Guides

Is it really wool? How to read "wool" listings on Amazon

"Wool" in the title doesn't mean wool in the sweater. Here's how to tell.

1. Titles are marketing

While building TruTag we found a "Women's Wool Blend" sweater on Amazon whose fabric line read 45% Nylon, 30% Acrylic, 20% Viscose, 5% Wool. It's a wool sweater in name only.

2. Read the fabric line, not the photos

On the product page, look under Product details for Fabric type. The first fiber listed is usually the biggest share, but always read the percentages.

3. Know the look-alikes

• Acrylic is a synthetic that's often used to imitate wool. It's common in cheap "wool" sweaters.
• Nylon and polyester are frequently blended in for strength and cost.
• Viscose (rayon) is made from wood pulp, but it's chemically processed and isn't wool.
• Merino, cashmere, alpaca and mohair are real animal fibers, so check they're listed with a percentage.

4. "Wool blend" can mean almost anything

There's no minimum amount of wool implied by "blend". A garment that's 5% wool and one that's 80% wool can both be called a wool blend. If a listing says "wool blend" with no percentages, assume it's not mostly wool.

5. Check the care line

Real wool usually says hand wash, dry clean or a wool cycle. "Machine wash, tumble dry" on a "wool" sweater is often a hint it's mostly synthetic. It's a clue, not proof, so always confirm with the fabric line.

Why it matters: the numbers on synthetic fabric, with sources.