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Top Merino Clothing & Sleepwear Questions from Our Customers

Top Merino Clothing & Sleepwear Questions from Our Customers

We at The Sleep Store are passionate about helping new babies and parents sleep better, which is why we've developed our exclusive range of 100% merino clothing, sleepwear and sleeping bags.

We often get questions about layering, temperature, care and what's best for baby. If you're unsure about how to layer merino or which item is best, read on for some of the most common questions from our customers. We answer these to help you keep baby a good temperature all day and night.


Temperature - What merino styles are best at what temperature?

I got the fleece onesie. What temperature would you wear with a woolbabe 3 Seasons sleeping bag? Vs just a merino zipsuit?

I’d say use the fleece onesie with the 3 seasons around 18-20 degrees or cooler. The zipsuit you could use more around 20-22 degrees. IN saying this you could use the zipsuit in cooler temps too, just pop a bodysuit under etc

What temps would you use a fleece onesie or zipsuit with a 2 layer merino sleeping bag?

A merino fleece onesie is equivalent to approx. 2-3 layers of normal nightwear, so under a double layer merino sleeping bag I’d use a fleece onesie if cold temps. A merino zipsuit would be suitable for mild temperatures under a double layer sleeping bag, and just add layers under if it gets cooler (long sleeve bodysuit etc), or just by itself if warmer.

Is the merino fleece warmer than the standard merino suits? Are they suitable for all seasons?

Yes, the merino fleece onesies are definitely warmer! It is definitely designed for use over cooler months and temps. You’ll still get use over warmer months – for cooler evenings, cold snaps, camping etc! But you’ll find for sleeping you wouldn’t want/need layers on top of this in the warmer weather!


Layering - How should I layer merino?

Are several merino layers good for winter or same effect with just the layer against the skin?

We love merino layers in winter to keep bubs cosy. But if just one layer of merino, definitely the layer closest to the skin!

Would you put the merino fleece onesie under a duvet woolbabe in winter, or too hot?

The merino fleece onesies are warm (equivalent to about 2-3 layers normal nightwear). So you could put under the duvet weight Woolbabe in cold temperatures, but you wouldn’t need much else!

Have a new bub arriving in the thick of winter. What should I get?

Yes, duvet weight Woolbabe is a great sleeping bag for winter. The exact amount of layers you pop underneath depends on the room temp, but sounds cosy!

I’ve always put my little one in a cotton singlet then his merino. Should I just be using merino?

We always say where possible merino next to the skin as the first/base layer is best to get the best merno benefits. Cotton is a lovely natural fibre too – so there is no harm in that if you prefer!

Watch Lou give advice on layering with merino


What do the different knits mean?

What is the Deluxe Rib Knit?

In a nutshell means that it is very stretchy and comfortable fabric which fits nice and snug, perfect for keeping little ones cosy and warm. Like everything we do, we always have your little ones sleep in mind. Our Deluxe Rib Knit 100% Merino range is knitted exclusively for The Sleep Store and is Woolmark accredited. Our Rib Knit range is:

  • - Super stretchy for added comfort
  • - Has high fabric retention, which means it can stretch and spring back
  • - Creates air pockets between the rib knit for added warmth and moisture wicking
  • - Durable yet delicate makes it a great base layer for next to skin basics and layering. Think under sleeping bags and swaddles
  • - Is equally as soft on both sides

What is Double Faced merino?

As part of The Sleep Store merino for 2021 we’ve got some new stripes! Our stripe merino is double faced which means the back and the front of the fabric look identical with each side equally as lovely and soft. With high moisture wicking properties and structural air pockets for warmth it is another perfect addition to your merino collection. Our new Stripes range is coming in Zip Suits, Baby Gowns, Swaddle Blankets and midweight merino sleeping bags!


Fleece - What is Merino Fleece?

Is the merino fleece warmer than the standard merino suits? Are they suitable for all seasons?

Yes, the merino fleece onesies are definitely warmer! It is definitely designed for use over cooler months and temps. You’ll still get use over warmer months – for cooler evenings, cold snaps, camping etc! But you’ll find for sleeping you wouldn’t want/need layers on top of this in the warmer weather!

What temps would you use a fleece onesie or zipsuit with a 2 layer merino sleeping bag?

A merino fleece onesie is equivalent to approx. 2-3 layers of normal nightwear, so under a double layer merino sleeping bag I’d use a fleece onesie if cold temps. A merino zipsuit would be suitable for mild temperatures under a double layer sleeping bag, and just add layers under if it gets cooler (long sleeve bodysuit etc), or just by itself if warmer.


Care - How should I take care of my baby's merino?

Will it be okay my merino accidentally makes it into a normal wash (vs. a gentle wool wash)?

We’d always recommend a gentle wash, and using a liquid wool wash.

How to I get stains out of merino garments?

It's important not to use any bleach based products or napisan type products on your merino as this can cause holes. Use only a gentle wool wash. Soaking merino can also make it susceptible to holes. We recommended rinsing stains as soon as possibly and then washing on a gentle wool cycle. If needed you can use sard wonder soap on the stain.

We also recommend washing merino in a wash bag or on it's own cycle to avoid other clothing with zips as these can catch on delicate merino.

Watch Lou discuss how to care for your merino garments


Recommendations - The Sleep Store's Top Tips for Merino

I have a new bub arriving in the thick of winter. What should I get?

Congratulations! Personally in regards to merino I’d go with merino long sleeve bodysuits, merino baby gown or zipsuits, Swaddle or sleeping bag for your outer layer depending if you’re planning to swaddle or not.

Do you have a chart on layers for different temperatures and fabrics? I don’t want to cook my boys.

We don’t have anything at the moment specifically for our Sleep Store merino, we’re looking at creating something, but as long as you’re using merino and natural fibres and checking your little ones often, you’ll be fine. You’ve got this!

For a winter newborn would you put a merino swaddle on top of a merino onesie or too much?

Yes, absolutely. The layers under the swaddle would always depend on the room temperature, and always check bubs, but for winter this would be cosy.

Miss 4 is a VERY hot sleeper and sweats. What do you suggest for winter? We have Sleep Store PJ’s.

Merino is great as it absorbs 30% of its weight in moisture! For a 4 year old I’d suggest light layers, something like a zipsuit or merino pyjamas and make sure bedding is natural fibers – wool duvet inner.

The other great option for a 4 hear old who runs warm would be a 3-Seasons Woolbabe Sleeping suit. Perfect for warm sleepers and no blankets needed. Can wear as is, or with light layer underneath.

What would you say is the best essential merino item for a new mum to get for winter….bubs is 9 weeks?

Oh, that is tricky! If you were just getting one item I’d personally go with a long sleeve merino bodysuit. You can layer on top of it, wear under a swaddle and having that merino layer next to the skin will keep bubs cosy. Other fab newborn items are the merino fitted zip swaddle or merino swaddle blanket and the newborn gowns.

Would you use a deluxe swaddle blanket year round or will it be too hot in summer?

Yes, I would. It’s 100% merino so lovely breathable fabric. I’d just dress bubs accordingly underneath depending on the temp – less in warmer months, more layers in winter. Also, it’s great to use as a blanket in the pram, cosy cuddles on the couch etc too!

What do you recommend for winter essentials from the merino range?

Depends on bubs age, but for 6-12 months I’d definitely recommend a long sleeve bodysuits, a zipsuit and sleeping bag or sleeping suit (The Sleep Store or Woolbabe brand).

Merino PJs (2 piece), or zip suit for a 1 year old? What’s easier?

Personally, for this age I’d go the Zipsuit. I’ve still got my 1.5 year old in a zipsuit under her sleeping bag and it’s super cosy and easy!


Get the latest merino style info from Lou

Watch Lou present the latest merino styles from The Sleep Store

Watch Lou showcase our gorgeous merino colours for 2021


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