Wool in essence, provides insulation, air conditioning, moisture-proofing, fire protection and warmth. All in one fiber

Wool 101:

Fact 1:

Wool breathes. Air passes naturallly through the fibers, preventing a build up of moisture.

Fact 2:

Wool insulates. It traps enough air to build up a warm insulating layer. This same insulating layer also can work to keep you cool. For example, Bedouins in the Sahara wear flowing woolen robes to keep cool.

Fact 3:

Wool is a natural fire retardant. This is a great advantage for bedding. Woolen mattresses and blankets will not catch fire as easily as some synthetics. Synthetics usually have to be treated with fire retardants such as PBDE's to pass fire safety standards. PBDE's have been banned in Europe because they might be carcinogenic.

Wool however, is a naturally flame resistant material. For example, back in the day, car racers and fire men wore wool padding in their suits to provide fire insulation.

Fact 4:

Wool is inherently mould and dust mite resistant. This is especially important for bedding. Mould and dust mites are huge triggers for asthma. This makes wool a healthy bedding option, especially for asthmatics.

Fact 5:

Wool is hypo-allergenic. Most people have no allergies to wool. A very small percentage of the population have lanolin allergy. However, usually people with wool allergies are actually reacting to the chemicals used to process wool. So organic wool is good for chemically sensitive skin.

Fact 6:

Wool is a renewable resource. The wool is cut and grows again. In one year.

Fact 7:

Wool is a hygroscopic insulator. This means wool can absorb moisture without feeling wet or clammy. It also means that even if wool does get wet, it still keeps you warm.

In fact, wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in water before it starts to feel wet. Wool's natural insulation properties means that even when wet it retains air, and stays warm.