If you’re someone who suffers from allergies, skin sensitivity, or just can’t seem to get that truly restorative sleep, your quilt could be part of the problem. Often people will prioritise thread count or aesthetics, overlooking the fact that the fibre of the quilt itself may be the solution.
With over 75 years of expertise behind us, we know that when it comes to comfort and allergies, few materials offer the skin-friendly, sleep-enhancing benefits of natural wool, but its still a misconception that wool causes allergies.
Let’s explore why wool quilts can be the solution and why they are the naturally hypoallergenic choice for sensitive sleepers.
The Misconception: Wool Sensitivity vs. Wool Allergy
Before we go any further, it's crucial to understand that true wool allergies are incredibly rare. In fact, wool products often help people with sensitive skin feel more comfortable.
- Skin Sensitivity is common, and in the past most discomfort from wool was often caused by coarse fibres irritating the skin, not an allergic reaction. Thanks to modern techniques, today’s wool products are much softer and gentler on the skin than they used to be.
- True Wool Allergy, on the other hand, causes a strong immune response, much like an allergy to pollen or peanuts with serious and severe symptoms – this is extremely rare with wool. That’s because the protein in wool, Keratin, is similar to the protein in our own hair and skin, so allergic reactions to wool are very unlikely.
At Creswick Woollen Mills, we use Downs Wool that is sourced from Poll Dorset sheep, which produces dense, springy fibres, perfect for quilts and doonas. Unlike Merino wool (which is finer and more delicate) Poll Dorset wool is strong yet carefully crafted to feel soft and gentle on sensitive skin, eliminating the harsh feel associated with traditional wool.
What Makes Wool So Skin-Friendly? The Science of Natural Fibres
So, what exactly makes wool so unique, and why is it often recommended for those with sensitive skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis? The answer lies in its remarkable natural composition and structure.
1. The Power of Lanolin: Nature's Protective Barrier
Wool fibres are coated in a natural wax called lanolin. While some people might have a very rare sensitivity to lanolin itself, many people with eczema or delicate skin find it soothing and comforting. Lanolin is known to:
- Moisturise the skin, helping to prevent dryness and flakiness, which can exacerbate irritation.
- Act as a natural antibacterial barrier, as it naturally inhibits the growth of bacteria, keeping your bedding fresher for longer and reducing the need for frequent washing – another plus for sensitive skin!
2. Dust Mite Resistance: A Breath of Fresh Air
Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments and feed on shed human skin cells. Unlike synthetic bedding which traps heat and moisture creating the ideal conditions for dust mites to thrive, wool quilts work differently to offer a naturally effective solution for those who struggle with allergies to dust mites.
- Dry Environment: wools moisture wicking nature creates a drier, less hospitable environment for dust mites to survive.
- Breathable Structure: The open, breathable structure of wool fibres makes it more difficult for dust mites to settle and multiply compared to dense, synthetic materials.
3. Natural, Chemical-Free Comfort
In a word where we’re more aware than ever of the chemicals in everyday products, our wool quilts offer a refreshing natural alternative.
- Minimal Processing: The high-quality wool we use requires very minimal processing and is naturally resistant to mould, mildew, and bacteria, reducing the need for harsh chemical treatments.
- Sustainable Choice: Wool is a renewable and biodegradable fibre, so its not only kind to your skin but also to the planet.
Transform Your Sleep with Creswick Wool Quilts
When you choose a Creswick Wool quilts, you’re choosing more than just better sleep – it’s a commitment to quality, comfort and Australian heritage. Creswick Woollen Mills proudly creates woollen products designed to support your health and deliver truly restorative sleep.
Ready to experience the natural difference? Explore our exquisite range of breathable, beautifully made, wool quilts and discover the hypoallergenic, sleep-enhancing difference for yourself.
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