We have found that wool is a widely misunderstood material — especially here in the U.S. But we've learned from dressing our own children that wool is the ultimate performance material, perfect for kidswear. Here's why: 

Soft and Cozy

Clothes made of merino wool are exceptionally soft because of the fine wool fibers of merino sheep. 

Breathable 

Merino wool is one of the most breathable fibers, uniquely able to absorb large quantities of moisture vapor, then move it away from the skin to evaporate into the air. 

Warm in winter, cool in summer

Wait, how is that even possible? Wool fibers have a three-dimensional crimp that creates air pockets. These pockets trap warm air near the body, providing insulation in cold weather. Further, because wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp, it helps to keep the body dry and comfortable. Finally, wool absorbs excess body heat when it's warm and releases it when it's cool. This temperature buffering, in addition to wool's breathability, helps maintain a more stable body temperature and prevent overheating.

Environment friendly

Wool is 100% natural, 100% renewable and 100% biodegradable. Wool, by nature, is a circular fiber. And because it biodegrades fully, unlike synthetic fibers, it does not contribute to microplastic pollution.

Durable

Merino wool's natural durability makes it an ideal choice for kids clothing. Wool fibres can bend, flex, and stretch in all directions and still return to their original shape. Our children's wool clothes have withstood multiple seasons and look great despite the wear. And did you know, wool clothes are 300% more likely to be donated compared to garments made from other major fiber types*? 

Hypoallergenic

Merino wool fibers are extremely fine (even finer than human hair), enabling them to bend more than traditional, coarser wool fibers that can be itchy. This makes Merino wool feel soft and luxuriously gentle next to your skin, and suitable children and babies with sensitive skin or eczema. Further, the brands we carry only use non-toxic dyes, so you don't need to worry about harmful chemicals in contact with your child's skin.

Naturally flame resistant

Wool’s inherent chemical structure makes wool naturally flame resistant. This means that wool clothes do not need to be treated with flame retardants, which are harmful chemicals. 

Stain and odor resistant

The lanolin that occurs naturally in merino wool offers a protective outer layer that helps prevent stains from being absorbed. Dirt or food can be simply wiped away or if necessary spot cleaned — so you won't need to wash your wool clothes as often as your other ones! And because Merino wool tends not to generate static, it doesn't attract as much dust and lint as other clothes.

Easy Care

Wool withstands all sorts of messes, but it does need to be occasionally cleaned. Read more about how to care for wool, here.

Ethically produced

While not all wool is ethically produced, here on Bigelow Lane we only carry brands that are committed to ethical animal practices, often receiving certifications from the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) or GOTS, which ensure no harmful chemicals are used, animals are treated well, and land is managed according to best practices. All of our wool is mulesing free.