For many of us, wool is a staple in our fall and winter wardrobes. But have you ever wondered why? What makes wool so ideal for colder days? If you want to learn about the unique properties of wool and why it's worth investing in, read on!
Where do the advantages of wool clothing come from?
Wool is a natural fiber obtained from the fur of animals, primarily sheep, but also rabbits and goats. It's precisely this origin that gives wool its unique properties – thanks to it, sheep are resistant to both low and high temperatures. And thanks to clothing made from woolen materials, we can be too! It's thanks to wool that sheep and some goat species can easily survive in various weather conditions. The thermoregulatory properties of this fiber mean we can wear clothing made from it year-round, not just in autumn and winter. However, the fact that it can maintain body temperature makes it especially popular during the colder months of the year.
Types of wool
Depending on the animal from which the wool is obtained, there are several types. These are:
- Cashmere – wool obtained from Cashmere goats, which have two layers of fur. Cashmere is obtained from the inner layer, known as the undercoat. It has excellent warming properties and is very pleasant to the touch.
- Angora – obtained from the fur of long-haired Angora rabbits. Exceptionally velvety and distinctive to the touch, it is typically used as a blend in clothing made from sheep's wool.
- Mohair – wool from Angora goats, soft and delicately lustrous. Hats and sweaters made from it are distinctive for their fluffiness.
- Merino wool comes from merino sheep raised in the New Zealand Alps. Its thin, delicate fibers are characterized by excellent breathability and the ability to wick moisture away from the skin. This is why merino wool is used in the production of thermal underwear.
- Alpaca – wool obtained from alpaca hair. Due to its low lanolin content, it is non-allergenic, and its fibers are more durable than traditional sheep wool.
You can learn more about individual types of wool in the article " Wool varieties - characteristics "
Wool – a material worth having in your wardrobe
Wool won't keep you cold, and that doesn't mean you have to reach for the thickest sweaters or hats to stay warm. Cashmere and merino wool are good examples of this – their thin and delicate fibers mean that clothes made from them aren't overly thick, yet they still have excellent thermal properties. Importantly, wool not only helps keep you warm but also allows your skin to breathe and absorbs moisture. This means you won't overheat or sweat in wool.
💡 If you have an itchy wool sweater, wear an invisible t-shirt or bodysuit underneath. Our Invisible collection is made of breathable micromodal , which perfectly complements the thermoregulatory properties of wool.
Wool – an easy-to-maintain fabric
The good news is that wool fabric is very hygienic. Dirt doesn't easily absorb into it, so a quick reaction (e.g., if you spill something on yourself) is often enough to prevent a stain. Furthermore, wool doesn't absorb dust, so you don't need to wash it as often as other materials. To freshen it up, simply air it thoroughly or use a garment steamer. Wash it only when it's really dirty or saturated with unpleasant odors. However, this won't happen too quickly, as wool is breathable, so it doesn't retain odors from the environment – including sweat. The fact that wool clothing doesn't require frequent washing makes it an eco-friendly material, which makes us love it even more!
Are wool fabrics durable?
Wool is not prone to wrinkling, so it usually doesn't need to be ironed. Simply hang your clothes (a wide hanger will be useful for this) to straighten them out, and if the creases are more severe, use a steamer. If you care for your wool properly, it will last a long time in your wardrobe. By that, I mean a really long time – at least 4-5 years! To ensure this, follow the recommendations on the inside labels and try not to wear the same item continuously. After a whole day in wool pants or a skirt, give them a rest for another day – then they will retain their perfect appearance. This time is necessary for the fibers to regain their shape. Their elasticity makes them resistant to deformation, but constant use will eventually lose this characteristic.
Wool sweaters and trousers are significantly more expensive than those made from synthetic fibers, but, as you now know, for good reason. The properties of wool cannot be replicated by producing synthetic fibers, and its durability means woolen clothes will last a long time and provide comfort – that's why they're worth the investment!
Miss Merino Navy Long-Sleeve Polo Shirt
Olga
