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Writer's pictureErica Henry

Raw Wool to Roving Series: Video #3 Comparing Unicorn Power Scour vs. Dawn Original for Washing Wool Fleeces

Updated: Sep 27


Fiber artist Erica Henry holding a cloud of freshly washed and dried fiber in each hand

comparing unicorn power scour and dawn for washing wool

Washing raw wool fleeces can be a delicate process, and choosing the right detergent is key. In my latest video, I put two popular options to the test: Unicorn Power Scour and Dawn Original. I am going to comparing unicorn power scout and dawn for washing wool. Both are widely used for cleaning wool, but which one leaves the fiber cleanest and requires fewer rinses? Let’s dive into the comparison to find out!



Graphic asking which is better Dawn or Power Scour


Why the Right Detergent Matters for Washing Wool

When you’re washing raw wool fleeces, you’re dealing with lanolin, dirt, smells, and even sheep poo. You need a detergent that’s strong enough to remove all of that but gentle enough to avoid damaging the wool. Using something too harsh can strip the fiber, leaving it brittle or rough, while a product that’s too weak won’t effectively clean the wool. That’s why I wanted to compare Unicorn Power Scour and Dawn Original to see which one performs better.


The Comparison: Unicorn Power Scour vs. Dawn Original


  • Designed specifically for washing raw wool and other delicate fibers.

  • Known for being gentle on wool while removing heavy lanolin, dirt, and odors.

  • Claims to require fewer rinses, making the process quicker and more efficient.

Dawn Original

  • A household staple known for cutting through grease and tough stains.

  • Commonly used by fiber artists as an affordable option for washing wool.

  • Effective at removing lanolin and dirt, but can sometimes require more rinsing due to its soapy formula.


Key Factors I Tested

  1. Cleaning Power: How well does each detergent clean the raw wool, removing lanolin, dirt, and smells?

  2. Rinsing: Which product requires fewer rinses to completely remove the detergent from the wool?

  3. Gentleness: Does the wool feel soft and undamaged after washing?


Results and Observations

After washing a raw wool fleece with both Unicorn Power Scour and Dawn Original, here’s what I found:

  • Unicorn Power Scour did an excellent job of cleaning the wool with fewer rinses. The fiber felt soft, and there were no lingering smells or residue.

  • Dawn Original cleaned the wool thoroughly but required more rinses to wash out the suds completely. The fiber was clean, but it took a bit more effort to ensure no soap was left behind.

  • In terms of gentleness, both products performed well. The wool from both washes was soft, though Unicorn Power Scour felt slightly gentler on the fibers.

  • I also love the smell of the unicorn power scour!


Which Detergent Should You Choose for Washing Wool?

If you’re looking for a specialized detergent that cleans wool thoroughly and requires fewer rinses, Unicorn Power Scour is a fantastic option. It’s gentle on delicate fibers while removing tough dirt and lanolin, making it a great choice for high-quality wool care.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for an affordable and accessible alternative, Dawn Original is a solid option. Just be prepared to spend a little more time rinsing to ensure all the soap is removed.


Conclusion

Both Unicorn Power Scour and Dawn Original can effectively clean raw wool fleeces, but Unicorn Power Scour stands out for its ability to get the wool cleaner with fewer rinses. Whether you’re an experienced fiber artist or just starting your wool-washing journey, choosing the right detergent will help you care for your fleeces and ensure they’re clean and ready for spinning or dyeing.


Be sure to check out my video for a full walkthrough of the washing process and see the results firsthand!






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