Put side by side and taking monetary consideration out of the equation, many people will choose natural fiber fabrics over fabrics made from synthetic material.
Even at times, most people will look beyond the cost and go for that fabric made from natural fabric just because of the advantageous qualities offered by these fabrics and to avoid likely health hazards that may arise from using synthetic material.
We have several types of natural fabrics, but our focus in this article will be on wool fabrics.
Wool fabric is one of the most popular natural fabrics due to its remarkable properties, which stand it out among its peers.
I know you may already know some of these qualities, but is wool fabric waterproof? Read this helpful article to find out!
What are wool fabrics?
It is a natural fiber made from several animal hairs like sheep, goats, alpacas, camels, rabbits, and so many others.
This natural fiber fabric is ecologically friendly and has been used since its emergence by man as a source of warmth and comfort.
Wool fabric has a lot of outstanding properties, but it is highly coveted for its durability and the incredible thermal insulation it offers.
This fabric type is primarily used in making items such as horse rugs, insulation, blanket, carpets, upholsteries, saddle clothes, e.t.c.
Are wool fabrics waterproof?
No, wool fabrics are not waterproof. Wool fabric may boast of so many outstanding qualities, but waterproof is not one of them.
However, the material is still capable of repelling water because they contain natural lanolin, and how its fibers are shaped (they are shaped like scale).
What are the properties of wool fabrics?
- Wool fabric has excellent thermal insulation, which makes them ideal for cold weather or seasons.
- Wool fabrics are naturally elastic, and therefore, they can stretch to a certain extent.
- Fabrics made from wool fibers are capable of keeping their shape and can recover quickly from creases.
- Wool fabrics are generally solid, durable, and resistant to tear.
- It has excellent draping qualities.
- Wool fabrics can be easily dyed in virtually any color and are colorfast.
- Wool fabric is a natural water repellant that absorbs water.
What are the advantages of wool fabric?
- Wool is made from natural protein fiber from sheep and other animals. By using this fabric, you will enjoy some properties that are impossible to match with synthetic materials.
- Wool fabric is renewable and, therefore, not likely to be extinct. Wool fabric is made essentially with woolly fleece, which is gotten from sheep, so as long as sheep keep having access to grass and growing, wool fabrics will never cease to exist.
- Wool fabrics are highly biodegradable as they tend to decompose quickly and naturally into the soil, adding valuable nutrients to the soil.
- It is straightforward to clean wool fabric as they do not absorb stains; instead, they remain on the fabric’s surface. Hence, they can be easily removed.
- Wool can absorb odor from sweat just as it can easily take up moisture produced by the skin, as well as sweat that results from perspiration.
- Wool fabric is wrinkle-resistant, and this is because of how its fiber is structured: they are assembled like a coiled string. This allows the materials to return to their original shape after being bent or wrinkled.
What do wool fabrics feel like?
Before wool fabrics are processed or washed, it usually feels oily.
After the processing stage, the fabric usually assumes a soft feel. Wool fabrics, at times, can also feel warm and strong.
Types of wool fabric
1. Morino fabrics
The natural fiber used for making Morino fabrics is obtained from Morino sheep, hence the name.
This fabric is considered by many as the best Morino fabric and is widely used in making all sorts of garments and apparel and also used in industrial settings.
2. Cashmere wool fabric
Cashmere wool is a soft and delicate wool fabric, and even though they are lightweight, they are still pretty much as durable as other wool types and also one of the most expensive.
This fabric is popularly used in making gloves, hosiers, cold gear, shirts, blazers, caps, and sweaters.
3. Virgin wool fabric
Virgin wool is made from the first shearing of lamb.
This wool fabric type is also commonly referred to as recycled wool and is popular for its durability, softness, and excellent moisture-wicking capacities.
Virgin wool fabrics are primarily used to make rugs, blankets, jumpers, slippers, etc.
4. Camel wool fabric
Camel wool fabric is made from camel’s undercoats, which are usually obtained during the coat shedding of the animal.
This fabric is suitable for making overcoat fabrics, carpets, knitwear, blankets, and some other household items.
5. Vicuna wool fabric
Vicuna wool fabric is made from Vicuna’s fleece, a South American camelid.
Vicuna wool fabric is considered the most expensive of all the fabric types and is mainly used to make suit insulation, throws, sweaters, scarves, socks, and other homewares.
What is the durability of wool fabric?
The durability of Wool fabrics cannot be gauged. However, I can give you a broad view of their durability.
Before work fibers can break, they will have to be bent at least 20000 times which is why they usually last longer than most other fibers, whether it be synthetic or natural. This is also the reason why the fabric is resistant to tears and abrasion.
What country does wool fabric come from?
Mainly, there are three significant wool fabric producers: New Zealand, China, and Australia.
Of all these three major countries, China is the biggest importer of fiber, while Australia is the biggest exporter.
Other producers of wool include Iran, South Africa, Russia, and the UK.
Is wool fabric resistant to mildew?
Yes, wool fabric is resistant to mildew.
Besides being a great water repellant, wool fabrics contain both antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which are the fatty acids in the thin waxy coatings found in wool fiber. These fatty components prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
