There’s nothing like the warmth and style a wool sweater brings to your wardrobe. They’re versatile and hold their shape exceptionally well over time, all while regulating temperature and wicking away moisture better than synthetic blends ever could.

But there’s one thing we see hold people back - they’re worried about ending up with an itchy wool sweater they never want to wear. So why are wool sweaters itchy? More importantly, are ALL wool sweaters itchy? 

This issue can be traced back to fibre thickness. Traditional wool has coarser fibres that can rub against the skin and cause irritation, especially if your skin is particularly sensitive. So are Merino wool sweaters itchy? Nope!

This specific type of wool is made from much finer, softer fibres that are far less likely to itch. This is the gold standard, and it’s what our Irish wool sweaters are crafted from here at Aran Sweater Market.

Learn more about how to make wool sweaters less itchy if you already have one in your wardrobe and want to try to make it work. But if layering, washing, and conditioning don’t save your itchy wool sweater, it’s time to make the upgrade at Aran.

Whether you want a wool sweater for women or wool sweater for men, we craft our garments in Ireland using traditional Aran stitches and premium yarns for lasting comfort and zero compromise. With a 90-day money-back guarantee, you can rest assured you’ll LOVE it!

Overview of Wool Sweaters

Wool is a natural fibre harvested from the fleece of sheep, and has been used in textiles for thousands of years for its durability, insulation, and breathability. 

Here’s why it’s one of the most popular materials for sweaters today, even though synthetic blends are much more affordable and accessible:

• Natural insulation: Wool traps heat while letting moisture escape, so you stay dry and comfortable in any conditions.
• Breathability: Wool lets air circulate to reduce sweat buildup, unlike synthetics.
• Moisture-wicking: Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp. So even if you do sweat, you may not notice it.
• Odour resistance: Wool’s natural antibacterial properties reduce odour buildup over time. This means you won’t have to worry about washing your wool sweater nearly as often as other types of garments. 
• Durability: High-quality wool fibres resist wear, stretching, and shrinking better than most fabrics. A good wool sweater can last decades with proper care.
• Eco-friendliness: Wool is biodegradable, renewable, and again, doesn’t need to be washed all that often.
• Shape retention: Wool bounces back to its original form after wear, so it’ll look just as good a few years from now as the day you unbox your Aran sweater.
• Classic aesthetic: Wool knitwear is timeless, whether you're wearing a chunky fisherman sweater or a lightweight layer.

But as versatile and functional as wool is, it’s not always synonymous with comfort. You might already know that if you’ve worn a low-quality wool sweater. This begs the question, why are wool sweaters itchy - and are ALL wool sweaters itchy?

Why Are Wool Sweaters Itchy?

As we said from the start, not all wool sweaters are itchy. This is NOT something you’ll have to deal with when you shop at Aran Sweater Market. But why are wool sweaters itchy in the traditional sense? It all comes down to fibre diameter.

Fibres are measured in microns, and the thicker the fibre, the more likely it is to feel scratchy on the skin. The vast majority of wool sweaters on the market are made with fibres exceeding 30 microns. It’s no wonder they feel so stiff and inflexible!

These coarse fibres don’t bend when they come into contact with sensitive skin. They press into the skin and trigger nerve endings, which you interpret as that itchiness. Traditional wool from heritage sheep breeds, or poorly processed wool, often falls into this coarser category.

But fibre treatment plays a role in the itchy wool sweater stigma as well. Wool that hasn't been properly cleaned or processed may still contain lanolin (a natural oil), residual plant matter, or harsh chemicals from dyeing and finishing. Each of these can contribute to skin irritation.

Ultimately, you get what you pay for. Cheap wool sweaters tend to include synthetic blends or rough backing materials that make matters worse from a discomfort standpoint. NOW - it’s important to note some people are actually allergic to wool, though this is very rare. 

We also want to touch on the role of your environment in how itchy you perceive wool to be. Dry air or overly sensitive skin in winter can increase irritation, even from wools that might not cause a reaction.

However, none of this means you should write off wool entirely. The key is choosing the right kind of wool. So, are merino wool sweaters itchy as well?

Are Merino Wool Sweaters Itchy, Too?

Short answer: no. High-quality Merino wool sweaters are not itchy. In fact, Merino wool is one of the softest and most comfortable natural fibres clothing can be made from, which is why we choose it for our handknit sweaters at Aran.

Think back to fibre diameter. Merino wool usually measures between 17-21 microns, much finer than traditional wool. These thin fibres bend easily when they touch the skin, so they don’t cause the irritation or prickling sensation coarser wools are notorious for.

Merino wool is also naturally breathable and temperature-regulating, perfect for both winter warmth and mild-weather layering. It adapts to your body’s needs, keeping you dry, ventilated, and comfortable in any conditions.

It also has a natural elasticity, so sweaters made from merino wool hold their shape for years without developing that saggy, droopy look that cheaper wool sweaters are known for. Merino wool seems to snap back to its original form wash after wash.

Aran only uses premium-grade Merino wool, spun and knit in Ireland using traditional Aran patterns so if you’re tired of settling for an itchy wool sweater, make the upgrade today. Otherwise, we’ll walk you through how to make wool sweaters less itchy below.

How to Make Wool Sweaters Less Itchy

Wait, can you really transform an itchy wool sweater into a soft, comfortable garment? It’s important to set your expectations. A cheap wool sweater will never contend with the merino wool sweaters in our catalogue at Aran.

That said, there are some practical ways to reduce irritation and make a sweater made from coarser wool more wearable. Here are some tips you can try.

What to Wear Under Itchy Wool Sweater

The simplest solution is to add a lightweight layer between your skin and the sweater. A long-sleeve cotton or bamboo shirt, turtleneck, or base layer protects your skin from direct fibre contact.

Look for form-fitting tops that won’t bunch or add bulk under your sweater. Neutral tones work best if your sweater has an open weave or lighter colour.

Washing and Conditioning Tips

Wool softens with gentle washing, so don’t rush into wearing a brand-new wool sweater. Hand wash it first using cold water and a wool-safe detergent, then lay it flat to dry. Heat, agitation, and tumble drying can all shrink or roughen the fibres.

You may even consider adding a small amount of lanolin-based wool conditioner during the rinse to restore softness to a weathered garment, replenishing natural oils and breathing fresh life into it. 

Avoid fabric softeners, though. These simply coat the fibres rather than nourishing them. They can also reduce wool’s breathability and make matters worse in the long run.

Choosing the Right Weave and Knit Structure

Not all wool sweaters are created equal - even those made from the same exact fibre can feel different. Tighter knits tend to feel smoother against the skin, while looser weaves may have more direct fibres contact, especially at pressure points like shoulders and cuffs.

Heavier-gauge knits can also feel softer given the yarn density. Take a moment to feel the inside of the garment if you’re shopping in person. Pay attention to areas like seams and collars, which are often the most irritating.

This obviously isn’t possible if you’re shopping online, which can leave you feeling a bit more uncertain about placing your order. The good news is you won’t have to worry when you shop at Aran - your order is protected by our 90-day money-back guarantee!

Avoid the Itch Altogether at Aran Sweater Market!

There’s a better solution than trying to work around scratchy sweaters. Start with a wool sweater that doesn’t itch in the first place. 

So are Merino wool sweaters itchy when you shop at Aran Sweater Market? Absolutely not! We specialise in premium, next-to-skin soft knitwear made from 100% natural Merino wool chosen for its fine fibres, flexibility, and durability.

Each sweater is crafted in Ireland using time-honored Aran patterns - like the cable, honeycomb, and diamond stitches. This brings not only comfort but meaningful tradition into every design.

We never cut corners with blends or mass production. Instead, we prioritise breathable materials, quality construction, and heritage-backed design that you can feel in every stitch. Whether you’re shopping for warmth, longevity, or skin-friendly comfort, our sweaters do it all.

Don’t just take our word for it, either. With thousands of positive reviews, you can rest assured you’re getting a wonderful wool sweater without the itch!

“We ordered a Women's merino Aran sweater and a fringed sheep scarf last week. Delivery was spot on. The order was exactly what we wanted. The sweater is so soft. The scarf is great too! Thank you so much for producing such wonderful products.” - Norman

“Fortunately, we had no issues with our recent purchase. My husband and I both bought a sweater and we love how they fit and look. They are so soft and warm, just in time for this cold snap!” - Melinda

“Everything I purchased was beautiful and well-made. I can never have enough good things to say about the quality of the items purchased. The shipping was fast, the sweaters were soft and beautiful in colour, and I know they will last forever. The only way it could be better is if I had been able to go back to the Aran Islands again and get them myself.” - Michelle

Wrapping Up Our Itchy Wool Sweater Guide 

So, are merino wool sweaters itchy? In closing, these are nothing like other, lower-quality wool sweaters made from thicker, coarser fibres. They bring you all the warmth, durability, and timeless style you love about wool in a softer, more comfortable garment.

But why not feel the difference firsthand at Aran Sweater Market? Shop today and discover our collection of authentic Irish Merino wool sweaters, made to last and designed to envelope the skin in comfort with every wear.