Yes, I know that wool is a wonderful fiber that regulates temperature, has water resistance, etc etc. But what I am really looking for is better understanding about the comfort/support aspects of wool - as a layer, as a topper, in a pillow, however!
If Latex is generally “springy” and Memory Foam is “sinky and pressure-reliefy”…what is wool? Does it firm up a feel? Does it soften a feel? I’ve done a LOT of reading about mattress materials but I don’t hear much about wool beyond it’s reputation as a temperature-regulating marvel. Enlighten me!
Hello misterawesome.
Wool can add softness and provide some cushioning effect to more localized parts of the body.
While wool quilting may reduce pressure relief to some degree depending on the type and thickness and compression of the wool and on the firmness of the foam below it … (more in the longer term as it compresses) … for some this is a welcome trade-off for the breathability and temperature regulation of a natural fiber and on the ability to avoid synthetic materials in their mattress.
Some fibers, particularly the natural ones such as linen, silk, wool, and horsehair are very breathable and because of this and their ability to maintain their insulating abilities when they are moist can add significantly to the temperature and moisture regulation properties of a mattress which can significantly improve the quality of sleep. This is particularly true when they are used over comfort layer materials that tend to sleep hot such as less breathable foams like memory foam. There is also some evidence that this temperature regulating quality of natural fibers, in particular wool, can help in maintaining deeper sleep and aid in overall rest. For this reason they are often used in spite of the “tradeoff” of slightly less pressure relief. An alternative of course is to add a mattress pad with these materials which can be replaced when it compresses or wears out.
NikkiTMU
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