Why Wool Blankets are Your Bosom Buddy for Hot Summer Nights

Of course we look forward to those balmy summer nights, but for decent deep sleep, the heat can pose a challenge. You may think to pull out a hollow fibre "3 tog" duvet or that light thin fleece blanket. But will it work? Probably not. All too often you start the night hot and sticky and then, in the small hours, half wake a touch cold and clammy. There is a far better solution and it’s as old as the hills. Well nearly.

Counter-intuitive it may be, but a better plan by far is a pure wool blanket. "Wait, what? Wool?" I hear you cry. Thinking wool is for winter, for cold nights in front of the fire or a Succession binge? Wrong. Think again.

Wool: The Unexpected Summer Companion

That lightweight plastic duvet (even the most expensive one) will probably still be too warm, so why wool?  Our bosom buddy during the winter, wool is surprisingly also your cool companion for summer. The fact is that wool is a far cleverer fibre than any bedding textile mankind has yet been able to produce. It’s all in the science. Here's why...

Wool has Breathability for Comfort

Wool fibres are crimped, and when tightly packed together, form millions of tiny pockets of air. This unique structure allows it to absorb and release moisture—either in the atmosphere or perspiration from your body—without compromising its thermal efficiency. Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture, compared to synthetic fibres which can only absorb around 4%.   This is a key factor in wool's breathability as it can manage moisture and regulate temperature, keeping the body cool and dry in warm conditions. This means that while you're sleeping under a wool blanket, it's continually transferring moisture away from your body, keeping you feeling dry and comfortable throughout the night. By contrast, Synthetic fibres like polyester or nylon, with their simple structure, are less efficient at managing moisture and temperature, often causing you to feel uncomfortably warm and sweaty [1].

Wool does Temperature Regulation for Deeper Sleep

Wool is an active fibre that reacts to changes in body temperature. It's the only textile that keeps you warm when you're cold and cools you down when you're hot [2]. Hard to believe, but the “active fibre” phenomenon is real. It is  is because of its hygroscopic abilities, allowing it to absorb and release moisture, and in doing so, it generates heat. This heat increases your body temperature and makes you feel warm. On the other hand, when you're hot, it releases moisture, which evaporates and cools you down. A synthetic fibre bedding has not yet been been produced that has these properties. The effect is that you are more comfortable under a broader range of temperatures when sleeping with wool than with manmade fibre, cotton, linen or even down [3].

Wool is hypoallergenic for easy breathing

Wool is also hypoallergenic. It resists bacteria, mould, and mildew, which can trigger allergic reactions in many people. House dust mites cannot abide wool (they don’t like the dry environment and get caught up in the microscopic scales on the fibre). Think you’re one of the few who is allergic to wool? It’s extremely unlikely. See why here.

Wool boasts Sustainability, for People &  Planet

Wool is a sustainable and eco-friendly option. It's a renewable resource, biodegradable, and requires less energy to produce than synthetic fibres. It needs far less washing and care - it almost never gets smelly, it requires far less laundry and care than virtually all other fibres, so it uses less energy during its life cycle than other fibres. Plus, it doesn't contribute to microplastic pollution, can be reused, recycled, upcycled and eventually composted.

Duvet Addict?

If you can’t bear the thought of a blanket and a sheet, we do of course have a solution for you. Our Pure Wool Duvets are fabulous for summer sleep heat. They combine all the qualities of wool with the convenience of a duvet. We even do a Summer Weight Wool Duvet. What’s not to love?

The Wool Company's Collection

We’ve got you (lightly) covered; from sumptuous bed blankets to featherlight wonders working specifically for those sultry nights. We offer a best  range of well made wool blankets and throws for summer heat, from bed blankets to lightweight blankets perfect for summer nights.

Our British Made Merino wool blankets are long time favourites, known for their softness and warmth. For something even lighter, our ever-popular Wool Cellular Blanket is a great option.

Dream deeply under one of our Merino wool blankets, adored for their breathability, unparalleled softness, and for dressing a bed. And for those seeking a touch of weightlessness, our Wool Cellular Blanket emerges as the ultimate choice—combining lightness and practicality. Great for layering on colder nights too.

Discover our featured products:

• Wool Cellular Blanket: Learn More
• Lightweight Merino Blanket: Learn More
• Cashmere Blankets: View Collection

Snuggle up in style this summer with The Wool Company's exceptional wool blanket collection. Experience the ultimate blend of comfort, elegance, and natural goodness. It's time to elevate your slumber to a whole new level.

The Science of Sleep

Sleep is a complex process, and the environment we sleep in can significantly impact the quality of our rest. The science of sleep suggests that wool can enhance our sleep in several ways.

Better Sleep Quality

Studies have shown that wool bedding can lead to a 25% increase in stage 4 sleep (the stage of deep sleep where the body repairs and regrows tissues, builds bone and muscle, and strengthens the immune system) and a 20% increase in overall sleep efficiency.

Faster Sleep Onset

Wool can help you fall asleep faster. In a study, participants fell asleep at least 7 minutes faster with wool bedding than with synthetic bedding.

Less Sleep Disruption

Wool bedding can also reduce sleep disruptions. The same study found that participants woke up less frequently when sleeping with wool bedding.

So, why not swap your duvet for a wool blanket this summer? Not only will it help you sleep better, but you'll also be making a sustainable choice. Remember, good sleep is not a luxury, it's a necessity. So, invest in your sleep, invest in wool. 

References

Population, World Production and Quality of Sheep and Goat Products

Introduction to Camel Origin, History, Raising, Characteristics, and Wool, Hair and Skin, A Review

Other scientific studies that support wool use for better sleep: -

https://www.dovepress.com/the-effects-of-fabric-for-sleepwear-and-bedding-on-sleep-at-ambient-te-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-NSS

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6716586/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6554012/