History
Wool is a natural, renewable fiber that comes from the soft undercoat (as opposed to the outer guard hairs) of sheep. However, sheep are not the only animals that produce wool used in textiles. Cashmere goats provide cashmere, angora goats produce mohair, angora rabbits yield angora, and camels (including alpacas) supply alpaca wool and camel hair. Other animals, such as musk oxen (quiviut) and yaks, also contribute valuable wool fibers.
Sheep have existed in Europe and Asia for around 2.5 million years. Before the Ice Age, they were much larger, similar in size to oxen. The domestication of sheep began around 9,000 BC in Southeast Asia, making them one of the first animals to provide both clothing and food for humans. Wool has been used for garments for over 10,000 years, making it one of the oldest known textile fibers. Even today, despite the rise of synthetic fabrics and widespread cotton production, wool remains an essential part of the global textile industry. Sheep are raised in many countries around the world, including the United States.
Wool as an Imported Fabric
Despite being produced in many regions, the majority of wool used in textiles is imported, primarily from Australia, New Zealand, South America, and South Africa. Historically, during the Iron Age and before the invention of shears, wool was plucked by hand. Over time, shearing methods evolved, and today, most sheep are shorn once or twice a year using electric shearing machines. This modern method ensures that the wool is removed efficiently and safely, typically as a single fleece.
Wool Quality and Varieties
The quality and value of wool depend on several factors, including the body part from which it is shorn. The finest wool typically comes from the shoulder area, followed by the neck and sides. Different sheep breeds also produce varying wool qualities, with Merino sheep being known for their exceptionally soft and high-quality wool.
Once the wool is shorn, it undergoes a thorough cleaning process to remove dirt and natural oils (lanolin). After drying, the wool is spun into yarn, ready to be used in textile production. Depending on the intended application, wool is often blended with other fibers such as cotton, polyester, or nylon to enhance its durability, texture, and performance.
Properties
Wool’s Unique Fiber Structure
Wool is packed with amazing properties, all thanks to its special fiber structure. Each wool fiber consists of an outer cuticle and an inner cortex. This unique combination gives wool its excellent moisture management. The outer cuticle is hydrophobic, meaning it repels liquid water while allowing water vapor to pass through and be absorbed into the cortex. As a result, wool can hold up to 35% of its own weight in moisture without feeling damp. It also wicks moisture away much faster than commonly used cotton, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Another remarkable feature of wool is its natural self-cleaning ability. When wool absorbs and releases moisture, different fiber components within the cortex swell at varying rates. This movement helps shake off dirt particles before they can settle. Since dirt doesn't penetrate deep into the fiber, wool stays cleaner for longer, making it a low-maintenance fabric choice.
A Natural, High-Performance Material
Unlike synthetic fabrics, wool hardly absorbs odors. Instead, odors are naturally released into the air, so wool products remain fresh after just a short time outdoors. Wool is also an excellent insulator—its fibers are made up of about 85% air, which traps body heat and prevents it from escaping. This makes wool a go-to fabric for temperature regulation in both cold and warm climates.
Another key advantage of wool is its durability. Wool fibers are highly elastic, meaning they resist wrinkling and rarely need ironing. They are also naturally anti-static, fade-resistant, and moisture-wicking, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout the day.
Safety is another important factor: wool is naturally flame-resistant. Instead of burning, it chars, reducing fire risks compared to many synthetic fabrics. While wool can sometimes pill, this can be minimized with proper finishing techniques. Additionally, some types of wool may feel scratchy, but modern processing methods have made wool softer and more comfortable against the skin.
With its breathability, durability, and all-natural benefits, wool remains one of the best fabric choices for comfort, performance, and sustainability.
Care Tips
Wool garments should be either hand-washed or machine-washed on the wool cycle at a maximum temperature of 86°F (30°C) using a wool detergent. Always turn garments inside out before washing to protect the fabric. Avoid rubbing, wringing, or twisting the material. After washing, rinse thoroughly with cold water and gently roll the garment in a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
Drying and Ironing Tips
Never put wool garments in the dryer, expose them to direct sunlight, or place them on a radiator to dry. Instead, lay them flat on a drying rack to maintain their shape. When ironing, use the steam setting with light pressure. If ironing without steam, place a damp cloth between the garment and the iron to prevent unwanted shine.
Conclusion
Wool stands out as one of the most remarkable fibers, whether natural or synthetic, thanks to its numerous benefits. Highly versatile, it is used across a wide range of textiles, from everyday clothing to specialty fabrics. Its excellent thermal insulation and natural flame resistance make it a popular choice for fireproofing and insulation materials. Beyond fashion, wool is widely utilized in blankets, upholstery, carpets, mattresses, and workwear. It also plays a crucial role as padding in the automotive and aviation industries.
Despite its many advantages, wool is used far less frequently in textile production compared to cotton and synthetic fibers. This is largely because wool requires more careful maintenance, can sometimes feel slightly scratchy against the skin, and is prone to pilling. Nonetheless, its unique properties continue to make it a valuable and sustainable choice across various industries.
