What Is Superwash Merino? (And Is It Right for Your Knitting?)

If you’ve spent any time looking at yarn, you’ve probably come across the term Superwash merino. It appears on everything from sock yarn to luxury blends, but what does it actually mean — and is it the right choice for your projects?

Hand dyed superwash merino yarn skeins with knitting needles on wooden surface | Market Town Yarns

In simple terms, Superwash merino is wool that has been specially treated so that it can be machine washed without felting. But there’s a little more to it than that.

What Is Merino Wool?

Merino wool comes from the Merino sheep and is prized for its softness, warmth and fine fibres.

Compared to more traditional wools, Merino has:

  • A softer feel against the skin
  • Finer fibres (often measured in microns)
  • Excellent temperature regulation
  • Natural elasticity

That’s why it’s such a popular choice for garments, accessories and next-to-skin projects.

What Does “Superwash” Mean?

Normally, wool fibres have tiny scales that can lock together when exposed to heat, moisture and agitation — which is what causes felting.

Superwash wool has been treated to prevent this.

This is usually done by:

  • Smoothing or removing the outer scales
  • Applying a very fine coating to the fibre

The result is a yarn that can be machine washed without shrinking or felting in the same way untreated wool would.

Why Do Knitters Choose Superwash Merino?

Superwash merino is popular because it combines the softness of merino with added practicality.

It offers:

  • Easier care (often machine washable)
  • Good durability for everyday items
  • Softness suitable for garments and accessories
  • Consistent stitch definition

This makes it a great choice for projects that will be worn and washed regularly.

Are There Any Downsides?

Like any fibre, it depends on what you’re looking for.

Some knitters find that superwash yarn:

  • Has slightly less “grip” than non-superwash wool
  • Can feel a little smoother or more fluid
  • May stretch more depending on the project

For certain techniques or very structured projects, some knitters prefer non-superwash wool for its natural texture and memory.

What About Micron Count?

You’ll often see merino described with a micron count, such as 19.5 micron.

This refers to the thickness of the individual fibres.

Lower micron = finer fibre = softer feel.

For example:

  • Around 19.5 microns feels soft and comfortable for most people
  • Higher micron wool can feel more rustic or robust

This is one of the reasons merino is so widely used in next-to-skin projects.

Is Superwash Merino Right for You?

For many knitters, Superwash Merino is a versatile and reliable choice.

It works particularly well for:

  • Socks
  • Shawls
  • Garments
  • Accessories worn next to the skin

If you want softness combined with practicality, it’s often a great place to start.

Our Approach

At Market Town Yarns, we use Superwash Merino in several of our yarn bases because it offers a balance of softness, durability and ease of care that suits modern knitting.

Many of our yarns use fine merino fibres paired with other materials to enhance strength, structure or drape — depending on the base.

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