The Complete Guide to Wool Baby Clothes
Wool baby clothes were my biggest baby-wardrobe-related surprise of motherhood. I effing love them.
Turns out that I am willing to die on this hill (of old age… because this take is so perfect that no one is coming to fight me). They’re stylish. They’re warm. They wick moisture, meaning my baby was less likely to develop a drool rash around his neck if I left him without a bib for 5 minutes. They don’t show wrinkles as much as many of the cotton dress clothes (which came in handy when I wanted to dress him as a fancy boy).
Here’s everything you need to know about wool baby clothes. From the pros to the cons to how to keep them clean, I’ve got you covered.
Can Babies Wear Wool?
Yes, babies can wear wool. Wool is natural, breathable, and can help babies regulate their body temperature (which is an added perk since newborns can’t regulate their body temperature). That makes it a pretty clutch material for baby gear, especially if you live in a colder climate and/or have a winter baby.
Anxiety about wool for babies does seem pretty widespread (there are a lot of people searching, “Is wool bad for babies?” and “Is wool bad for newborns?”). This anxiety seems to come from the fact that wool is a thermal material, and many people worry that babies will overheat. While there are definitely risks associated with overheated babies, wool is generally considered a safe material.
However, not all wool is created equal. Anyone with memories of “scratchy” wool sweaters in childhood can tell you that. So, when choosing wool for baby clothes, you’ll want to choose soft and fine wool to avoid irritation to a baby’s sensitive skin.
The Benefits of Wool Baby Clothes
My time as a new mom taught me that wool is one of the most underrated materials for baby clothes. Here are the top reasons I love it.
Low maintenance: Let’s start with the most shocking claim right out of the gate. Yes, I am telling you that a potentially “hand wash only” material is pretty low maintenance. I’ve found that I have to wash wool baby clothes less frequently than most other materials. Most spit-up (and other) stains can resolved with a quick rinse. And here’s another surprise– some wool baby clothes are machine washable (just be sure not to put them in the dryer).
Natural and breathable: Wool is a natural fiber that's extremely breathable, helping to regulate your baby's body temperature. This makes woolen garments perfect for both summer and winter, providing insulation when it's cold and wicking away moisture in warmer conditions. That said, if you do choose wool for warmer months, you will want to choose a lighter-weight garment.
Durability and elasticity: Wool fibers are naturally strong and stretchy, meaning wool baby clothes can withstand a lot of wear and tear. They'll likely last through multiple children, making them a sustainable choice.
Hypoallergenic properties: High-quality wool is hypoallergenic and resistant to bacteria, mold, and mildew, which is beneficial for babies with sensitive skin or allergies.
The Cons of Wool Baby Clothes
There are some drawbacks to wool. Let’s get honest about them.
Cost: Wool can be more expensive than synthetic fabrics, which might deter some parents. However, its durability and versatility can make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Potential for irritation: While fine wool like Merino is generally well-tolerated, some types of wool may irritate sensitive skin. It's important to choose the right wool garments designed specifically for babies.
Maintenance: Wool requires a bit more care than other fabrics. Some items may need hand washing or special detergents, which can be a consideration for parents looking for convenience.
How to Wash Wool Baby Clothes
To maintain the integrity of wool baby clothes, follow these general guidelines:
Machine Washable Wool
Use a gentle, wool-safe detergent and select a wool or delicate cycle on your machine. Lay flat to dry away from direct heat or sunlight.
Hand Wash
For items that aren't machine washable, use lukewarm water and a gentle wool detergent. Soak briefly, then rinse thoroughly but gently to avoid stretching the fabric.
How to Wash Handmade Wool Baby Clothes
Handmade wool garments often require a bit more care:
Spot Clean: Address spills and stains immediately with a gentle wool cleaner.
Hand Wash Gently: Use lukewarm water and mild soap. Avoid wringing or rubbing the fabric harshly to prevent felting and shrinking.
How to Store Wool Baby Clothes
Proper storage is key to preserving wool baby clothes for future use. For the best results, follow these tips.
Clean First: Always store items clean to avoid attracting pests.
Avoid Plastic: Store wool in breathable cotton bags or wrapped in acid-free tissue paper to prevent moisture buildup.
Moth Prevention: Natural moth repellents like cedar blocks or lavender sachets can protect wool items from damage.
The key to success with wool baby clothes is to pick something soft so your baby is comfortable. And then never put it in the dryer. Good luck!