One of the most common questions we get at Snuggle Cubs is: Is Merino wool itchy? The answer is no. When processed properly, Merino wool is soft, breathable, and gentle, even for sensitive skin. Its fine fibers won’t scratch or irritate, making it a natural and luxurious choice for comfort and sustainability. In this article, we’ll explore what Merino wool is, how it compares to other natural fibres, and why it’s an ideal choice for organic clothing lovers.
What is Merino Wool?
Merino wool comes from merino sheep, a breed renowned for producing some of the softest and finest wool. With a fiber diameter usually between 17 and 24 microns, merino wool is much finer than regular wool, which can measure over 30 microns. This finer diameter is the key to its soft feel and high breathability, making it comfortable for wearing close to the skin. Human hair, for comparison, has a diameter of about 50 microns, which emphasizes how thin and delicate merino wool fibers are.
The unique structure of merino wool also gives it properties like temperature regulation, moisture-wicking, and odor resistance. These benefits of merino wool a favorite for those who lead active lifestyles, need garments that work across different climates, or simply enjoy comfortable, high-performance fabrics.
Merino wool does not irritate the skin, does not itch and offers natural protection against odors while effectively wicking away moisture. Whether you're looking for a warming base layer for winter, comfortable underwear for travel or socks for everyday wear or outdoor adventures, merino feels soft and blends perfectly with your skin.
>>> Read more on : What is Merino Wool? Benefits of Merino Wool
The Advantages of High-Quality Merino Wool
Merino wool is not only a soft fabric but also offers a range of benefits that make it a favorite choice across climates and activities. Here are some of the top benefits of merino wool that contribute to its comfort and versatility:
+ Temperature Regulation: Merino wool acts as a natural insulator, keeping wearers warm in cold weather while remaining breathable in hot weather. This temperature-regulating property stems from the wool’s structure, which can trap warm air in cooler conditions and release it as temperatures rise.
+ Moisture-Wicking and Quick-Drying: Wool fibers can absorb up to 30% of their weight in moisture without feeling damp. This moisture-wicking capability pulls sweat away from the skin, keeping the wearer dry and reducing the risk of overheating. Plus, merino wool dries quickly, making it an ideal choice for high-intensity or prolonged activities.
+ Odor Resistance: Merino wool’s natural antibacterial properties come from lanolin, which helps prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria. This property is particularly useful for activities that don’t allow frequent laundry, like multi-day hiking trips. Unlike synthetic fabrics that can harbor odors, merino wool stays fresher for longer.
+ UV Protection: Merino wool has a natural UV-blocking capability, which provides added protection when spending extended periods outdoors. Though not a replacement for sunscreen, merino wool is a helpful secondary defense against sun exposure.
Is Merino Wool Itchy?
In the past, wool products contained large amounts of coarse fibers (>24 microns). Most people found these fibers itchy, and this itchiness was related to the wool itself, not the microns that were originally used. Ultimately, the coarser the fibers, the more the fabric irritates and pinches.
In response to the competition, advanced processing techniques have further refined Merino wool to reduce itchiness, enhancing its appeal for sensitive skin. Futhermore, the unique properties of Merino wool also include moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating abilities, which help keep the skin dry and comfortable, reducing further chances of irritation. However, some people with extremely sensitive skin may still experience mild itchiness, though this is rare.
Nowadays, merino wool is often much less itchy than traditional wool due to its ultra-fine fibers, which are typically around 17-24 microns in diameter, compared to the much coarser fibers found in standard wool. This small diameter makes Merino fibers softer and more flexible, reducing the prickling sensation commonly associated with wool. Additionally, the fiber's structure and natural elasticity help it move with the skin rather than pressing against it, contributing to a softer feel.
Tips for Reducing Potential Itchiness in Merino Wool
If you want to get rid of itching in your merino wool clothes, we offer you some tips and recommendations to help you do so.
To ensure the safety of your clothes, it is very important to read the label carefully before washing. Pre-washed merino wool does not need to be washed as often as other types of clothing, as it is already pre-washed. This helps prevent itching as the garment stays cleaner longer between washes.
+ Step 1: Change the way you wash - if you use hot water and soap, try using cold water and mild soap instead.
This will prevent damage caused by high temperatures during washing. You can soak the item in a bucket filled with cold water for a few hours and then hang it to dry. Mix half a cup of water with white vinegar.
+ Step 2: Add a little fabric softener to keep the fabric looking its best. If possible, let the garment stand for an hour.
+ Step 3: Remove the sweater from the washing machine and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water. Rinse thoroughly to remove any fabric softener residue.
After washing, it's best to let the garment air-dry. Do not hang the garment on a hanger to prevent it from losing its shape. Avoid tumble-drying, as the merino wool will shrink. After drying, the sweater should be folded tightly and stored in a zip-lock bag. We recommend freezing this bag for 24 hours after placing it in the freezer.
>>> Learn more about: How to Wash Merino Wool Clothes: A Comprehensive Guide
What is merino wool used in?
From mountaineering to lounging at home, merino wool has found its way into various types of clothing, thanks to its versatility and comfort. Here are some common uses:
Base Layers and Thermals: Ideal for cold weather, merino wool base layers help retain warmth without adding bulk. They’re highly valued by winter sports enthusiasts who need reliable insulation in variable conditions.
Socks and essentials: Merino wool socks and gloves offer moisture-wicking and odor resistance, perfect for hiking or active use. Even in warm conditions, merino socks can help regulate foot temperature and reduce blisters.
Casual baby clothes: baby top, bottoms, and other casual items made from merino wool provide the same benefits in more fashionable forms. These items have gained popularity for both work and leisure, giving wearers a blend of style and comfort.
In conclusion, Merino wool is largely non-itchy for most people due to its fine, soft fibers that are far gentler on the skin than traditional wool. While individual sensitivity varies, Merino wool's unique properties, such as flexibility and moisture-wicking, make it a comfortable option for those looking for warmth without irritation. This fabric's growing popularity in active and everyday wear reflects its reputation as a soft, skin-friendly choice.
