As a longtime fan of Cascade Yarns, I’ve subscribed to their monthly newsletter for years. When the March 2020 issue landed in my inbox with a spotlight on one of my favourite yarns, 220 Superwash Sport, and a feature on how to properly care for superwash wool, I knew it was something I just had to share.
Having knit countless baby items with 220 Superwash Sport, not to mention socks in every colourway of Heritage Prints, hats in 220 Superwash Merino and of course, a Nightshift Shawl in 220 Superwash Wave, I’m no stranger to superwash wool, but I have often wondered if I’ve been treating it properly when it comes time to washing it. The feature in the March 2020 newsletter was exactly what I needed to get over that trepidation, and the folks at Cascade Yarns were kind enough to grant me the permission to share these tips with you. Here are Carly’s tips on caring for superwash wool:
- Use ample water. Friction can cause wear to any natural fibre, especially merino. Cascade 220 Superwash Sport, 220 Superwash Aran and 128 Superwash are all 100% superwash merino, a fine fibre which gives the yarn incredible softness, but also makes it more susceptible to pilling. Many energy efficient washers use low levels of water. Large projects need ample water to allow the piece to swish and not rub up against itself repeatedly, causing undue friction. A mesh bag is also helpful in preventing friction.
- Use the right soap. Superwash yarn is safe for the washing machine, but not necessarily for all of the chemicals found in regular laundry detergent. Many laundry detergents contain enzymes to attack protein-based stains. Wool is a protein-based fibre, which means the enzymes in your detergent can harm the wool. Instead of a conventional detergent, using a soap that is specifically designed for use on wool is recommended. Most local yarn shops carry some type of soap appropriate for use on wool.
- Use the dryer. Superwash yarn has been processed to remove the scales on the fibres. These naturally present scales are responsible for the adhering of the fibres during felting. Without the scales the fibres lose their gripping properties. When yarn is wet it becomes heavy, and in the case of superwash wool, it will stretch if given the opportunity. Superwash wool springs back into shape in the dryer. It is strongly recommended that you tumble dry your projects to prevent overstretching.
It can be hard to get your head around putting wool in the washer and dryer, after all, that’s one of the first things knitters are told never to do. However, now that I understand the properties of superwash wool I took the plunge and followed Carly’s simple steps and the results were better than I could have asked for!
A big thanks to Carly at Cascade Yarns for reminding us that superwash wool is easy care – not zero care! And thanks for giving knitters the confidence to treat their superwash wool works of art with the gentle love they so deserve.