Hemp Clothing Vs. Wool Clothing
The type of fiber used to make clothing determines its comfort, durability and quality. Hemp and wool fibers are used in a variety of clothes and shoes and share some similarities, but also have some differences. Hemp fiber, also used in the shipping industry for sails, canvas and rope, is a durable textile fiber known for retaining its shape well. Wool is a thick fiber known for its insulation properties and ability to absorb moisture. Does this Spark an idea?
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Hemp
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Hemp is a strong, natural fiber that softens with repeated use. It is cultivated from hemp, which is a plant that grows in tropical and temperate climates. According to Hemp Traders, hemp yields 250 percent more fiber than cotton using an equivalent amount of land. Among its many characteristics, hemp has a natural resistance to mold and ultraviolet light, and it is porous, which allows it to absorb water and let skin breathe in hot weather to keep a body cool. Hemp's natural durability makes it ideal as a blend with other fibers, such as cotton or silk. Hemp clothing includes T-shirts, tank tops, hoodies, socks and jackets.
Wool
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Unlike hemp, wool is known as a protein fiber that is produced primarily from sheep. The finest and most expensive wool is sheared from lambs and is very soft. Wool is graded by factors such as length, strength and elasticity. The fiber diameter of wool is the key determinant of its quality. Fiber diameter is measured in microns, with one micron equal to one-millionth of a meter. The smaller the fiber diameter, the finer the wool. Cashmere and merino are two types of wool that are of very fine quality and are more expensive than normal wool. Main properties of wool include retention of warmth, moisture absorption and natural elasticity. Wool is also fire-resistant, and does not melt in extreme heat. It is commonly used to manufacture sweaters, jackets, socks, trousers, robes, skullcaps and long underwear.
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Washing
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Hemp clothing can be washed in any temperature, and becomes stronger when it's wet. Clothes made from hemp should be tested to ensure that colors don't bleed. Bleach is not recommended, as it can damage the fibers. Hemp clothes can be dried in a machine or air dried. They are capable of withstanding high temperatures, so they dry quickly and retain their shape. Wool clothing requires more tender care when it is washed. In general, wool garments should be professionally dry cleaned or hand washed in warm water using a mild detergent. When hand washing, care should be taken not to wring the clothing, which can make it lose its shape. Bleach is not recommended for wool clothing, as it can dissolve the fabric. Wool that isn't dry cleaned should be air dried, because machine drying could lead to shrinkage.
Storage
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Hemp clothing is moth-proof. Because the fiber is stretch-resistant, hemp clothes can be stored on hangers or folded in a closet. Wool clothing should be brushed before storing. Mothballs are recommended because wool fiber, unlike hemp fiber, does not have natural moth deterrent properties. For optimal durability, store wool clothes in shrink-wrapped bags or an airtight container. To prevent wrinkles, place pieces of white tissue between folded wool clothes.
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