Worldwide Campaign for Wool

June has seen the launch of the Campaign for Wool.  Just to remind people of the unique qualities of wool, and why even though it may be appear to be more expensive to buy, it really isn't in the long run, compared to the cheaper synthetics.  Wool lasts for years if looked after.

Its qualities:

Natural and Renewable - the world's most sustainable fibre as the sheep just grows another fleece each year.   Sheep don't die when  shorn.
Biodegradable too.  "The Boss" lost a work jersey which contained a percentage of nylon  (commercial ones usually do) and when I happened to come across it about 18 months to 2 years later, all that was left was the nylon.

UV protective - does filter some of those UV rays

Less Flammable - tends to smoulder if it does burn, but doesn't melt onto the skin.  When it does burn it releases fewer toxic fumes.  Children's dressing gowns used to be woollen for a good reason around all those open fires and heaters.

Breathable - because it absorbs and releases water vapour it is warm in winter, but cooler in summer (the old shepherds and farmers wore the same old shirt all year round, often just adding an extra woollen singlet underneath and a woollen jersy outerlayer in winter).  Modern spinning techniques have managed to get rid of the scratchiness of the wool now, so you can wear that wool right next to the skin and not be driven mad.

Water repellant - think the original Swanndri Bush Shirts! but when garments do get wet they tend to generate heat due to the fibre structure.

Less allergenic - doesn't promote bacteria growth

Durable and elastic - garments don't stretch as much, but you can machine wash woollen garments if you use the right temperature water and machine cycle.

Because of the fibre structure wool sheds slightly so carpets don't need steam cleaning, regular vacuuming is enough.

Bedding - best fibre to sleep under as it reduces humidity next to the skin, and keeps body temperature even,  natural down/feather does do the same, and is lighter.

Anyway here endeth the sermon, but I just love wool.