Little H&H · Merino ·

What Are the Best Fibres for Babies and Toddlers in Winter?

Merino wool is the best fibre for babies and toddlers in winter. It keeps them warm without overheating, draws moisture away from skin, and fine merino feels soft rather than itchy. Use it as their main layer, with natural sheepskin on top for pram walks.

Key facts

  • Itch comes from coarse wool fibres over 30 microns; fine merino on the other hand is far finer than a human hair, so it bends softly against skin rather than prickling (Woolmark). This is why all of our knitwear (from gilets to sherpa suits) is made from merino wool.
  • A Murdoch Children's Research Institute study found superfine merino reduced mild-to-moderate eczema in children, compared with cotton (Woolmark).
  • Wool can absorb up to 35% of its weight in moisture before it feels wet (Woolmark).

Why merino beats cotton and synthetics in winter

Cotton holds moisture, so a sweaty toddler soon turns cold and clammy. Synthetic fleece on the other hand traps heat but doesn't breathe. Merino does both jobs: warm on frosty mornings, comfortable once you're back indoors.

Infographic of the Conker Merino Sherpa Suit: naturally temperature-regulating, super-soft Italian merino yarn, hand-finished seams and foldable cuffs

It's the same fibre behind Hyde & Hare's much-loved merino lambswool throws, woven in a British mill for warmth, lightness and sensitive skin.

How to layer merino this winter

  1. Start with a soft, breathable base layer.
  2. Add merino: a gilet for toddlers, or an all-in-one Sherpa Suit for babies.
  3. Outdoors, finish with a merino beanie and mittens. Take them off indoors.
  4. Feel the back of their neck. If it's clammy, remove a layer.

Infographic of the Dove Merino Bear Beanie: temperature-regulating, ultra-gentle Italian merino yarn with hand-finished seams

Quick answers

Is merino suitable for newborns?
Fine merino is soft and breathable, making it a gentle choice from birth. The Little H&H Sherpa Suit starts at 0–6 months.

Does merino itch?
Fine merino rarely does. Itch comes from coarse fibres over 30 microns; merino is far finer, so it bends softly against skin.

Wrap them in merino this winter. Our Little H&H Wardrobe, from sherpa suits and gilets to beanies and mittens, is knitted from Italian merino and crafted in Porto.

Shop the Wardrobe

Related: 5 autumn activities for toddlers · Natural baby essentials

Sources: Woolmark: sensitive skin · Woolmark: eczema research · Woolmark: breathability

About the author: Piers Dickinson is the founder of Little Hyde & Hare.

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