Is wool naturally flame-resistant?

Yes, wool is one of the most naturally flame-resistant fibers available. It has a high ignition temperature of approximately 570-600 degrees Celsius, significantly higher than cotton or synthetic fibers. When exposed to flame, wool chars and self-extinguishes rather than melting or continuing to burn. It does not drip like synthetic fabrics, which is important because melting plastic droplets can cause severe burns.

This natural flame resistance means wool products can meet flammability standards without chemical flame retardant treatments. This is particularly valuable for children's sleepwear, bedding, and home textiles where flame retardant chemicals like PBDEs and OPFRs would otherwise be applied. Untreated merino wool sleepwear for babies and children provides flammability protection through fiber chemistry rather than added toxins.

Brands like Icebreaker use merino wool in layers that are naturally safe near heat sources without chemical treatments. For parents concerned about flame retardants in children's clothing, merino wool is an ideal alternative. ONDU highlights wool's natural flame resistance as one of many reasons to choose natural fibers over treated synthetics.