Wool is one of the best natural materials for protecting horses in all weather conditions. But to maintain its special properties, wool needs the right care - and this is where lanolin plays a crucial role. Find out why caring for wool with lanolin is important and how it supports your horse's well-being when you use wool blankets or pads.
What is lanolin?
Lanolin is a natural fat found in sheep's wool. It protects the wool fibers from moisture, dirt and external influences and keeps the wool soft and supple. Thanks to lanolin, wool can repel moisture and insulate without losing its breathability.
Why does wool need lanolin?
When wool is processed, some of the natural lanolin is often removed. To maintain the water-repellent and conditioning properties of wool, lanolin should be added regularly. Here are the main reasons for this:
- Maintaining water repellency: Lanolin makes wool naturally water repellent, allowing rain and moisture to bead off while the fibers underneath remain dry. Without lanolin, wool can lose its protective function and get wet more quickly.
- Softness and suppleness: Lanolin keeps the fibers supple and prevents them from becoming brittle. Regular lanolin care ensures that wool stays soft and retains its pleasant texture.
- Durability: Well-cared-for wool lasts longer. The lanolin protects the fibers from abrasion and wear, which significantly extends the lifespan of wool blankets and underlays.
Why is this also good for your horse?
Proper care with lanolin has direct benefits for your horse's well-being when you use wool blankets or wool saddle pads:
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protection from wetness and cold
Wool blankets that are treated with lanolin offer optimal protection against rain and moisture. Even if the blanket gets wet, the wool retains your horse's body heat thanks to lanolin. Your horse stays comfortably warm and dry, even in bad weather. -
breathability and temperature regulation
Wool is known for its natural breathability. Wool treated with lanolin wicks moisture away from the horse's back without disturbing the heat balance. Your horse stays dry, while the wool also helps regulate body temperature regardless of external conditions. -
Skin-friendly and nourishing
Lanolin acts as a natural protective film and cares for the horse's skin. This is particularly beneficial for horses with sensitive skin or a tendency to chafe. Wool blankets with lanolin protect your horse's skin and prevent skin irritation. -
Odor-neutralizing and dirt-repellent
Lanolin has the ability to neutralize odors and repel dirt. Wool blankets that are regularly cared for with lanolin require less frequent washing, as dirt and odors are less likely to stick. This makes caring for wool blankets easier and more sustainable.
How to care for wool with lanolin?
Caring for wool with lanolin is simple and effective:
- Washing: Use special wool detergents containing lanolin or add a lanolin bath after washing to provide the wool with its natural fat.
- Aftercare: Apply lanolin sprays or solutions to dry wool to enhance its water-repellent and conditioning properties.
- Regularity: Regular lanolin care keeps the wool supple and resistant to weather and wear.
Conclusion
Caring for wool with lanolin is crucial to maintaining the wool's unique properties and providing your horse with optimal comfort. Wool blankets treated with lanolin protect against moisture, regulate temperature and are particularly skin-friendly. They offer your horse a comfortable feel and extend the life of your wool blankets and saddle pads. Invest in the right care - your horse will thank you!
