What is Merino Wool?

"Merino wool is the world's premier natural apparel fibre, bringing together luxury, comfort and technical performance in a way few materials can." Woolmark.

Merino wool is a natural fibre with some amazing properties:

🌡️ Keeps you warm and cool, working with your body to support thermoregulation

🧼 Wear more, wash less with its antibacterial and anti-odour properties

👶 Perfect for sensitive skin, scientifically proven to improve eczema

🌿 Sustainable, natural fibre that is durable, lasting decades when cared for

But what is merino wool?

Merino wool comes from the merino breed of sheep which is significantly finer and softer than most other sheep wool, making it a lightweight, versatile option for natural warmth and comfort that can be worn directly against the skin.

The list of benefits is impressive and you can choose what matters most to you. Babies sleep better, kids play outside longer, and adults stay warm and transition between conditions without feeling clammy. Merino is naturally breathable, odour-resistant, and durable, so garments don’t need washing as often and usually last long enough to be handed down before biodegrading naturally. To find out more, see our Merino Wool Guide Blog Post.

Is merino wool better than cotton or synthetics?

All natural fibres, including cotton, are pretty great to wear! Merino wool is naturally warm and it manages moisture with your body to keep you comfortable. For babies still developing thermoregulation, this really sets merino wool apart from other fibres, including cotton which absorbs and holds moisture and isn't an insulating (warm) fibre.

Synthetic fibres have their place but the micro-plastic pollution, lack of biodegradability, odour retention and comfort is scientifically where they fall significantly short against natural fibres and merino wool.

Merino wool is the most versatile fabric, suitable for clothing the tiniest babies to the most seasoned souls in a wide range of changing conditions.

Why is merino wool so great for babies?

Babies are developing the ability to thermoregulate in the first year. Their little bodies are also naturally hotter for a few different reasons. This results in them using more energy to maintain a healthy body temperature and creates a higher risk of getting too hot. Overheating is a well-documented high risk factor of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Merino wool is unique as it keeps babies warm but a comfortable temperature naturally in a few different ways. It's naturally insulating and it manages moisture allowing babies to be warm but comfortable. It also doesn't need washing as often which is always a win for parents! Find out more in our Merino Wool Guide Blog Post.

If you're new to merino wool we recommend...

Merino wool socks are an easy starting point. Soft, durable and warm when they need to be and always comfy. Great for all ages!

Merino wool base layers are an easy layer you'll reach for more as you realise how comfortable they are. They're great for everyday, outdoors and travel for all ages.

Merino wool baby wear is an essential for every baby - whether it's a gift or not! Keep those sweet smelling heads and cute toes cosy but not hot in the early days when they are still developing the ability to thermoregulate.

If you have any other questions, please get in touch! We love talking merino.