07/08/2024
Let's talk about wool! Do you know....?
From Wild Earth Yarns - Benefits of Natural Wool
1. It’s natural and renewable
Wool is grown, not manufactured. Sheep grow a fleece every year just from grazing on grass. No fossil fuels are required to grow wool; it actually contains carbon that’s been captured from the atmosphere by the grass eaten by the sheep. Organic carbon is estimated to be half the weight of wool, so woollen products are actually helping to reduce carbon in the atmosphere. Wear wool and be a carbon hero!
2. It’s biodegradable and eco-friendly
Wool is organic, so when it’s buried it decomposes releasing carbon and nitrogen back into the ground, naturally fertilising the soil. It can be used in gardens to suppress weeds and retain moisture while trees and shrubs are getting established. Within a few years the wool will have completely decomposed.
3. It’s breathable
Wool is a breathable fibre that allows the body’s temperature to self-regulate, absorbing and releasing water vapour into the atmosphere. That’s how it can keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. It works for sheep!
4. It’s non-allergenic
Wool doesn’t cause allergies, it actually defends against fungal spores, dust mites and is resistant to mould and mildew. For people with eczema or dermatitis, wearing superfine Merino wool or even Alpaca finer next to the skin produces a microclimate which may be beneficial for treating symptoms. So much for the myth of ‘itchy wool’!
5. It’s fire retardant
Wool fibre has a very high ignition threshold and is flame retardant up to 600 degrees Celsius. Even in a fire wool when ignited produces few toxic fumes, so it’s safer to be surrounded by woollen products in your home and wear woollen garments. Get fired up about wool!