Wool is evaluated as what, and what does it mean?

Wool is evaluated as "grease fleece," which refers to the wool in its natural state immediately after being shorn from the sheep, prior to any washing or processing. This term signifies that the wool still contains natural oils and other impurities, such as dirt and vegetable matter. The condition of grease fleece is critical for wool processing, as it determines the cleaning and preparation methods needed to convert the raw material into a usable product. In contrast, other terms like "greasy wool," "clean fleece," and "raw wool" describe different stages or conditions of wool that have varying levels of cleanliness and processing. Understanding these terms is essential for anyone involved in the wool industry, as it relates directly to quality assessment and handling practices.