Natural fiber

Keratin-based protein fiber from the fleece of sheep

Naturally biodegradable

Thermal

Breathable

Moisture management (hydrophobic)

Soft and comfortable, but has a rough texture 

Naturally high level of UV protection, antistatic, antistain, easy care

Has a natural crimp which gives it resilience

Burns only when exposed to a flame 

Short, staple-length fibers

Wool comes from the fleece of sheep

It can be stock dyed

May be dyed in the fiber stage

Step by step:

• Shearing or chemical removal of the fleece

• Washing the fleece to remove potassium salts and using an acid bath to remove cockleburs and vegetable matter

• Removing lanolin, which is reused

• Carding and spinning to make yarn

• Further production into fabric

Maintenance

• White wool will yellow​

• Bacteria can breed, and moths will eat wool

• Can be damaged by strong laundry detergents

• Avoid soil accumulation

• Vacuum regularly

• Spot and stain removal--only use mild soap, blot dry

Wool is naturally biodegradable

Wool fibers have a low abrasion resistance, and are not strong, but pills break off easily

It is highly insulative, which reduces heat costs when used as flooring or wall coverings

More expensive to produce than human-made fibers

Most likely harvested away from source and needs transportation

Finishing and dying require chemicals and water

Wool is recyclable