Machine Washable Wool & Wool Blend Yarns

Sometimes machine washable is a must-have, not a nice-to-have — for baby items, everyday accessories, or anything that's going to get real wear and needs to survive a normal laundry routine. This collection narrows our full wool selection down to superwash-treated wool and wool-blend yarns only, spanning nearly every weight from fingering to bulky.

"Superwash" or "machine washable" wool has been treated, usually by coating the fiber or removing its microscopic outer scales, so it won't felt or shrink in the wash the way untreated wool does. That treatment is what makes these yarns safe to machine wash and, in most cases, tumble dry on low — although you should always check the individual product's care label, since exact instructions vary by yarn and manufacturer.

Superwash processing does change the fiber slightly: treated wool often has a bit less bounce and a slightly different hand than untreated wool. For projects where easy care matters more than that extra bounce — baby items, kids' garments, gifts for non-knitters, or anything you don't want to hand wash — superwash is generally the more practical choice.

This collection spans nearly every weight, from fingering sock yarns to bulky sweater and blanket yarns, and includes both 100% superwash wool and wool blended with nylon, alpaca, or other fibers. Check the individual product page for exact fiber content and weight.

Frequently asked questions

Can superwash wool still felt?

Properly superwash-treated wool resists felting even in a washing machine, but it's not indestructible — very high heat or aggressive agitation can still occasionally cause some finished pieces to felt slightly, so following the specific care label is worth it for anything you want to last.

Is superwash wool more prone to pilling?

It can be, since the treatment that prevents felting also smooths the fiber's surface in a way that sometimes makes it easier for loose fibers to work free and pill. This varies significantly by yarn and how tightly it's spun.

Should I choose superwash or non-superwash wool for a sweater?

It depends on your priorities. Superwash is easier to care for and better for anyone who won't want to hand wash the finished piece, while non-superwash wool often has more natural elasticity and can produce a more dramatic block. Both are good choices for sweaters.