Why is wool perfect for your little one?

Wool is a natural material that breathes, absorbs up to 30% of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet and regulates body temperature: warm in winter, cool in summer. For children that is extra valuable, because they sweat more quickly and can only regulate their temperature properly from the age of seven. Wool is also naturally odour-resistant, biodegradable and lasts for years.

Wool has been a valued textile material for thousands of years, and recent research has brought its benefits for children back into the spotlight. This 100% natural material, sourced from sheep, is not only breathable and comfortable, but also offers thermoregulating properties that are essential for your little one's wellbeing. Below we share the many benefits of wool and why it is a must-have in your child's wardrobe.

Fun fact: babies and young children can only regulate their body temperature properly from the age of seven. Until then, wool helps to support their still unstable temperature regulation. Did you know that babies and children use more energy than adults to stay warm? Thanks to the insulating effect of wool, they can use that energy for growth.

What are the benefits of wool?

1. Natural and breathable

Wool is one of the most breathable textile materials there is. Research from the Textile Research Journal shows that wool can absorb up to 30% of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet. That makes wool particularly suitable for children, who often sweat more quickly and experience more changes in temperature. The breathable properties also help to regulate body temperature, which is essential for a good night's sleep.

2. Thermal properties

A study in the Journal of Thermal Biology shows that wool regulates body temperature effectively. It retains heat in cold conditions and wicks away excess heat and moisture when it is warmer. So an Alwero Wool Sleeping Bag Long Sleeve not only offers warmth in winter, but also stays comfortable in summer. That makes wool a versatile choice for every season.

3. Sustainable and good for the environment

Wool is not only durable, but also biodegradable. Research from Australian Wool Innovation shows that the ecological footprint of wool is considerably lower than that of synthetic fibres. Wool also requires less energy to produce than synthetic materials. That makes it an environmentally friendly choice for parents who want to buy sustainable products.

4. Odour-resistant

Wool has naturally odour-resistant properties. A study by the University of Leeds shows that wool fibres retain fewer of the bacteria responsible for odour. Wool products such as the Alwero Wool Ballerina Slippers and the Alwero Wool Sleeping Bag therefore stay fresh, even after several nights of use. An important benefit for parents who put hygiene and comfort first.

5. Comfort and softness

The soft fibres of wool are comfortable on the skin and prevent irritation. That is particularly important for children with sensitive skin. Research from the Swedish School of Textiles confirms that merino wool, a premium type of wool, is exceptionally soft and breathable and therefore perfect for baby and children's products.

Fun fact: babies who sleep on a sheepskin or lambskin for the first three months are less likely to develop asthma later on.

What is wool good for with children?

Wool sleeping bags

Wool has excellent thermoregulating properties, which makes it a perfect choice for sleeping bags. The Alwero Wool Sleeping Bag Long Sleeve shows how wool contributes to a good night's sleep: the sleeping bag offers the necessary warmth without your little one getting too hot. Thanks to its breathable properties, it stays comfortable, even on warmer nights.

Durability and long-term use

Wool is naturally resistant to mould and bacteria and therefore takes longer to start smelling or wearing out. Wool products such as the Alwero Hot Water Bottle Cover Thumbled 100% Wool are not only functional, but also last for years. That makes them a cost-effective choice for parents.

Breathability

Choose products that are specially designed to be breathable. This is crucial for your little one's comfort, especially during active playtime. The Binibamba Buggy Snuggler Sheepskin is a good example of a breathable product that keeps your little one warm without overheating.

A few wool products from our shop:

Fun fact: wool with enough lanolin supports the body's self-healing ability when there are complaints.

Is wool also suitable for summer?

Wool is often associated with winter, but it is also an excellent material for summer. Many people don't know the benefits of wool in the warmer months, while those are exactly what count for active children who want to stay comfortable during their games and adventures. One of the most remarkable properties of wool is its moisture regulation.

Wool can absorb up to 30% of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet. That helps to regulate body temperature, so you stay cool, even on warm days. For children who play outside a lot this is particularly useful: wool makes sure they feel at ease, even while running and playing in the sun.

Wool also offers protection against UV radiation. The fibres can block part of the harmful rays of the sun, so the skin is better protected during summer activities. That makes wool a good choice for lightweight clothing too, such as the Alwero Wool Bodywarmer, perfect for cooler summer evenings or as an extra layer during a picnic.

Merino wool, a lighter type of wool, is exceptionally soft and breathable and helps to prevent skin irritation. That is crucial for children with sensitive skin. Merino wool is ideal for products such as the Hvid Wool Blanket Gust 70 x 95 cm, which is not only suitable for bedtime, but also for a picnic in the park or as a blanket in the pram. That versatility makes merino wool a must-have for summer.

Also for summer:

What to look for when buying wool products?

When choosing wool products for your children, there are several factors to consider:

• Choose high-quality wool, such as merino wool. It is softer and more comfortable on the skin than ordinary wool. Brands such as Alwero, Binibamba and Hvid are known for quality products that last a long time and offer comfort.
• Mind the care. Wool can be prone to shrinking and losing its shape. Check the washing instructions on the label: many wool products can be washed by hand or at a low temperature in the washing machine. Dry them flat to keep their shape and extend their lifespan.
• Choose breathable clothing, especially for active playtime. The Binibamba Buggy Snuggler Sheepskin keeps your little one warm without overheating.
• Mind the fit. Make sure the clothing fits well and offers enough freedom of movement. Avoid clothing that is too tight and could cause discomfort.

What is the downside of wool?

The only downside of wool is that it is slightly more expensive than clothing made from synthetic fabrics. We at Kideo.store believe it is completely worth it, given the many benefits wool offers for your little one's comfort and health.

Linen as an alternative for summer

Besides wool, linen is an excellent alternative for summer. Linen is a natural fabric known for its breathable and moisture-absorbing properties. It is light, strong and quick-drying, ideal for hot summer days. Like wool, linen is biodegradable and hypoallergenic, making it a safe and sustainable choice for your little one's sensitive skin.

At Kideo.store we select our products with great care and love, so that we can offer your little one the very best. We stand for natural products that ensure your child comes into contact with as few toxic substances as possible. Discover our extensive range of high-quality wool products and experience for yourself why so many parents make this conscious choice.

Summary

• Wool breathes, absorbs up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet and regulates body temperature in winter and summer.
• Children can only regulate their temperature properly from the age of seven; wool supports them in this.
• Wool is naturally odour-resistant, resistant to mould and bacteria, biodegradable and lasts for years.
• Choose merino wool for sensitive skin, wash according to the label and dry wool flat.
• The only downside is that wool is slightly more expensive than synthetics; linen is a good summer alternative.

Frequently asked questions

Isn't wool too warm for summer?

No. Wool wicks away excess heat and moisture and absorbs up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet. That keeps your child cool, even on warm days. Merino wool is the lightest and softest type.

How do you wash children's wool clothing?

Check the label. Many wool products can be washed by hand or at a low temperature in the washing machine. Always dry them flat, so they don't shrink or lose their shape.

Which wool is the softest for sensitive skin?

Merino wool. It is exceptionally soft and breathable and helps to prevent skin irritation.