Sleep Like a Lamb

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Valued for its natural moisture wicking and air flow properties, wool bedding was once the norm. But since the advent of synthetics, many Americans have had the wool pulled over their eyes. Most people suffer from two big misconceptions about wool: that it’s itchy and it’s too hot. Because of these commonly held myths, many have yet to discover the benefits of this versatile fiber.

Wool’s itchy reputation is a direct result of ­something all of us have experienced—sweaters made of coarse wool fibers that have been dried out by bleaching and dyeing. The surprise is that many wool fibers are really quite soft, especially when they’re not chemically treated.

Many people are also surprised to learn that wool keeps sleepers cool as well as warm. Coil-like wool fibers contain millions of tiny air pockets that trap heat, providing excellent insulation for the body. Those air pockets also allow for easy evaporation of moisture, and it’s believed that evaporative cooling is what makes wool a pleasant fiber even in warm weather.

Why wool?

A few other characteristics make wool ideal for bedding. First and foremost, it wicks moisture away from the body better than any other material, manufactured or natural, says Chris Lupton, Ph.D., a wool and mohair fiber expert at Texas A&M Research Center at San Angelo. In fact, wool can absorb up to 30 percent of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet—more than ten times what synthetics or feathers can handle.

The issue of moisture is paramount in bedding because damp areas are a breeding ground for allergy-causing mold, mildew, and dust mites. Wool allows moisture to evaporate easily, and it stays drier than other types of bedding so it dis­courages humidity-loving dust mites. Plus, it’s naturally mildew and mold resistant.

Furthermore, wool fibers are naturally resilient and won’t clump. With respect to bedding, this equates to excellent body cushioning and long-lasting products. Though wool is usually more expensive than bedding made of synthetics or other natural materials, it can last at least ten years and often much longer. Conscientious consumers can rest easy knowing they’re sleeping under a natural fiber that’s sustainable, renewable, and biodegradable.

Caring for Woolies

• Although wool allows for easy evaporation of moisture, wool bedding benefits from habitual airings and cleanings:
• Pull back wool comforters each morning to let surface areas breathe.
• Once a month, expose the bedding to direct sunlight and air to freshen, remove excess moisture, and bleach out yellowing caused by perspiration.
• Read the manufacturer’s instructions before trying any cleaning method.
• Though machine washing and dry cleaning are not recommended, you may hand wash wool bedding using an up-and-down motion in a washing machine, says St. Peter Woolen Mill’s Patricia Johnson. To keep the integrity of wool products, choose an all-natural, biodegradable soap. After washing, put the items though the spin cycle twice to remove all soap, then hang or lie the bedding flat to dry.
• Never put wool in the dryer with a heat setting on. However, it should be safe to use the dryer’s “cold” or “air” settings for ten to twenty minutes. Toss in a tennis ball to help refluff the fibers, and check progress every five minutes.
• For stain removal, use nontoxic spot cleaners, or try a solution of one part white vinegar and three parts distilled water.