One of the deepest hopes we hold as parents and caregivers is that our little ones feel safe, comfortable, and at ease in their bodies. From their very first days, much of that comfort comes from the warmth and touch we provide them with.
At Warmth and Weather, we believe this extends beyond just keeping them warm. It’s about helping babies and toddlers feel comfortable in their own skin, in harmony with the earth, the air, and the gentle unfolding of life. That’s where soft, breathable wool — especially fine Merino wool — becomes such an essential ally.
Why does wool make a difference?
Temperature regulation
Newborns and toddlers cannot regulate their own temperature as well as older children or adults — much of their energy is spent simply staying warm and comfortable. Wool helps by doing what it does best: retaining warmth when needed and, just as importantly, allowing excess heat to escape when it’s too much.
In fact, studies have shown that babies sleeping on wool bedding experienced significantly greater weight gains than those on cotton bedding. IWTO+1 Wool’s natural insulating and temperature-regulating properties create a gentler microclimate around the child. Wool also wicks moisture, helping to prevent overheating and sweating.
Skin health + sensitivity
Many people think wool is ‘scratchy’, but when we work with ultra-fine wool like Merino and silk, it is incredibly soft and gentle — even on tender baby skin. Research indicates that what was once called a “wool allergy” is usually a reaction to coarse fibres or harsh processing, not to wool itself. IWTO Wool+1 Wool’s lanolin content and fibre structure also help skin hydration and reduce irritation for babies with sensitive skin or eczema.
Better sleep, calmer rhythms
Sleep is foundational in early years — for growth, development, and for the whole family’s well-being. Studies indicate that babies who sleep in wool bedding or garments settle faster, cry less, and achieve deeper sleep. IWTO+2American Wool+2
Wool creates a sense of secure calm: the fabric envelops them in natural softness, helps regulate temperature, and reduces disruptions. When the baby sleeps more peacefully, the whole household breathes a little easier.
Sustainability + wellness alignment
Choosing wool also supports a health-conscious, earth-friendly lifestyle — a core value for Warmth and Weather. Wool is renewable, biodegradable, and when responsibly sourced, benefits both human health and the environment.
How to embrace wool for babies and toddlers
Begin with base layers or sleepwear: Soft Merino onesies, pyjamas, or sleep sacks encase your baby in breathable warmth.
Use wool for sleep time: A Merino sleep sack or blanket can help regulate body temperature throughout the night and promote restful sleep.
Layer naturally for outdoor or active time: For toddlers exploring outdoors, wool underlayers or light wool sweaters and pants keep them comfortable as they transition from inside to outside. Remember that they spend most of their time on the floor or on the ground, which is cold!
Keep it simple: Many wool and silk garments are machine-washable on the wool cycle or can be aired out. Wool’s natural self-cleaning and odour-resistant properties mean you’ll often wash them less, saving time and helping garments last longer.
An invitation
If you’re seeking thoughtful, health-giving ways to support your little one — ways that align with body, soul and spirit — considering wool is a lovely place to begin. It meets the immediate need of comfort and warmth, and it supports broader rhythms of rest, growth and connection with the natural world.
Let their early days and toddler explorations be enveloped in softness, breathability, and the quiet strength of natural fibre. As they learn to move, sleep, rest, play, and grow, wool supports that journey with warmth, comfort, and compassion.
We know that organic wool is costly, which is because of the care and attention involved in making it. Remember, we also have our Warmth and Weather Marketplace where you can often find some of the essentials.
