Learn why wool is the best fiber for area rugs

Wool, one of the oldest textile fibers known, has survived the test of time because of its unique natural properties. The basic characteristics wool possessed in the Stone Age era, for instance, are still the fundamental qualities that make wool unique in this century. Today there are many other textile fibers, but as yet science has not been able to produce another fiber containing all the natural properties of wool. Wool remains unique; a masterpiece of design.

Wool is Water Repellent

While wool can absorb moisture, it repels liquids. The scales on the outside of the fiber cause liquid to roll off the surface of the wool fabric. For instance, if you accidentally spill water on the floor, it is no use trying to mop it up with an old wool jumper because the wool will not absorb the liquid. Similarly, if water spills on your area rug it will take quite some time before the water penetrates your wool rug.

Wool is Fire Resistant

Wool is naturally safe. It does not have to be specially treated to become non-flammable. While it can catch alight, it will not flare up nor support a flame. Instead of burning freely, once the flame is removed a cold ash is left which can be brushed away immediately. Wool does not melt when burned, and so cannot stick to the skin and cause serious burns. Because of its fire-resistant qualities, wool blankets, furnishings and carpets in your home are necessary insurance, and wool for clothing (particularly children) will protect from accidents associated with fire. Firemen wear wool uniforms, and fire-fighters in rural areas should always ensure they dress themselves in wool before rushing to fight a fire.

Wool is Naturally Elastic

Wool is naturally elastic, greater than that of any other fiber. Wool can be twisted, turned and stretched, and yet it returns to its natural shape. This is why wrinkles disappear from wool garments when they are rested, and why wool carpets retain their springy pile for many years. A wool fiber when dry can be extended by about 30 percent. When wet it will stretch by between 60 and 70 percent.

Wool Wears Longer

Wool not only wears longer, it also keeps its good appearance and stays new-looking longer. It doesn't get shabby in a short space of time. Each wool fiber is made up of millions of "coiled springs" that stretch and give rather than break, and so wool is extremely durable. Wool stands up to the stresses and strains of normal wear because it gives rather than resists friction. The durability and strength of the coarser wool gives us furnishings materials and carpets which retain their good appearance for a long time. One of the reasons why so many people hang on to a favorite old wool garment for so many years is because it retains its original appearance longer than most other fabrics.

Wool is Versatile

Wool fabric, knitwear and carpets are made from a wide range of wool types varying from extra fine for suits and knitwear through to broad fibers which give carpets their strength and character. This means that wool gives designers endless potential for their creations - from delicate fabrics to rugged outdoor wear. Wool technologists have developed an endless number of combinations of weave, knits and textures, from sheer lacy knits and light airy worsteds to bulky tweeds and heavy over coating. Different sheep breeds, each with their own unique fiber characteristics provide manufacturers with different wools for an even wider range of products. Blending various wool types in different ways adds further to wool's versatility. It is small wonder then that wool is found in products as diverse as paint-rollers and mattresses, carpets and coats, furnishing fabrics and high-fashion suits, blankets and underwear, curtains and skiwear, wall paper and tennis ball coverings.

Wool Resists Static

Because wool naturally absorbs moisture from the air, the tendency to collect static electricity is reduced. Walking across a wool carpet, you are less likely to receive a shock when you touch a grounded object. Wool garments are much less likely to "spark" or cling to the body.

Wool Insulates Against Noise

Wool is a wonderful insulator against noise. It absorbs sound and reduces noise level considerably. For this reason wool carpets are often used in offices, restaurants, airport terminals, etc. Wool is also an ideal material used in such places as concert halls to attain the best acoustics possible.

Wool Resists Dirt

Wool resists dirt, retains its appearance, and stays cleaner longer. Its ability to absorb moisture prevents a build-up of static electricity and therefore wool does not attract lint and dust from the air. Furthermore the crimp in the wool fiber and the scales on the outside of the fiber assist in keeping dirt from penetrating the surface. The same qualities also make it easier to clean.

Wool Dyes Beautifully

Wool dyes so easily and the range of colors is limitless. The scales on the surface of the wool fiber tend to diffuse light giving less reflection and a softer color. Because proteins in the core of the fiber are reactive, they can absorb and combine with a wide variety of dyes. This means that the wool holds its color well as the dye becomes part of the fiber.