Merino wool for kids – why it's worth investing in
Merino wool isn't like any other wool. It's soft, temperature-regulating and gentle on even the most sensitive skin. But what actually makes it special – and how do you care for it? Here's a simple guide.
What is merino wool?
Merino wool comes from the merino sheep and is one of the finest types of wool available. Unlike regular wool, merino wool is extremely soft and itch-free, even against newborn skin. That makes it an obvious choice for children who are sensitive to textures.
What's the difference between merino wool, regular wool, alpaca wool and cashmere?
Merino wool and allergies: is it safe for sensitive children?
Many parents worry about whether wool itches or causes allergic reactions. Here's what you need to know:
Does merino wool itch?
No, not in the same way as regular wool. Merino wool fibres are much finer than regular wool, and it is precisely the fibre thickness that determines whether wool itches. Merino fibres are so fine that they bend against the skin instead of prickling. That makes merino wool gentle even on newborn skin and children with sensitive skin.
Is merino wool hypoallergenic?
Merino wool naturally contains lanolin, which is the substance that most often triggers reactions in people with a wool allergy. However, true wool allergy is rare. It is far more common for children to react to itchy fibres than to the wool protein itself.
If your child has a documented lanolin allergy, alpaca wool is a good alternative, as it is naturally lanolin-free.
Why merino wool is especially good for babies
Babies can't yet regulate their body temperature as effectively as older children. This is where merino wool plays a special role: it retains warmth when it's cold and wicks moisture away from the skin when the baby is warm – without the body overheating. Combined with its soft, itch-free surface, this makes merino wool one of the gentlest and most versatile choices for the very youngest.
What does Wheat do to ensure gentle materials?
Wheat's merino wool is Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, which means the clothing has been tested for harmful substances and is safe against your child's skin. See our
selection of merino wool for kids.
Why is merino wool good for kids?
Merino wool is naturally temperature-regulating – it retains warmth when it's cold and transports moisture away from the body when the child is active. This means your child neither gets cold nor sweats too much. At the same time, merino wool is naturally self-cleaning, so it doesn't smell even after a long day at nursery and therefore doesn't need washing as often.
When should kids wear merino wool?
Merino wool works best as the base layer – directly against the skin. It is ideal from autumn to spring, typically when the temperature is below 15°C. Add thermo wear or rainwear on top, and you have a combination that keeps your child comfortable all day.
How do you wash merino wool?
Merino wool needs a little extra care when washing:
- Extra gentle machine wash at 30°C
- No fabric softener
- Do not tumble dry
- Dry flat – not hanging, as this can stretch the material
- Iron at low temperature if necessary
Find the right woollens for your child At Wheat, you'll find merino wool for kids from 0 to 12 years – designed as the perfect base layer for the cold months. See our selection and find the right size for your child.
When can you just air merino wool instead of washing it?
One of merino wool's most practical properties is that it is naturally self-cleaning. This is because merino wool is naturally antibacterial and moisture-wicking, which means odour-causing bacteria struggle to thrive in the material.
In practice, this means you can often just hang merino wool out in fresh air instead of washing it. That saves time, water and wear on the material.
When is airing enough?
• After normal everyday use without visible stains
• When the garment smells a little but isn't visibly dirty
• After a calm day when your child hasn't sweated much
When should it be washed?
• If there are visible stains or dirt
• After intense play with lots of sweating
• Regularly throughout the season, even if it doesn't smell
Hang the merino wool outdoors or in a well-ventilated room for a couple of hours. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can break down the fibres over time. Afterwards, the garment is usually fresh and ready to wear again without washing.
Frequently asked questions about merino wool
What is merino wool?
Merino wool comes from the merino sheep and is one of the finest types of wool available. It is extremely soft, itch-free and temperature-regulating, and is gentle even on newborn skin.
Is merino wool good for children with sensitive skin?
Yes. Merino wool's fine fibres bend against the skin instead of prickling, which makes it very gentle. It's a good choice for children who are sensitive to textures. If your child has a documented lanolin allergy, alpaca wool may be a better alternative.
When should kids wear merino wool?
Merino wool works best as the base layer directly against the skin. It is ideal from autumn to spring, typically when the temperature is below 15 degrees. Add thermo wear or rainwear on top for the best combination.
Can merino wool be machine washed?
Yes, but it needs a little extra care. Use an extra gentle programme at 30 degrees, no fabric softener and no tumble dryer. Dry flat, not hanging, as the material can stretch.
How often should merino wool be washed?
Far less often than synthetic clothing. Thanks to merino wool's self-cleaning properties, you can often just air the garment in fresh air instead of washing it. Only wash when there are visible stains or the garment is soaked with sweat.
Does merino wool itch?
No. Merino wool fibres are so fine that they bend against the skin instead of prickling. That's exactly what sets merino wool apart from regular wool.
What is Wheat's return policy?
Wheat offers a 30-day full right of return on items bought in the webshop. The return period starts on the day you receive the item. You pay the return shipping yourself, which is deducted from your refund. Create your return via the returns portal. Please note that the right of withdrawal lapses if the item has been used or damaged. Items bought from retailers must be returned to the retailer.
Does Wheat offer exchanges?
Wheat does not offer exchanges. If you would like a different item, please place a new order. Read all terms and conditions here.