Top 10 natural benefits of wool
With so many alternatives to wool, including other natural as well as synthetic man-made fibres, you’d be forgiven for thinking that they can all provide the same benefits. At Robert Mackie we’re all about natural fibres, and wool is at the top of our list of natural yarns that we use every day. There are so many natural benefits to using this type of yarn, here’s our top 10:
It’s 100% natural
Wool is a natural protein fibre grown on the backs of more than 68million sheep around the world, 365 days a year. Each sheep consumes a simple combination of water, air, sunshine and grass to thrive and produce its all-weather protection.
“It’s renewable”
Natural fibres are considered renewable, which means that they are capable of regrowing and replacing themselves. Every year sheep produce a new fleece, making wool a 100% renewable source of the fibre.
It’s biodegradable
That’s right, wool decomposes naturally – all natural fibres do – and when it does, it releases important nutrients back into the earth to become part of nature’s carbon cycle once more.
Find out more about why wool is renewable and biodegradable here.
“It’s breathable”
Wool can absorb large amounts of moisture vapour and then allow it to evaporate. This makes wool feel less clingy and far more comfortable to wear.
It’s odour resistant
Since wool has the capability to absorb moisture, it has sweat-wicking properties which in turn mean that there is less sweat on your body. During this process it also locks away the sweat odours which are then released when washed, helping to keep you smelling fresh as a daisy.
“It’s wrinkle resistant”
Each fibre of wool is like a coiled spring that easily returns to its natural shape. This gives wool garments a natural wrinkle resistance.
It’s naturally elsatic
Yes, wool has a natural elasticity which helps wool products stretch with your body, then return back to their original shape.
“It can keep you warm, and cool”
Merino wool reacts to changes in body temperature so it can help you stay warm when it is cold, and keep you cool when it is hot. This makes it a great option all year long and for both summer and winter products.
It’s easy to clean
With advances in technology and cleaning detergent, it’s easier now than ever before to wash wool. Gone are the days when it was dry clean only!
“It’s stain resistant”
As wool’s primary purpose is to protect the body of the sheep, wool fibres have a natural protective outer layer. This barrier helps prevent stains from being absorbed, so when wool encounters dirt, it sits on the surface and is more easily removed when carefully cleaned. (check out our guides to washing wool and for getting stains out)