Why Merino?
A Bit About Merino
The merino sheep can be traced to 12th century Spain where, the worth of its soft fleece was recognized. The special qualities of the fleece led the Spanish to ban the export of the merino sheep so as to monopolise the fleece, and its production. However, something as good as the merino sheep couldn’t be contained.
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Unlike regular coarse-woolled sheep, who graze in the flat lowlands, the merino sheep have evolved to survive both the scorching summers and freezing winters of New Zealand’s rugged Southern Alps as well as outback Australia.
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Merino wool is composed of a natural protein that is biodegradable, similar to the protein found in human hair. When disposed of, merino wool decomposes in soil in a matter of years, slowly releasing valuable nitrogen-based nutrients back into the earth, acting like a fertiliser. In contrast, synthetic fibres can be extremely slow to degrade.
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Merino sheep do not need shelter in the rain because the lanolin, their natural oils, help shed water. A merino sheep can produce up to 227 lbs of wool in its lifetime. Merino wool fibre can draw in up to 30% of its own weight in moisture while staying dry to the touch. This effect otherwise known as wicking pulls 10 times more moisture (and sweat) away from the skin than a synthetic fibre, while maintaining all of its performance qualities.
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Nice and Soft
Fine merino is 19.5 microns in comparison to some wool fibres can be 25 microns. When the merino fibre touches the skin it bends over, so it feels incredibly soft and gentle against baby’s skin. Non-irritating to even sensitive skin, it is especially good for babies who suffer from eczema or allergies.
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Temperature Regulating
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Babies can't regulate their temperature when they're first born. Merino's fine air pockets help create a microclimate around a child’s body. Merino wool retains the heat a child creates which is beneficial for warmth and insulation. It can also release this heat into the air when needed so the child doesn’t overheat. Merino keeps babies or toddlers warm when it’s cold, and cool when it’s hot.
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Fire Resistant
Unlike other fibres used to make garments, Wool is naturally flame resistant, wool does not require chemicals, like fire retardant. This can give parents confidence that their baby is wearing a natural and safe fibre.