The Benefits of Wool

Sustainability.

Wool is a naturally renewable fibre – what could be more natural than wool? Each year sheep produce a fleece, which makes wool a natural and renewable resource. As yet, no one has been able to reproduce the properties of wool synthetically.

The Benefits of Wool

Eco Friendly.

Eco-friendly – when it’s ‘out with the old’ wool will naturally bio-degrade. It is a totally natural product, entirely renewable and sustainable. And it is 100% biodegradable – a very important feature in a world that is increasingly concerned about the environment. The benefits of wool include reducing your carbon footprint.

The Benefits of Wool

Durability.

Wool resists wrinkles – wool is like a spring; it has a natural crimp that allows it to return to its natural shape even after being stretched by up to 30%. Its complex coiled structure gives it great resilience against becoming flat and hard, so you can count on wool to keep its shape.

The Benefits of Wool

Anti-static.

Wool is naturally anti-static – wool generates very little static electricity because of the qualities of its natural fibres. Static attracts lint, dirt and dust, so its anti-static properties keep it much cleaner for longer.

The Benefits of Wool

Flame Retardant.

Wool is naturally flame resistant – wool is difficult to ignite, has low flame spread and heat release properties; it does not melt and has superior self-extinguishing qualities.

The Benefits of Wool

Temperature Regulating.

Wool has balanced thermal insulation properties – meaning it is warm in winter and cool in the summer.

The Benefits of Wool

Hypoallergenic and Antimicrobial.

Wool is hypoallergenic – it is resistant to bacteria, mould and mildew that can trigger allergic reactions in many people. Dust mites don’t like wool because they need moisture to survive. Wool has microscopic pores that respond effectively to changes in humidity making it unfavourable for the growth and breeding of the house dust mite. Dust mite allergens are one of the triggers for asthma attacks.

The Benefits of Wool

Air Purifying.

Wool absorbs harmful pollutants – not only does wool absorb many harmful pollutants from the air, it does not re-emit them. It’s estimated that wool used in interiors can help purify the air for 30 years.

The Benefits of Wool

Water Repellent.

Whilst the core of the Merino fibre is capable of absorbing up to a third of its dry weight in moisture, the surface of Merino fibres has a waxy coating that repels liquids. This surface layer is not easily removed by washing or processing. Water droplets on the surface of Merino will bead and roll off instead of being absorbed into the fabric.

The Benefits of Wool

Odour Reducing.

Merino wool reduces the opportunity for odours to develop because it quickly absorbs perspiration and evaporates it into the air. Unlike synthetic fabrics, wool does not retain odours and will freshen just from airing out. In addition, the outer layer of wool fibres has a high concentration of fatty acids, which have anti-bacterial properties. The internal layers of wool fibre actually bind with acidic, basic and sulphurous odours.

The Benefits of Wool

Animal Friendly.

Buying wool supports raising sheep for their fleece rather than food. Every year a new fleece grows on the sheep’s back and may be removed without harm to the animal. Hainsworth has understood the benefits of wool in high quality fabric production for more than 225 years.