1. ANTIBACTERIAL AND LOW ODOR

Wool is antibacterial thanks to the surface structure of wool fibers, and thus at the same time low odor. While synthetic fibers are smooth, wool fibers have a scaly structure. Figuratively speaking, they are reminiscent of roof tiles. For this reason, it is difficult for bacteria – and thus also unpleasant odors – to adhere to the fiber. In addition, wool wicks moisture away quickly, so that less sweat accumulates on the skin and odor does not form in the first place. The protein molecule keratin, which is contained in wool, also plays its part in the odor-inhibiting effect by breaking down bacteria. Furthermore, the fiber makes use of a mechanical self-cleaning process: The fiber core consists of two different cell types that absorb different amounts of moisture and therefore swell unevenly. This creates constant friction and the fiber cleans itself over and over again.

With our sheep wool we try to further implement regional value creation. 80km away from our production, together with our partner sheep farm “Belzner”, we take care that sheep wool is transformed from a pure “waste product” back into a real raw material.

Further processed with innovative manufacturing processes directly in Dinkelsbühl, our pure wool becomes a real high-tech fiber from Franconia.

2. EXCELLENT TEMPERATURE REGULATION IN ALL SEASONS

A key feature of wool that we particularly appreciate is its excellent properties in terms of moisture and temperature regulation. In winter, wool offers pleasant warmth for your child, while in summer it provides cooling comfort. The insulating capacity of wool is a key factor in its thermal properties. Air, which takes up to 85% of the total volume of the crimped wool fibers, forms air cushions that store body heat and do not transmit it. Due to this property, air is a poor conductor of heat, but an excellent insulator, similar to the principle of the onion look.

Sheep’s wool does not generate heat per se, but retains body heat. The trapped air not only acts as an insulating layer against the cold in winter, but also protects against heat in summer. This principle can also be found in double-walled windows, where the air between the panes has an insulating effect in both summer and winter.

The thermo-regulating properties of wool are retained even when wet. In contrast to down, wool still feels warm even when damp. Their structure allows moisture to migrate into the fiber core while the surface remains dry. Wool is also equipped with a unique warming mechanism. On contact with moisture, wool undergoes an exothermic process in which absorption heat is released and the temperature is increased by up to 10 degrees. This process continues until the fiber is completely saturated. Even a soaked woolen fabric can still give off heat, as mechanical frictional heat is generated during movement. Nevertheless, we recommend using the rain cover supplied in the event of heavy or persistent rain.

3. EXCELLENT MOISTURE REGULATION

The moisture-regulating properties of wool are remarkable. Wool fibers can absorb up to 35% of their own weight in moisture without feeling wet. In comparison, synthetic fibers can only absorb less than 10% of their dry weight in moisture.

The hygroscopic structure of the wool fiber allows the surface to remain water-repellent, while the inside of the fiber absorbs moisture efficiently. The fiber can absorb water vapor quickly and also conducts perspiration through fine channels into the interior. This enables wool to effectively balance moisture levels in its environment.

Another advantage of wool is its ability to keep you cool in summer. When the ambient air is warm and perspiration is absorbed by the wool fiber, it evaporates on the outside of the fabric. For this evaporation process, heat is drawn from the wool fibers, which leads to cooling and generates evaporative cooling. Due to its hygroscopic properties, wool is also resistant to house dust mites, which prefer a humid climate. This helps to prevent asthma attacks, which can be triggered by dust mite allergens.

4. DIRT- AND WATER-REPELLENT PROPERTIES

In addition to its antibacterial and thermoregulating properties, wool also offers excellent dirt and water repellency, making it an ideal material for baby carriages. Spilled liquids can be easily wiped up before they leave stains. This is made possible by the natural wool grease lanolin, which is found on the fiber surface and prevents water and dirt from penetrating. The strong crimping of the fibers creates a lotus effect that causes water droplets to roll off.

Wool is also antistatic, making it less susceptible to dust, dirt and lint. Pure new sheep’s wool is a durable and robust material, suitable for intensive use. Their fibers can be bent up to 20,000 times without breaking, making them ideal for baby carriages. Wool also does not crease easily and returns to its original shape even after being stretched by 30%. Its elastic structure prevents the fiber from becoming flat and hard. Wool is also difficult to ignite and is more likely to char than burn.

In terms of natural UV protection, wool ranks among the top materials, surpassed only by polyester. It offers more protection than other natural fibers such as cotton, viscose and linen. This makes wool the natural material with the highest sun protection factor.

Wool is also superior in terms of sustainability. As a renewable raw material, it is more environmentally friendly and conserves resources in its production than synthetic fibers, which are made from petroleum. Pure new wool is biodegradable, whereas synthetic fibers take up to 30 years to decompose.

The fascinating history of wool stretches back over 10,000 years. It is indispensable for us at ANGELCAB, not only because of its natural functionality, but also because of its recyclability and wide range of applications.

5./6. DURABILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

The sustainability of wool is a central element in our product philosophy at ANGELCAB. We source our wool directly from the Belzner sheep farm, just 60 km away from our production site. This local source of supply minimizes the carbon footprint and strengthens the regional economy by prioritizing short transport routes and supporting local businesses.

As a natural fiber, wool is highly recyclable. At the end of its life cycle, wool can be biodegraded and therefore does not contribute to environmental pollution. The biodegradability of wool means that it can be returned to the natural cycle at the end of its useful life without leaving any harmful residues.

Another aspect of wool’s sustainability is its longevity. Wool fibers are extremely robust and can be used over long periods of time without any loss of quality. This reduces the need for frequent replacement and thus reduces the consumption of resources.

The use of wool also supports biodiversity. Shepherds like Belzner contribute to the preservation of the landscape and promote a healthy ecosystem in which sheep graze. This natural grassland provides a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species and supports the preservation of biodiversity and soil health.

In summary, the use of wool in our products is an important step towards an environmentally conscious and sustainable production method. By working with local sheep farms such as Belzner, we are actively committed to reducing the ecological footprint and promoting the circular economy.