Another common myth that we aim to debunk is that wool is expensive, especially compared to synthetic alternatives. On the surface level this appears to be so, as a wool sweater will almost always have a higher sticker price than a synthetic version. But there may be more at stake here than saving pennies. Let’s take a deeper dive into this and find out the true cost of that synthetic sweater at an almost-too-good-to-be-true price.
When comparing thread-to-thread or pound-to-pound, depending on what type or form of textile you’re looking at, wool is indeed more costly than most other fibers, especially synthetics. Clothing or bedding of similar styles rise in price when made with natural fibers, particularly wool, and especially specific types of wool such as merino blankets.
We live in a world today where most of us have access to easy, fast fashion at the tip of our fingers (and wallet) to help us keep up with ever changing trends.
And if we want it even cheaper, with just a little patience, the biggest sales arrive where stores are practically giving things away. So why should we pay three or even ten times the price of a blanket or comforter just because it is made of wool?
Here are a couple of reasons:
Ethics
Whenever you’re tempted to buy cheap discounted goods, try to remind yourself that if the price is too good to be true, then there’s probably something really not good about it. There’s a multitude of hidden costs behind department store and online deals, and it’s usually other human beings, animals, or even Mother Earth who paid the price of the true value of that item somewhere down the line. It usually starts right at the beginning of when that good was made.
Many inexpensive products are often made by laborers who are paid unfair wages, if at all (yes unfortunately human trafficking still is a major problem in the world), and these people are exposed to dangerous machinery or deadly, toxic chemicals every day for long periods of time. Practically every large clothing and home goods store has been under scrutiny, and in some cases found guilty, for illegally using children as laborers or exposing their workers to inhumane conditions.
Do you want to take part in that?
We didn’t think so. And neither do we.
Health
Another reason to consider wool products is your health.
Depending on what a product is made from, you the consumer may be making up for the discount with your health. That super soft, fluffy blanket you snuggle up in could be shedding chemicals all over your home.
Where do these teeny tiny fibers go? Hopefully not embedded in your skin or worse, in your lungs. Also, don’t forget some synthetics, like microfiber, could be polluting our waters every time it’s washed.
Yes, simple research will certainly reveal that wool can be more expensive than other products. However, when you consider your conscience and the fact that wool far outlasts any fiber because it’s tens-of-thousands of times more durable, there’s clearly more to that story.
Durability
If you take care of your wool products, in the long run it’s the more economical choice. At Shepherd’s Dream, our products are meant to be heritage keepsakes, so one comforter or bed can last a lifetime with the right care.
If you choose to buy that cute poly-filled comforter on sale instead, it will likely need to be replaced in five years. Those costs add up quick.
As consumers, we have a duty and a responsibility to be informed about our purchase choices and act accordingly whether we think we can afford it or not. We want you to feel good about our products. Our customers are conscious people who care, not people who spend their hard-earned money on frivolous things that won’t last.
We’re here to help you, and everyone on Earth, sleep your natural best!
Myth solved. Continue reading to learn about other common myths about wool:
