How To Use Merino Wool and Cotton in Baby Clothing

This article details the importance of using the natural materials of Merino wool and cotton in newborn accessories and clothing.  These materials are time-tested and are best for helping to keep your newborn as comfortable as possible, the way nature intended.

1. Newborns and toddlers can’t tell us when they are too hot or too cold. Providing the perfect environment for your newborn or toddler doesn't have to be difficult. We as parents and care givers need to provide the optimum conditions to ensure they are comfortable. The array of synthetic fibers used to produce newborn clothing and accessories in recent years generally don’t breathe.
2. We need to get back to basics. The time proven fabrics of Merino and Cotton are ideal in providing optimal conditions to comfort the wearer. Merino provides a microclimate by creating a buffer against changing conditions and insulating the skin from the external environment.

   Newborns should be dressed only in natural fibers, with either Merino or Cotton next to their skin. Swaddle wraps and blankets should only be Merino wool or cotton. This way we can ensure that our newborns are kept at an ideal temperature.

3. Compare Merino with nylon and polyester. Warm and light, Merino is therefore ideal for year-round wear. When the air is cold or damp, Merino is four times as likely to release heat to the garment wearer than if that person was wearing nylon. Merino displays this property at twice the rate of polyester. Natural wool also exhibits fire-resistant properties.
4. Merino is a hydroscopic fiber. Merino is unique in that it is capable of absorbing moisture vapor whilst repelling liquids. In technical terms Merino can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture before it starts to feel damp.
5. Merino is luxuriously soft to touch. The ultra fine fibers do not irritate the skin, making merino the ideal material to look after newborn skin. Three to four merino fibers equal the width of human hair, giving you an idea of the fineness of the fiber.
6. Environmentally conscious. Natural and renewable, Merino wool is produced in the high country of New Zealand's pristine South Island, the perfect environment for producing Merino wool of world-renowned quality.