Merino wool vs. organic cotton: which to choose for baby ?

When you become a parent, every choice takes on new importance, especially when it concerns your baby's well-being. Among the decisions to be made: which textile to choose for baby's clothes, sleeping bag or cocoon? Two natural materials often come up in conversation: merino wool and organic cotton. So which is best suited to your little one's delicate skin? Here's a comparison to help you decide.

1. Softness: an essential criterion for baby's skin

Merino wool is renowned for its exceptional fineness. Unlike conventional wool, it's non-itchy and suitable even for very sensitive skin. It envelops baby in a feeling of cocooning comfort.
Organic cotton is also very soft, especially when combed or GOTS-certified. It's hypoallergenic and chemical-free, making it perfectly suited to newborns.

Verdict: Equality, both materials are perfectly soft and adapted to baby's skin.

2. Thermoregulation: keeping baby at the right temperature

Merino wool is naturally thermoregulating. It keeps baby warm when it's cold and wicks away moisture when it's warmer. It's the ideal material for preventing night sweats or chills.
Organic cotton, while breathable, doesn't have the same capacity for thermal regulation. It's better suited to moderate or warm temperatures.

Verdict: Advantage merino wool, especially for colder seasons or babies sensitive to temperature variations.

3. Care: everyday practicality

Wool is often mistakenly thought to be difficult to care for. However, merino wool is naturally antibacterial and odor-resistant, which reduces the frequency of washing. A gentle hand wash or machine wash on the wool program is all that's needed.
 Organic cotton, on the other hand, is very easy to care for: it can be machine-washed at 30 or 40°C. It can, however, shrink or become damaged more quickly if it is not of good quality.

Verdict: Slight preference for organic cotton for its ease of care, but merino makes up for it with its durability between washes.

4. Ecology and sustainability: responsible choices

Organic cotton is grown without pesticides or chemicals, which makes it more respectful of the planet than conventional cotton. However, its cultivation requires a lot of water.
 Merino wool is a renewable, biodegradable fiber derived from sheep raised mostly on free-range pastures. Provided it is well sourced (from animal-friendly farms), it also has an excellent ecological profile.
Verdict: Equality, provided you check product traceability.

Conclusion: a question of needs

Merino wool is a true daily ally. Thanks to its thermoregulating properties, it's suitable for all seasons: it keeps baby warm in winter, while letting his skin breathe in summer. It's a versatile fabric, particularly appreciated in winter if baby is chilly.
 Organic cotton, on the other hand, remains a must-have for sunny days, or for parents looking for a fabric that's easy to care for on a daily basis.

Our advice: choose merino wool for its year-round practicality, and alternate with organic cotton according to your baby's preferences and habits. Either way, you're making a soft, healthy and natural choice for your little one.