Pure wool
Wool is a 100% animal product so use and buy wool products from ethical woolgrower who treat animals with care. Or opt for second-hand wool clothing.
Pros
Warms and cools as needed
Wool fibers can trap and release large amounts of water and air. In winter, the wool retains heat – in summer, it retains moisture. This enables it to maintain an optimal microclimate against the skin.
Quick-drying and odor-inhibiting
Airflow is the key. Wool keeps the skin drier and inhibits bacterial growth.
Durable and dirt-repellent
Scales on the wool fiber surface repel dirt.
100% biodegradable
Raw wool in gardening releases nutritious and important fertilizers. It can be used in raised beds or as mulch where it is also an excellent, purely natural slug deterrent.
Fire-resistant
Wool burns poorly, smells like burnt hair, and — unlike synthetics — should neither melt nor drip.
Lanolin
Lanolin is a waxy paste secreted by wool-bearing animals. In fact, that’s how a sheep stays dry. Used as a lip balm or hand cream, it protects against harsh weather and moisture loss and even accelerates wound healing.
Cons
Itchy
Thicker wool fibers can be itchy. Woolen clothing worn next to the skin should be of fine quality – thicker fibers are suitable for outerwear.
Moths
To prevent moths, store wool clothing in cotton bags or old pillowcases together with lavender or cedarwood. In case of moth infestation freeze clothing at -18°C for at least 24 hours.
Shrinking with heat and weakens when wet
Exposure to heat and water causes the fibers to shorten and thicken, leading to the garment shrinking and felting. Always opt for cold or lukewarm water to minimize thermal shock and protein denaturation.
Be gentle
Like human hair, wool consists primarily of keratin. This protein fiber is both water-attracting and water-repellent. Its waxy lanolin coating acts as a water-repellent shield, making wool resistant to stains and light rain.
Wash wool as little as possible
It is best to let the wool air out outdoors overnight or hang it up in the bathroom while showering so it gets gently steamed.
Give it some rest
Let wool rest for at least a day after wearing so it can recover and return to its original shape.
When a wash is needed
Always use cold or lukewarm water to minimize thermal shock. Dry wool garments flat and away from heat sources so they retain their shape.
Lanolin bath
Wool loses its protective layer of lanolin through use, washing, and friction. A lanolin bath can restore the natural protective function of old and worn-out wool clothing. A spa treatment for the wool!