Advice: Okay to Bleach Merino Wool ?

[Seth Brewer]

Got a few pairs of Injinji toe socks at a steep discount – due to the "Lavender" color of them – and while I have nothing against the color purple – I'd love to "tone them down" a bit….BUT not if tossing them in a gentle laundry load with bleach would hurt the wool…anyone know if bleach hurts wool ?

[Dale Wambaugh]

Bleach bad. Look for dye remover.

[Diane Pinkers]

Bleach is definitely bad for wool. I'm a spinner and knitter, and raise my own sheep for wool. Bleach will really break the fibers down, so if you value your socks, don't use bleach. Go to http://www.prochemicalanddye.com, and click on the link for discharge supplies/color removal. The first product, deColourant Discharge agent, is labeled for protein fibers like wool, and they have a statement specifically stating that it will not damage the fibers. If there are any high-tech coatings on the fibers to reduce stains, improve wickability, etc, then it may not work as well, or stripping the dye may alter the performance of the fabric.

[Seth Brewer]

Thanks to Dale and Diane for the advice – I'll be sure to get a proper dye remover so I don't destroy the socks :-) Thanks again !

[Patrick Matte]

Diane's comments are correct.I would also add that another important issues is actually what the manufacture's dye process is,in conjunction with dye blockers and such.

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