What Are the Downsides of Acrylic Yarn? 7 Key Disadvantages
Sullivans International
âą4 min read
Acrylic yarn is a popular, budget-friendly choice for knitting and crochet, but it has several drawbacks that matter for comfort, durability, and sustainability. Understanding these downsides helps you decide when acrylic is suitable and when to choose wool, cotton, or blends.
In this guide, we cover seven key disadvantages of acrylic yarn and when to consider alternatives.
Acrylic yarn is a synthetic fiber made from polymer (petroleum-based) materials. It is affordable, easy to care for, and available in many colors. Unlike natural fibers, acrylic does not wick moisture well and can trap heat.
Acrylic does not wick moisture like wool, cotton, or bamboo. It tends to trap heat and sweat, making garments feel clammyâespecially for socks, scarves, or winter wear. Wool helps regulate temperature by wicking moisture; acrylic does not.
Unlike wool, which bounces back, acrylic yarn tends to stretch and sag with use. This affects:
Tip: For projects needing elasticity, consider acrylic-wool blends or superwash wool.
Many crafters find acrylic stiff, plasticky, or rough compared to merino or cashmere. Premium acrylics can be softer, but budget options often lack the feel of natural fibers.
Acrylic yarn pills more readily than high-quality wool or cotton. Friction causes small fiber balls on the surface. To reduce pilling: hand wash, store folded (not hung), and use a fabric shaver carefully.
Acrylic is petroleum-based and:
Alternatives: Organic cotton, bamboo, recycled yarns, or wool for lower environmental impact.
Unlike wool (which chars) or cotton (which burns slowly), acrylic melts when exposed to high heat. Avoid for:
Safer options: Cotton or wool blends for heat-sensitive items.
Acrylic does not absorb water well and holds shape poorly when blocked. Steam blocking can flatten stitches permanently. Acrylic works best for projects where blocking is not critical (e.g., amigurumi, simple scarves, market bags).
| Need | Acrylic | Better Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Budget-friendly | ïżœ? | ïżœ? |
| Easy machine wash | ïżœ? | Superwash wool |
| Breathability | ïżœ? | Wool, cotton, bamboo |
| Elasticity | ïżœ? | Wool, wool blends |
| Heat resistance | ïżœ? | Cotton, wool |
| Sustainability | ïżœ? | Cotton, wool, recycled |
| Blocking | ïżœ? | Wool, cotton |
Acrylic yarn offers affordability and easy care, but it has drawbacks in breathability, elasticity, pilling, sustainability, and heat resistance. For comfort, durability, and eco-friendliness, consider wool, cotton, or blends. Choose based on your project, budget, and values.
Acrylic is generally safe to wear. Some people find it less comfortable due to poor breathability. Allergies to acrylic are rare; wool allergies are more common.
Yes. Acrylic tends to pill more than high-quality wool or cotton. Hand washing and proper storage can help reduce pilling.
Acrylic blocks poorly. Steam blocking can permanently flatten stitches. Use blocking only when necessary and with care.
Wool, cotton, bamboo, and blends offer better breathability, elasticity, and sustainability. Superwash wool is machine-washable like acrylic.
This article is part of our yarn knowledge series, offering practical insights into fiber types, care, and project selection for knitters and crocheters.