New research conducted by British Wool, the International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) and Bangor University has concluded that wool is the ultimate fibre for temperature regulation and moisture management during sleep, shares wool bedding retailer, Woolroom.
The study aimed to compare the performance of full-sized single duvets of similar Tog ratings (10-10.5 Tog) that are readily available on the UK retail market, made with four fillings – wool, down, feather and down, and synthetic (polyester).
Wool emerged as the warmest fibre type, the trio state, with the study confirming that wool is a better insulator than down by 17%, synthetic by 25% and feather and down by 30%. Thermal testing also concluded that wool retains more heat over time, meaning it will maintain a more consistent temperature throughout the night than any other fibre type.
The wool duvet reportedly significantly outperformed all others in tests to analyse moisture management properties. It absorbed the least amount of moisture, while transmitting the most moisture much faster than other fibre types in trials to simulate sweat wicking away from the body. This means that a wool duvet will contribute to deeper, more restorative sleep, as the sleeper is less likely to wake up during the night as a result of overheating, state the authors of the research.
An active member of the IWTO’s research group, and MD of Woolroom, Chris Tattersall, says: “This research is a momentous step forward for the British wool industry and something I am really proud to personally have been heavily involved in.
“Wool is a miracle fibre that can completely transform sleep quality, as it combats one of the most common disruptors to sleep – overheating and waking due to sweating. While we have come a long way from its itchy, wiry, school jumper connotations, I'm confident that this study will be pivotal in showcasing its true temperature-regulating benefits to a global audience.”
As "the only renewable bedding fibre that is sustainable, chemical-free and hypoallergenic", wool has been gaining popularity in recent years, with its benefits offering "life-changing" relief to those experiencing menopause symptoms, night sweats or suffering from allergies.
This trend is evidenced by the growth of the East Midlands wool bedding retailer, which experienced revenue growth of 17.6%, a gross profit improvement of 26% and PBT growth of 196% in the 2024-25 financial year.
Chris adds: “The past year has been a significant one for Woolroom, as we have officially doubled in size since 2021. Our business is thriving in the UK and US, and we are currently celebrating new showroom openings in China – a major development for a proud family-run business from Oakham. We are confident that the results of this study will contribute to the ongoing growth of the UK's wool industry, as well as Woolroom’s continued success overseas.”
To celebrate the results, Woolroom has launched its ‘Bangor of a Sleep Guarantee’, a 60-day trial whereby any wool duvet purchased from Woolroom from February 1st onwards will be eligible for a full refund if the sleeper is not satisfied with their duvet.
Pictured: Sheep at Red House Farm, Wales
