Sheepskin differs from man made fibers in that they wick moisture away from the skin, trapping air as they do so. Both these effects help stabilise the temperature for young and old alike. For young babies you will want a sheepskin shorn fairly short, leaving no long hairs to get in the way. Another benefit of short hair is the speed of drying, which can be surprisingly quick in a tumble dryer (full instructions here).
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 the wearer—without compromising its thermal efficiency. Wool has a large capacity to absorb moisture vapour (up to 30 per cent of its own weight) next to the skin, making it extremely breathable.
BREATHABLE
– Campaign For Wool
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 the wearer—without compromising its thermal efficiency. Wool has a large capacity to absorb moisture vapour (up to 30 per cent of its own weight) next to the skin, making it extremely breathable.
Cool as a cucumber
Sheepskins make a great addition to a picnic, giving you an instant soft bed for a flaked-out tot. Lay it out under a tree and the baby should be fine with just a light cotton sheet on top. Pack water, obviously, and check baby’s temperature regularly – sheepskins help regulate temperature but they are not fridges.
Sheepskins have a range of applications where keeping cool is important. Bed bound folks find relief from sores as the soft cushioning effect spreads out pressure. The wicking property plays a key role. What many people don’t realise is that sheepskin can be washed and dried in the same time it takes to wash and dry a pair of jeans.
Tough and versatile
Motorcyclists too use sheepskins on long-haul journeys, finding the added comfort valuable and much preferable to the hard plastic standard issue bike seats. It goes without saying that sheepskins are also warm in winter.
“What makes them so good? Sheepskins are cooler than vinyl or leather saddles when it’s hot. Usually they’re pale in color and reflect heat. There’s shade between the strands of wool and, with aeration, heat dissipates fast, also wicking away sweat.”
– Adventure Motorcycle.com
Sheepskins are not magic and cannot make anything cooler. But they can be shaved short and serve as incredibly useful pram liners, ad hoc beds, seat covers and a multitude of other things. If you want one for a small person in your life simply write ‘SHAVED PLEASE’ in the delivery notes when you place your order. If you have a special use in mind don’t hesitate to get in touch and we’ll serve you just as we like to be served ourselves.
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Cottage Cream Sheepskin£129.00
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