Did you know that wool is not only a great material to work with but is also flame retardant, renewable, and completely biodegradable? It is especially good for making children’s clothes thanks to its unique properties:
1. Lightweight
Wool contains natural air pockets that make it a powerful insulator. This makes it ideal for children’s clothes, as it helps to regulate their body temperature to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer.
2. Naturally stain-resistant
The outer surface of wool contains lanolin, which is a waxy substance that makes wool naturally stain-resistant. This is another great reason why it is a top choice for children’s clothes.
3. Water-resistant
As already mentioned, wool contains natural air pockets and a layer of lanolin, which combine to make it naturally resistant to rain. It also means it can wick away moisture from the skin, making it ideal for active children who like to take part in outdoor activities. It has even been used in Wales as an alternative to plastic sheets to make walkways across wet areas.
4. Hard-wearing
Wool can stretch to up to 70 percent of its natural length and still snap back into shape. This means that even after years of wearing and washing, it still looks good and fits perfectly. This makes wool a very sustainable clothing choice.
5. Good for the environment
Wool is a biodegradable material and will break down in as little as six months when buried underground. In contrast, synthetic materials can take between 30 and 40 years to biodegrade.
The UK wool industry
Wool spinning and knitting is a historical craft that is firmly rooted in UK culture. The UK is home to many heritage breeds, which produce high-quality wool that is made into artisan products. Stores such as Shop Aran stock traditional Aran jumpers and womens Irish sweaters that are not only warm and look fabulous but will last a lifetime.
All these amazing qualities mean that wool is not only great for children but also a brilliant option for adults.