Mainly made from Saxon merino wool. Merino wool: what is it, properties, what is it made from? Various merino wool

Healthy sleep – the key to quality rest, a vigorous awakening and excellent well-being throughout the day. But in order for a person to get a good night’s sleep, several factors must “come together”: the comfort of the mattress, the most comfortable height and softness of the pillow and, of course, a well-chosen blanket that warms in the cold and refreshes in the heat. Do you think that the combination of these properties in one product is impossible? However, there are such universal blankets. They are made from merino wool.

Who are Merinos?

Merinos are a very special, elite breed of sheep. It is believed that it was bred in Spain in the 12th century, however, after they were brought to Australia in the 18th century, sheep began to be bred almost exclusively there. The reason was the special Australian climate, favorable for these animals. Merino sheep differ from ordinary sheep in their small size; they are not kept for food. The main trump card of these cute creatures is luxurious wool, from which items of amazing quality are obtained.

This is due to the fact that merino wool fibers are very light, weightless, thin, but at the same time they are durable and have a high density.

Product Features and Benefits

Merino sheep wool contains a unique component - lanolin. When the blanket heats up under the influence of body temperature, microscopic particles of this substance penetrate the skin, and then into the human blood and contribute to the healing of the body. That is why blankets made from this material are recommended for people suffering from joint diseases, a tendency to swelling, and problems with the circulatory system. They are also good for athletes, as they help cope with excessive muscle tension and relieve pain. One of the wonderful properties of such a blanket that women will like is the fight against “orange peel” and skin rejuvenation.

However, merino wool is famous not only for its healing qualities. Blankets made from it have whole line advantages:

Temperature stabilization. Due to the fact that wool fibers perfectly allow air to pass through and do not interfere with its circulation, exactly the temperature that is required under the blanket is created. this moment time: comfortable coolness in summer and warmth in winter.
Merino wool– very hygroscopic material. A blanket made from it is able to absorb and evaporate moisture (up to 30% of its own weight), while remaining dry and comfortable.
These products “breathe”. Air circulates easily among the fibers. This property, as well as the ability of lanolin to neutralize harmful substances, allows the wool blanket to maintain its original freshness and not absorb foreign odors.
Fire safety. The fact is that wool fibers store a small amount of moisture inside. In addition, each hair has an outer stratum corneum. Therefore, for a product made from such a material to ignite, more heat than for other natural fibers.
Products made from merino wool are not subject to static electricity and are not “dust collectors” and do not cause allergic reactions, which is why they are recommended even for newborn babies.
Self-cleaning ability. Free circulation of oxygen helps such blankets to always be clean. Dead particles of the epidermis and other “pollutants” do not settle on them.

Varieties

Merino wool blankets are divided into two categories:

By mass and density of fiber plexus they are divided into light ones, in which this same density does not exceed 150 grams per m2 - they are intended for use in warm time of the year; lightweight, with a weaving density of up to 300 grams per m2, recommended for all seasons and especially good for warming in ventilated rooms with high humidity air; and, finally, to standard ones, which have the tightest knitting (up to 400 grams per m2) and provide excellent warmth in the most severe cold.
By appearance wool blankets are divided into blankets with filling, when the wool is inside a cover made of cotton or satin fabric - this is the most common type, they fit perfectly into any interior design, last a long time and have a relatively low cost; products with one open wool side, when the other can be satin or synthetic; and completely woolen, the most expensive, beautiful and comfortable.

How to choose?

A merino wool blanket is not a cheap pleasure. Therefore, his choice must be approached responsibly, with knowledge of the matter. What factors should you consider when purchasing it:

Fluctuations in indoor temperature depending on the season and weather.
Features of your own body: whether you are “freezing” or like it when it’s cooler.
Do you like thick or thin blankets?
Do you sleep alone or together?
Do you prefer the product with a case or not?

You should also pay attention to the following product features:

How the blanket is sewn. There are 3 types of tailoring: parallel quilted, stitched with “squares” or the so-called karostep - patterned stitching. It is preferable to choose the 2nd or 3rd types.
What is the case made of?(if there is one). It is recommended to opt for calico, satin or jacquard fabric. They are natural, breathable, quite durable, last a very long time, and are pleasant to the body.
Information on the label. The following must be indicated: the manufacturing company, in which country it was produced, care recommendations, materials for making the cover and filler. The completely natural “filling” is accompanied by the NOMITE mark.
Presence or absence of odor. It is worth paying attention to whether there is an admixture of “chemistry” in the aroma. It shouldn't exist.
Workmanship. Good manufacturing companies carefully monitor the performance of their products and exclude defective goods with protruding threads and crooked stitching.
Intelligence, located on all labels and tags of the product must be completely identical.

How to care?

So you've chosen the right merino wool blanket. However, like all products made from natural materials, it needs special care. Let's take a look at the basic rules:

How best to deal with pollution: wash or clean. In principle, merino wool blankets can be washed unless otherwise stated on the information label. The presence or absence of a cover does not matter. There are a number of manufacturing companies that do not allow their products to be washed. If you purchased a blanket with a wash label on it, take it to the dry cleaner and be sure to notify the staff that it contains natural wool merino

If the stain is small, try removing it yourself. Wet it slightly with soap and water, rub gently, remove any remaining detergent and dry it thoroughly, flattened. Shake the blanket several times.

Washing a wool blanket is only allowed by hand, in water with a temperature of up to 30 degrees Celsius. Use washing powder specially designed for wool products. Rinsing the blanket is done in the same water, neither cold nor hot. Do not twist or squeeze.

How to dry properly. Drying a merino blanket should be done on horizontal surface. It is carefully straightened and placed on a cotton fabric, for example, on a large towel or sheet. When drying the blanket, turn it over and shake it from time to time. Don't put it near heating elements or under the sun's rays.

Any blankets and blankets made of wool, not only sheep’s, should be hung out for airing a couple of times a year. The best option is to take the product outside, hang it in a shaded place and shake it a little to better fluff the fibers and saturate them with oxygen.

How to store it correctly. Storing a merino wool blanket should be done by folding it into a canvas or cotton bag and then storing it in a closet or linen box. It is recommended to place a moth repellent near the product.

When the blanket is taken out again for use, it needs to be straightened, spread out and left for a day or two so that it straightens, fluffs up and again delights you with comfortable warmth. Folds can be ironed through slightly wet gauze.

Since ancient times, the word wool has symbolized warmth, care and softness. Thanks to its high spinning properties, wool received widest distribution in various areas of the textile industry. Wool yarn is similar in structure to human hair, so it is very comfortable when in contact with the skin. Wool is a collective concept that includes the wool of a sheep, goat, camel, llama, rabbit and even dog. The wool of different animals differs in properties and scope of application.

Merino wool is wool sheared from the withers of a Merino sheep. Merinos (Spanish: merino (singular) and los merinos (plural)) are a breed of sheep with uniform, fine wool. It is believed that the Merino breed originated from Spain, where for many centuries breeders bred hard work to improve wool quality. In XII - 16th centuries Thanks to the quality of the wool of the sheep raised, the Spaniards had a monopoly on the wool market. Until the 17th century, exporting merino sheep from Spain was considered a crime and was punishable by death penalty. At the end of the 18th century, the first Spanish merino sheep were transported to Australia and New Zealand. Centuries later, the number of Merinos in Australia has reached a record high: there are now 70,000 sheep farmers raising about 155 million sheep.

Australia's climatic conditions are unique. The presence of desert and semi-desert, marine and Mediterranean climates make this country an unusual climatic zone, which undoubtedly affects the quality of sheep wool. Australians are literally obsessed with sheep. Merinos are national pride, the main source of income in the economy and favorite hobby. The most popular sport in Australia is sheep shearing.

Merino sheep are real champions in terms of the amount of wool produced. One sheep produces up to 15 kg of wool fibers per year, which is equal to a thread 8 thousand kilometers long. Sheep of other breeds grow no more than 6-7 kg of fleece per year. The main advantage of merino wool is not in quantity, but in the quality of wool, which is distinguished by the highest consumer indicators. The thickness of the fibers of fine-fleece merino wool is only 14.5-23 microns, which thinner than a hair human twice (40 microns). For a coarse-wool sheep, this parameter is 25-35 microns. A tiny difference of thousandths of a millimeter makes great value. Firstly, white, soft, thin and elastic merino wool cannot be confused with anything else; even a non-specialist can distinguish it. Secondly, with a thickness of more than 23 microns, wool yarn already begins to itch and can cause an allergic reaction.

To make yarn, merino wool is sheared only from the withers area. It is at the withers that sheep have special fine-fleece wool less than 23 microns thick. In addition, merino wool stands out among other types of wool due to its extraordinary elasticity. Merinos have natural curls on their withers and belly, so the elasticity of the yarn is created precisely because of the way the wool grows. Merino yarn, made from sheep's wool, is very thin and surprisingly durable. In addition, it is elegant, almost weightless and unusually warm. It is the lightness and strength of merino wool that allows it to be made into comfortable and sophisticated products.

The best lots of unwashed Merino wool are offered annually at the Australian Golden Bale auction. Famous textile brands and fashion houses participating in the auction are ready to pay any money for successful lots. In 2002, a record 110 kilogram bale of merino wool was sold for $460 thousand. Currently, 15% of Merino wool in Australia is produced "under the roof", using new European technology, which allows us to obtain wool of exclusive quality. Merinos are kept indoors, in special blankets, they are fed only prepared food and are closely monitored. Naturally, the cost of such wool is much higher than from sheep that graze freely, but extra-class merino wool is sold on the world market for $20-30 per 1 kg and more.

Types of Merino wool

Merino wool marked Strong from fibers with a thickness of 20-22.5 microns. This type of fiber accounts for approximately 80% of the world's merino wool production. Mostly like this
Wool is used to make yarn for machine knitting. Sometimes, during the process of degeneration of the herd, the thickness of the sheep's wool fibers can increase and reach 28-30 microns. A situation arises when wool is considered merino not according to the main indicators, but only according to the type of animal from which it was obtained. This wool is used to produce inexpensive yarn for hand knitting.

The following types of merino wool are rarely used for making hand knitting yarn due to their very high cost. But such skeins can be found in small batches produced by the world's leading manufacturers.

Merino wool has a medium diameter, designated Medium. The thickness of wool fibers is 18-20 microns. The share of world production of this type of yarn is about 15%.

Fine wool marked Fine. The thickness of the fibers is 16-17 microns. The share of world production of this type of yarn among others is 5-7%.

Very fine wool, designated SuperFine. The fiber thickness is 14-15.5 microns. The global share of production of this merino wool is extremely small - sometimes up to 0.1%. Very thin, light and fluffy merino wool is used exclusively for the manufacture of expensive fabrics and knitwear. It is this subspecies of unwashed wool that is put up at the “Golden Bale” auction, during which the best batch in terms of color, softness and many other indicators is determined, designated by the same name “Golden Bale”. Even in the most favorable years, the weight of such a batch is no more than several hundred kilograms.

Ultrafine wool labeled Extrafine. The fiber thickness is 11.5-15 microns. This is the rarest and most expensive type of merino wool. The number of such sheep is small and to prevent the highly valuable fiber from becoming tangled and rough, in windy and rainy weather the animals walk around the pasture in special raincoats - capes. Extra-fine merino wool is suitable for blending with other expensive yarns such as cashmere or silk. New Zealand produces exclusive lightweight knitwear, which is created by mixing merino wool and possum fur.

The thickness of the wool does not affect its noble properties: the highest quality fleece is inherent in all types of Merino sheep. It is not for nothing that the twenty-first century is called the era of scientific and technological progress. In the textile industry, synthetics with a clearly defined set of qualities and properties are actively replacing natural materials. But even the most advanced technologies cannot give artificial fabrics the unique characteristics of natural merino wool. People have learned to clone sheep, but not merino wool, the wonderful properties of which cannot be replaced by any existing material.

The magical properties of merino wool

Excellent moisture absorption. It's no secret that when the temperature rises environment or a cold, a person begins to sweat. Thus, his body gives up excess moisture and tends to cool down. Merino wool is hygroscopic, that is, it can absorb up to 33% of its own weight in moisture. Wool heats up to the temperature of the human body and easily absorbs water accumulated between the bends of the fibers, which relieves a person from unpleasant sensation- contact with wet material. Pillows, blankets, mattresses and any other products made from merino wool always remain dry.

Excellent thermal insulation. The finest crimped merino wool fibers are considered ideal thermal insulation material. Scientists have calculated that per centimeter of merino wool there are up to 40 small waves, which form unique air cushions between themselves that prevent either cold or heat from reaching the body. That is why the world's leading manufacturers of sleep and leisure products often use merino wool as a filler.

Excellent calming effect. Modern man lives in constant tension and surrounded by endless irritants and stress. Merino wool contains lanolin, which softens and soothes the skin. Lanolin is actively used in cosmetology, including for the production of safe softening creams for breastfeeding mothers. Products made from soft merino wool lull you to sleep better than any sleeping pill. In addition, due to its exceptional delicacy and softness, merino wool will never scratch the skin.

Reliable protection against unpleasant odors. Nowadays, this property has become decisive for the use of merino wool in the production of sleeping textiles. High-quality and well-washed merino wool has no foreign odors. The substance creatine present in the fibers naturally destroys bacteria that live on human skin and cause unpleasant odors.

Unique self-cleaning effect. The core of each merino wool fiber consists of two types of cells with different moisture absorption properties. At high humidity air, some cells fill with water and swell, others simply change their size, which creates friction between the fibers. Therefore, products made from merino wool require virtually no cleaning. From time to time they just need to be ventilated in humid weather.

Antibacterial properties. Creatine, which is contained in merino wool, is an unfavorable environment for the development of bacteria and microscopic insects. In addition, a water repellent is formed on the surface of each fiber, repelling insect pests.

Electrostatic properties. Merino wool reduces positive ionization on the human body. Positive ions have a very depressing effect on a person and open the way for many diseases and ailments, and wool helps even at the source of the problem.

Neutralization of toxic substances. More than a century ago, the famous researcher of the properties of wool, Professor Yeager, found that merino wool neutralizes toxic substances. Wool is a natural hydrophobic protein consisting of amino acids that are endowed with the properties of neutralizing toxic substances - ammonia compounds.

Hypoallergenic. Merino wool is not an allergen and contains 8-10% lanolin. Dissolving at a temperature of 35-37 ºС, lanolin penetrates the skin and has a beneficial effect on joints, muscles, spine and respiratory system, and also stimulates blood circulation.

High medicinal properties. Any disease of the respiratory tract disrupts the human body electric potential, which aligns neither medicinal product. Merino wool has the unique ability to equalize electrical potential, which significantly speeds up recovery. Wool softens and soothes acute pain, treats arthritis, rheumatism, radiculitis, helps with fractures, when nursing patients with bedsores, and also promotes a speedy recovery from viral infections that often occur in the autumn-winter period. It is believed that treatment with merino wool is akin to acupuncture. Even in ancient times, seriously ill patients were nursed on sheep skins. Today this method is used in many countries. Thanks to the unique properties of merino wool to absorb and evaporate excess moisture, as well as nourish the skin with lanolin, the effect of the main causes of bedsores - friction, pressure and moisture - is significantly reduced. Products made from this wool perform a gentle micro-massage of the nerve endings of the human body at the capillary level, which normalizes blood pressure and improves blood circulation throughout the body.

All people love comfortable fabrics made from natural threads. Any innovative artificial material cannot be compared with the finest natural sheep wool. It is elastic, soft and performs perfectly when in contact with the skin. Today, clothing made from woolen threads is available to everyone for adults and children, for work, home and leisure. Merino wool is always in trend and extremely practical. The properties of products made from natural threads and the nuances of caring for clothes - you can learn about everything from this article.

Merino wool

What is merino wool?

Merino wool has been used by humans for a very long time, for several centuries. This material has more and more fans, especially with the growing popularity of thermal underwear. It is believed that other types of wool are inferior to it in properties. This is a high-quality yarn made from wool taken from fine-fleeced sheep. Merino sheep live in the specific climate of New Zealand and Australia. Their fur is a protective mechanism against temperature changes. This climate zone has hot summers and very harsh winters.

Sheep feel great in such fine and thick wool; each hair is much thinner than a human hair and has an amazing warming effect. This raw material produces the lightest yarn of increased softness. The products do not irritate even children's skin.

Compound

Merino wool can have different compositions - there is yarn made from fibers of different thicknesses. All options are finer than human hair. Thanks to lanolin in wool, it is non-allergenic. Fiber is believed to have beneficial effects on health. Lanolin dissolves in a temperature environment of 35-37 degrees, so it enters the skin. This substance improves the condition of the spine, muscles and joints, blood circulation and respiratory system. It is known that lanolin has a resolving, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory effect.

Neutral sheep wool contains creatine, which destroys bacteria on the skin, protecting against unpleasant odors.

Properties

It is known that Merino sheep wool is self-cleaning due to its cellular structure. The fibers interact and rub in a special way, miraculously repelling dirt. Things don't have to be washed often. Some merino products are not cleaned at all, only aired or lightly steamed.

This material also has excellent hygroscopicity and thermostatic effect. The layer of fibers holds large volumes of air inside. Interestingly, clothing stably retains the heat of the human body, but does not cause overheating. This question is most relevant in relation to children - they cannot yet tell whether they are warm or cold, but in merino clothing The correct self-regulating microclimate awaits them.

Yarn with a cellular structure absorbs a lot of moisture and also successfully removes it. Even when wet, the material warms. Free air circulation, absorption and removal of moisture are ensured. In such clothes, children are warm in cold weather and comfortable even in hot weather. And again, let's take the little ones as an example - sleeping in clothes made of merino wool saves a child from overheating, improves sleep, calms him down and reduces tearfulness.

Durable and lightweight wool material is so elastic that it can stretch greatly and immediately return to its original shape. We also note that the clothes do not deteriorate or become deformed from many washes. Things made from natural yarn always have a long service life.

Merino clothing is useful to wear for osteochondrosis, sore muscles and joints, bronchial diseases, orthopedic disorders and rheumatism.

Women love merino clothing as it makes their body beautiful. The fact is that regular wearing of woolen items helps relieve swelling.

Merino wool products

Blankets

Modern merino blankets are so soft and pleasant to the body that it is impossible not to buy them. The soft texture of the fabric makes you want to touch it again and again. Airy elastic yarn looks great in the living room or children's room. Manufacturers make blankets from natural fibers so that the user does not experience cold and heat. Merino blankets are ideal for children and those with delicate skin. Moreover, the design of the products is always original; they decorate the interior and make it cozy. Chunky knit blankets are especially beautiful.

warm blanket

Pillow

Pillows stuffed sheep wool, are recommended for people with joint pain, rheumatism, and are not suitable for allergies and asthma. Filler produced in violation of technology emits an odor, but high-quality filler does not smell of anything. The peculiarity of a pillow with sheep wool is that the filling can cake after a few months. Cushion covers are often made from percale. Sleeping is very comfortable, you don’t feel tired in the morning, you can lie on your stomach or back. Micro massage improves blood circulation.

Blankets

Owners of merino blankets are guaranteed a restful sleep and good rest. After sleep, a person feels rested and healthy. All best properties Camel blankets are inherent in merino; by the way, the latter weighs more, but lasts longer and is more practical. Woolen products create dry heat for a long time, have medicinal properties, antistatic, breathable. Bacteria and mold do not take root in a merino blanket. This is the best option for children and people with very sensitive skin.

Bedding - pillows, blankets and blankets made from merino wool really perform very well at home. You can use them regardless of the microclimate in your home and the time of year. Woolen products for sleeping are especially needed by the elderly and young.

Thermal underwear

The peculiarity of thermal underwear is to warm the body and remove moisture from the skin. Such clothes are made for adults and children, they must be worn tight. Ideally, in cold weather, it is worn on a naked body, then a layer of fleece and upper layer depending on the weather. Merino thermal underwear can be used for everyday wear, fishing, or on vacation. A special feature is the high price. But the user pays for best quality and your health. For example, a well-known manufacturer of thermal underwear made from merino wool is the Icebreaker brand.

thermal underwear

Warm clothes

To feel only comfort and warmth in the cold months of the year, purchase following products from merino:

hats - you will be surprised by the existing variety of models and colors, you will definitely find something for yourself;
sweaters - any person will be happy with a merino sweater; you can wear it in different life situations and feel comfortable;
cardigans - today cardigans are ultra-popular different colors and materials are excellent, especially the most delicate thin merino wool, which will not go out of style for a long time;
socks - cozy merino socks allow you to stay warm in any weather; if your feet are warm, the likelihood of getting sick is minimal;
children's overalls - you can buy overalls for any age, made of pleasant wool; the skin of the little ones has excellent contact with the material.

Socks, sweaters and other things are perfectly ventilated, which is why they are so comfortable in winter. Wear items made from merino wool for your health, as they are believed to have a beneficial effect on blood circulation. It is also important to know how to care for this delicate material - read about it below.

vest

How to wash merino wool items?

Washing items made from merino wool should be gentle. There are several options for caring for your clothing.

Handwash

Some items made from merino wool can only be washed by hand. This is the most delicate method of washing wool products. To properly wash an item, you need a basin with warm water. Immerse the product in water, adding soft detergent. Ideally, this should be a product designed specifically for wool. If there is no detergent for merino, then take any other - for silk, wool. Soak the item for 5 minutes. After this, rinse the product with warm water until the detergent particles are completely removed.

Spin

The product needs to be slightly squeezed so that the water comes out, but it should not be twisted or stretched. You can also use a towel - spread the woolen item over it, do not roll it tightly, so the liquid is absorbed into the fabric. Then you need to take another dry towel, put the item on it and wait for it to dry. You can also hang the product on a drying rack.

Machine washable

An easier way to wash woolen items is to use a machine. It is important to use the gentle mode. The wool washing mode is also suitable. You should not wash merino products on a normal or intensive cycle, otherwise fast movements and high speed of rotation may cause things to deteriorate. The water should be warm. Temperature 30-60 degrees. You need to pour or pour into the machine a product that is suitable for woolen items.

Dry cleaning

If necessary, you can send merino products to the dry cleaner. But this method does not need to be used often. Professional dry cleaning involves the application of harsh chemicals. These substances, if used frequently, can damage the fibers. Better to make it basic care hand wash, and go to dry cleaning as a last resort when there are difficult stains.

Removing stains

If a merino wool product has been stained, it is better to remove the stains immediately. A mild detergent can remove dirt. Against greasy stains some work well folk remedies eg talc and starch. You need to sprinkle the selected product on problem area, rub it gently. Talc or starch should come out from the inside. Then shake the item to remove the powder. If the stains do not come off, you can try again. Perform simple manipulations until the greasy stain is removed.

When washing, evaluate the color of the water. If it has acquired the color of the product, then when rinsing you need to add a little table salt to the water. This product will help fix the dyes in the fibers. When purchasing, it is advisable to study the manufacturer’s advice regarding the care of woolen products. All information can be found on the packaging or labels. Some items can only be washed in water of a certain temperature or there are other special care conditions - pay attention to this.

There are yarns of different thicknesses - strong (wide), medium, superfine (thin), ultrafine (ultra-thin). Merino clothing is loved by adults and children all over the world due to its unique characteristics. This is an expensive type of wool compared to others. Merino sheep produce more wool than other breeds. Sometimes other threads are woven into merino wool, such as synthetic acrylic fibers. Thus, the yarn becomes cheaper, but worse in quality. Choose conscientious manufacturers and enjoy wearing merino products.

Often on the labels of children's clothes or bed linen you can see the inscription that they contain merino wool. What kind of material is this, artificial or natural, what qualities does it have? Little is really known about this, so we decided to study the issue.

Origin story

Merino is a breed of sheep whose wool consists of very thin but strong fibers. This is what distinguishes them from other animals, which are bred not only for collecting skins, but also for meat. After all, Merino sheep are much smaller in size than meat breeds, but they are densely covered with a unique wool pile.

There are, however, African and American breeds that combine all the qualities.

Merino first appeared in Spain in the 12th century. The Spaniards had a monopoly in this area. The country took this matter so seriously that the death penalty was imposed on those who tried to take sheep outside the country. This was considered a terrible crime and betrayal. But in the 18th century, this regime fell, and merino sheep came to Sweden, Saxony, and then to Australia.

Today, sheep are bred almost everywhere: in England, Italy, Turkey, Russia. Merino items have gained immense popularity, and the range offered by stores is constantly expanding. And this is understandable, because the material is unique and extremely useful for humans.

Useful properties of the material

We have all known for a long time that natural sheep hair is not only warm, but also saves from various ailments, and is generally useful to wear. Such clothes and underwear:

Stimulates blood circulation.
Has a beneficial effect on joints.
Has an anti-inflammatory effect. Useful for osteochondrosis and rheumatic diseases.
Does not cause allergic reactions even in cases where it is present on other types of natural pile.
Improves sleep.
Warms against colds.
Excellent moisture removal. You will not be blown away if you leave a hot room into cold air.

In addition, merino wool retains good quality for a long time. appearance. It is three times softer than silk and 4 times more elastic than cotton. Things turn out to be soft, elastic and, most importantly, durable. Therefore, the material is often used when sewing clothes for children and bedding for babies. It does not irritate delicate baby skin, warms and improves sleep.

Also, older people love to wear merino wool. After all, most older people have problems with joints and the lumbar region of the back.

What is made from merino wool?

Of course, such useful and practical things are popular. Therefore, manufacturers produce all kinds of products based on merino wool. You can choose for yourself:

Blankets and rugs. They will be warm, soft and will add comfort to the interior.
Children's tights, overalls and hats.
Warm clothes for adults: sweaters, pullovers, turtlenecks.
Thermal underwear for athletes and everyday wear. It wicks away sweat well while keeping you warm.
Shoe insoles and house shoes.
Outerwear.
Special covers for car seats.

This is the only type of wool that they cannot make artificial variant, since it is unique in its qualities and composition. That's why the price is always high. If they try to sell you things at a surprisingly low cost, claiming that they are pure merino, do not believe them.

How to care?

Clothes or linen made from merino wool are considered delicate items and require appropriate care.

Cannot be stored in a plastic bag. Box or paper wrapper only. This way the item will “breathe” and retain its shape longer.
It’s better not to fold it at all, putting it away for storage. But if there is no other option, then you need to straighten the jacket, hanging it on a hanger for a while. It will return to its original form
Hand wash only, at low temperature. Or take it to the dry cleaner.
A wet item should be dried by laying it on a towel. As the towel dries, you need to change it.
If pellets have formed, they should not be pulled off with your hands. Can be carefully trimmed with scissors. This does not mean that the item is of poor quality. This is a natural process.
You can iron, but only through fabric and on low heat.

How long your blanket will be warm and your sweater comfortable and beautiful will depend on care. This very soft material and without good care it won't last long.

Merino wool: price

Merino wool products can be sorted by price depending on manufacturer, weight and composition:

Manufacturer	Product	Compound	Price
Italy, Spain, England



Switzerland

We indicated yarn containing only merino wool. There are many options for combining it with additives: Angora rabbit fluff, polyester, dralon, etc. The cost also greatly depends on this. But if you look at our table, it becomes clear that the most cheap material Produced in Peru, Turkey and Russia. However, the quality is better than that made in Italy, Spain or England.

But if you really want a merino scarf, but you don’t have a lot of money, then inexpensive option. It will turn out just as good: it will warm you up and cure your cough. The only drawback is that items made from cheaper wool do not last as long. But you can knit yourself a new scarf for each season.

So now you'll understand what I'm talking about we're talking about, if you see a label that says merino wool. We told you in detail what it is and how to care for it. These things must be protected and then they will protect your health.

Video about products made from merino wool

In this video, technologist Roman Stasov will tell you what properties merino wool has and its use in thermal underwear:

In recent decades, natural materials have been widely replaced by synthetic ones with a predetermined set of properties.
In pursuit of new ones, advanced technologies, making human life easier, we have learned to pay closer attention not so much to terms and names, but beneficial properties materials used in the manufacture of certain products.
One of the materials whose name is associated with a large number of unique properties is merino wool.

Historical reference

Merino is a unique breed of sheep that has been bred exclusively for its fine wool for decades. High Quality. Spain is rightfully considered the birthplace of this legendary breed. Until 1765, attempts to export this high-quality wool from Spain were punishable by death, and only noble people could wear products made from merino wool.
And only in the 18th century, when the Spaniards were defeated by the British, merino sheep were exported outside the country.

However, the British did not immediately manage to master the art of sheep breeding. About 200 years passed before specialists from other countries were able to achieve significant success in sheep breeding comparable to the skill of the Spaniards.

Ideal conditions for breeding merino sheep were found in Australia, where the widespread use of wool on an industrial scale began.

Australia and New Zealand Today they remain the world leaders in the production of merino wool.

Unique properties of merino wool

Nature has endowed merino wool with unique properties to help animals in their natural environment tolerate low temperatures in winter and too high in summer.

The structure of merino wool consists of twisted, thin fibers, between which an air space is formed, and, as experts have calculated, up to 40 such waves fit on one centimeter of good wool of this type. Just think: the fibers contain millions of air cushions that retain heat regardless of temperature changes.

The structure of merino wool is “scaly” - the outer cuticles cover the fibers like tiles. This structure of woolen hair makes it easy to mat, which is actively used in the creation of non-woven woolen fabrics - such as felt and felt.

Due to its high hygroscopicity, merino wool is able to absorb up to 33% of moisture from its volume, which allows the body under clothes made of merino wool to always remain dry.

The benefits of merino wool

Year after year, as environmentally friendly, healthy fabrics that have a beneficial effect on human health come into fashion, the popularity of merino wool is growing.
Merino wool has pronounced healing properties, primarily due to the high content of lanolin - animal wax.

Among the beneficial effects of merino wool on human health are the following:

1. Merino clothing has a beneficial effect on muscles and joints, so it is recommended for people suffering from pain in the joints and muscles;
2. sweaters, socks, and other clothing made from this wool perfectly stimulate blood circulation;
3. clothing made from this material is classified as “thermal clothing”, since it maintains an optimal microclimate for human health;
4. merino is a hypoallergenic material, this is especially true for people who are hypersensitive;
5. lanolin is known for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and absorbent properties;
6. Merino clothing is indicated for people suffering from osteochondrosis, rheumatism, orthopedic materials, and bronchial ailments;
7. wearing clothes made of merino wool prevents swelling; for those who constantly suffer from this problem, swelling will decrease;
8. effectively absorbs moisture during increased sweating and remains dry;
9. Merino wool is equally beneficial for adults and children.

Why is Merino wool used in KEEPTEX waterproof products?

The distinctive characteristics of merino wool are:

1. Lightweight and high strength
2. Good breathability
3. High hygroscopicity
4. Anti-allergenic
5. Antiseptic properties
6. Ability to maintain an optimal microclimate

These unique properties Merino wool combined with the latest membrane technology makes KEEPTEX products (such as waterproof knitted gloves and waterproof long socks) comfortable, practical, reliable and durable, equally useful for both professionals and everyday use.