1. What Is Merino Wool?
Merino wool is a natural animal fiber obtained from Merino sheep, a breed originally developed in Spain and now widely raised in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and parts of South America. Unlike coarse traditional wool, Merino wool fibers are exceptionally fine and elastic, making them suitable for garments worn directly against the skin.
Merino wool is primarily composed of keratin protein, the same structural protein found in human hair and nails. This protein-based composition gives Merino wool its unique balance of softness, strength, moisture regulation, and thermal insulation.
From a manufacturing perspective, Merino wool is valued for:
At imfieldcashmere, we work with carefully selected Merino wool suppliers to ensure fiber consistency that meets international brand standards.
2. What Is Merino Wool Made Of?
The core question—what is Merino wool made of—can be answered on both a biological and chemical level.
2.1 Biological Composition
Merino wool fibers grow from the follicles of Merino sheep. Each fiber consists of three main layers:
Cuticle – The outer protective layer made of overlapping scales
Cortex – The inner body of the fiber, responsible for strength and elasticity
Medulla – Usually absent or minimal in fine Merino wool fibers
2.2 Chemical Composition
Merino wool is composed primarily of:
Table: Chemical Composition of Merino Wool Fiber
| Component | Percentage | Function |
| Keratin protein | ~95% | Strength, elasticity, durability |
| Lipids (lanolin) | 1–2% | Softness, water resistance |
| Moisture | Variable | Thermal regulation |
This keratin-based structure is what makes Merino wool biodegradable, renewable, and skin-friendly.
3. Fiber Diameter and Why It Matters
One of the most important quality indicators in Merino wool is fiber diameter, measured in microns.
| Fiber Type | Average Diameter (microns) |
| Ultrafine Merino | 15–17 µm |
| Fine Merino | 18–19 µm |
| Medium Merino | 20–21 µm |
| Ordinary wool | 25–35 µm |
Finer fibers bend more easily when touching the skin, which explains why Merino wool does not cause itching. At imfieldcashmere, we select Merino wool grades based on the intended end-use, such as base layers, knitwear, or blended fabrics.
4. How Merino Wool Is Produced
Understanding what Merino wool is made of also requires understanding how it is processed from sheep to fabric.
4.1 Sheep Shearing
Merino sheep are typically shorn once a year. Ethical shearing ensures animal welfare and fiber integrity.
4.2 Sorting and Grading
Raw wool is sorted by:
Fiber diameter
Staple length
Color
Strength
4.3 Scouring
Scouring removes lanolin, dirt, and impurities using controlled washing systems.
4.4 Carding and Combing
Carding aligns fibers
Combing removes short fibers for higher-end yarns
4.5 Spinning
Fibers are twisted into yarn with controlled tension to preserve elasticity.
At imfieldcashmere, our factory works with long-term spinning partners to ensure yarn stability suitable for OEM and ODM projects.
5. Merino Wool vs Cashmere: Key Differences
As a professional cashmere manufacturer, we are often asked about the difference between Merino wool and cashmere.
| Feature | Merino Wool | Cashmere |
| Source | Merino sheep | Cashmere goats |
| Fiber diameter | 15–21 µm | 14–16 µm |
| Warmth | High | Extremely high |
| Durability | Excellent | Moderate |
| Price | Mid–High | High–Luxury |
| Common use | Activewear, knitwear | Luxury knitwear |
Many brands choose Merino wool–cashmere blends to balance cost, durability, and luxury feel—an area where imfieldcashmere offers strong development capability.
6. Performance Properties of Merino Wool
Merino wool’s internal structure gives it outstanding performance characteristics:
6.1 Temperature Regulation
Merino wool traps air in its crimped fibers, providing insulation in cold conditions while remaining breathable in warm climates.
6.2 Moisture Management
Merino wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet.
6.3 Odor Resistance
Keratin naturally inhibits odor-causing bacteria, making Merino wool ideal for travel and activewear.
7. Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Modern consumers care deeply about sustainability. Merino wool aligns well with eco-conscious values.
7.1 Renewable and Biodegradable
Merino wool is a renewable fiber and decomposes naturally in soil.
7.2 Carbon Footprint
When responsibly managed, sheep farming contributes to regenerative agriculture.
7.3 Our Factory Commitment
At imfieldcashmere, we prioritize:
Responsible sourcing
Long-term supplier relationships
Reduced chemical processing
Quality over mass production
8. Merino Wool Applications in Fashion
Merino wool is widely used in:
Our factory produces Merino wool garments for private labels, wholesalers, and designers across Europe and North America.
9. Merino Wool Care, Washing, and Long-Term Maintenance
Understanding what Merino wool is made of also helps consumers and brands care for it correctly. Proper care significantly extends garment lifespan, reduces pilling, and preserves softness—an important selling point for premium brands.
9.1 Why Merino Wool Requires Special Care
Merino wool fibers are made of keratin protein with a natural crimp structure. Excessive heat, friction, or harsh chemicals can damage this structure, leading to shrinkage or felting.
9.2 Washing Merino Wool Garments
| Care Method | Recommendation |
| Hand wash | Cold water, gentle detergent |
| Machine wash | Wool cycle, laundry bag |
| Water temperature | Below 30°C |
| Detergent | Neutral or wool-specific |
Merino wool’s natural odor resistance means garments require less frequent washing—an environmental advantage emphasized by many sustainable brands.
9.3 Drying and Storage
Lay flat to dry
Avoid direct sunlight
Store folded, not hung
Brands working with imfieldcashmere often include care-label customization to reinforce premium positioning.
10. Why Brands Choose imfieldcashmere
Although we are best known as a cashmere manufacturer, imfieldcashmere is also a trusted Merino wool clothing factory.
Our Advantages:
We help brands translate fiber knowledge into commercial success.
11. How imfieldcashmere Supports Brand Growth Beyond Manufacturing
11.1 Material Consulting
We help clients choose fibers aligned with brand positioning.
11.2 Product Development Support
From yarn selection to knit structure optimization.
11.3 Long-Term Partnership Model
We aim to grow together with our clients, not just complete orders.
12. imfieldcashmere OEM & ODM Production Process
12.1 Material Selection
Based on client positioning, we recommend Merino wool grades or Merino–cashmere blends.
12.2 Design & Sampling
Our team supports:
Tech pack review
Yarn selection
Knit structure development
12.3 Bulk Production
Strict QC at each stage
Inline inspection
Final garment testing
12.4 Packaging and Delivery
We offer private-label packaging and export-ready logistics for Europe and North America.
13. FAQ About Merino Wool
Q:Is Merino wool itchy?
A:No, fine Merino wool is soft and skin-friendly.
Q:Is Merino wool better than regular wool?
A:Yes, due to its finer fiber diameter and superior comfort.
Q:Can Merino wool be blended with cashmere?
A:Yes, and it is widely used for balanced performance and cost.
Conclusion
Merino wool is more than just a natural fiber—it is a globally structured industry supported by centuries of expertise, modern science, and responsible manufacturing.
For brands seeking a trusted Merino wool and cashmere manufacturer, imfieldcashmere combines material knowledge, factory execution, and B2B understanding to support long-term growth.
Understanding what Merino wool is made of is the foundation. Choosing the right manufacturing partner is the key to success.
