What is Mercerized Merino wool?

Merino wool specifically refers to Australian wool, which removes the scales from the surface of the wool and is commonly known as silky wool. Wool treated with mercerizing has good luster and softness, mainly characterized by anti shrinkage, machine washability, and anti pilling.

Merino wool, like cashmere and alpaca wool, is a natural protein fiber. These fibers are rare in animals and have limited production, so their prices are relatively high. Unlike ordinary wool, this type of natural fiber has a thinner surface scale thickness and a lower scale coverage density, resulting in Merino wool fibers having a smooth and soft texture.

Today, mercerized wool has become very popular and its market share has exceeded that of ordinary wool. Mercerized wool is added to many cashmere blend products, with a minimum of 90 strands. Woolen wool is a general term for the fineness of wool fibers, with 90 wool wool equivalent to 17.5um. The commonly referred to 66 wool wool wool in the market actually has a fiber fineness of 19.5um, which is considered a low-grade raw material in Merino wool.

For example, this HESTIA NM2/26 model is made of 70% mercerized wool and 30% cashmere, suitable for 12-guage knitting. It uses 90 strands of mercerized Merino wool, which is comfortable, soft, and cost-effective, making it a popular choice among many brands.

Fineness is the standard for determining the quality and grade of wool. Merino wool is also classified into different grades. For example, this superfine Merino wool has extremely fine fibers with a diameter of around 16.5um. The better Merino wool can reach a diameter of less than 11.7 microns, which is one of the finer wool varieties. However, it does not appear in the market and is mostly used for scientific research. The best Merino wool on the market is 110 wool strands, which have a fineness of 15.5um. The fineness of Merino wool is 1/10 of a single strand of hair, while regular wool is much thicker, and a single strand of hair may be thicker than a single strand.

Merino superfine wool is soft, flowing, and lightweight, with a fineness of 16.5um, making it suitable for making some close fitting clothes. For example, this CIRRO NM1/5.8 82% superfine Merino wool 18% cashmere brushed yarn is a 5-guage knitting yarn. Due to its fancy craftsmanship, wearing it feels soft, skin friendly, and soft.