Why Merino Is a Summer Essential (Yes, Even When It's Hot!)

I used to think wool was strictly for freezing mornings, Nana's knitting, and winter layering. Summer? Forget it, not even close to the top of the list for baby's summer wardrobe. Who would dress a baby in wool when its 28 degrees outside?! Well, it turns out I had it all wrong - and Merino is basically natures air conditioning for babies.

Myth Busting - Wont They Overheat?

I'll be honest, I was terrified. Babies are tiny, delicate and apparently fragile human thermometers. I thought anything wooly would have them turning into little boiled dumplings by lunchtime. But here's the science: Merino wool is thermoregulating. That means, in layman's terms, it keeps you baby warm when cool, and cool when its hot. NIWA research shows that fine Merino fibres trap air in microscopic layers, creating a natural barrier that helps the body maintain a stable temperature. Unlike cotton, which just clings and traps sweat, Merino wicks moisture away from the skin.

How Merino Actually Keeps Baby Cool

Because Merino can absorb moisture (sweat, spit up) and transport it away from the skin, baby remains dry - which in turn helps with heat loss, rather than staying wet and clinging against the skin which can trap heat. Merino can absorb up to 30% of it's weight in moisture before feeling damp and releases moisture gradually, avoiding sudden chills. (AgResearch, 2018). Merino works beautifully layered in thinner pieces rather than relying on heavy, bulky fabrics. Less bulk = more space for airflow and less chance of overheating.

When I Actually Use It in Summer

I had no idea how quickly babies can overheat - not just in hot weather, but even on mild days. Studies have shown that car seats left in  sunlight can reach surprisingly high temperatures (well over what's comfortable for little bodies), and even covering a pram or capsule with a light blanket can trap heat like a mini greenhouse, making a Merino Swaddle Blanket and ideal, breathable solution. Because babies can't regulate their temperature's like we can, they may not show obvious signs until they're already uncomfortable. That's why I've become more conscious about what they're dressed in, not just how many layers - choosing fabrics that breath and release heat instead of trapping it can make such a big difference.

I'm talking everyday situations: park, playdates, early morning walks, and even car rides with the sun blazing through the windscreen. Layer a lightweight Merino bodysuit under a cotton romper or a Merino Sleep Gown in the evening - and voila baby is happy, dry, and neither too hot nor too cold.

If you're worried about sweating, overheating, or constantly changing outfits, Merino really is the unsung hero of summer babywear. I wish I'd known this sooner because it would've saved me countless mid afternoon outfit changes, mini laundry explosions and worrying that my little one was uncomfortable.

So yes - Merino babywear in summer time is not just an out there selling point, it can be a literal life saver. If nature had a baby friendly air conditioning system, its fine Merino wool. Buttery soft, breathable, odour resistant, and moisture wicking, it really does just quite simply work. Trust nature, she knows what she's doing.