Gail writes:
<<it's the alkali in the soaps that breaks down the grease and mixed
with the alkali, washes down the drain.>>
Alkali does dissolve grease, but so does detergent. If the detergent is
designed for protein fibers, or for hands (dishwashing liquid), then
it's going to be friendly to wool. Dishwashing liquid is designed to
cut grease quickly, so it works well on wool without the alkali damage.
<<The other point made is the quality of your water. If it's hard, lots
of minerals, you won't get the grease out easily.>>
Our water is very hard, but I have no problems getting the grease out of
wool, provided I use enough detergent and hot enough water.
<<Having a tiny bit of grease residue in the fiber for home processing
is ok.>>
I disagree with this :) A 'tiny bit' might not cake up on the teeth of
combs, handcards, drumcards, etc. But the fiber will feel stiffer and
more unpleasant, and be harder to prepare and spin, as the remaining
grease oxidizes. It might not be immediately noticeable if there's only
a 'tiny bit', but it will show up eventually.
<<It prefers a more acid ph of around 5 to 6. That's why we use
vinegar in our dye baths.>>
Actually, the acid in a dyebath for protein fibers is a catalyst to the
dyeing process. Without acid, you don't get good dyeing.
Holly
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