leave it in the freezer for a day - this will help remove the prickly fibers. This method also reduces static electricity in wool products.
A prickly sweater can be easily transformed into a gentle and skin-friendly one (photo: Freepik)
Proper care for woolen items
To keep woolen clothes soft, it is important to dry them properly. Lay things out horizontally to avoid deformation and damage to the fibers.
High temperatures can also help: use a steam generator but do not touch the fabric with the hot surface. Additionally, you can store things in special covers to protect them from dust and moisture.
Regular care will extend the life of your favorite things and make them more comfortable.
Is it worth giving up wool
Although wool has its drawbacks, its properties are hard to replace. It remains one of the warmest materials for winter clothing. With the right type of wool and care, you can avoid itching and maintain comfort.
If lanolin allergy is not a problem, you should simply try the methods of fiber softening mentioned above. If used correctly, woolen products will become not only warm but also pleasant to the touch.
Sources: WebMD, Real Simple, Sant Plus.
