Mineral wool's great stuff, especially if you're sensitive to the itch factor. Helped my brother-in-law insulate his basement studio last summer, and we went with mineral wool too. Definitely easier on the skin, but man, that stuff still finds a way into your clothes somehow...
Funny you mention the cold shower trick—I learned that one the hard way after my first attic job. Wish someone had warned me beforehand. Live and learn, right?
Mineral wool definitely beats the pink stuff, but you're right—somehow it still sneaks into your clothes. Helped a buddy redo his home theater last year, and even though we wore long sleeves and gloves, I swear I was still finding fibers days later. Didn't know about the cold shower trick back then either...wish I'd seen this thread sooner. At least next time I'll be prepared, haha.
Mineral wool's decent, but honestly, I wouldn't hype it up too much. Helped my brother-in-law insulate his garage last summer, and even with masks and gloves, we were itching like crazy afterward. Maybe it's slightly better than fiberglass, but it's still a pain to deal with. Personally, I've switched to cellulose insulation—way less itchy and easier to handle overall. Costs a bit more upfront, but worth it for the sanity factor alone...
Cellulose is definitely easier on the skin, but keep in mind it settles over time and can lose some R-value. I've had good luck with mineral wool by taping sleeves and pant legs shut—sounds silly, but it helps a lot with the itching.
"I've had good luck with mineral wool by taping sleeves and pant legs shut—sounds silly, but it helps a lot with the itching."
Haha, been there myself. Another trick I've found helpful is baby powder—sounds weird, but dusting your arms and neck before suiting up really cuts down on irritation. Also, don't underestimate a quick cold rinse afterward; hot water opens pores and makes the itch worse. Learned that one the hard way after a long day in the attic...
