Our wool

We shear our flock annually. Every summer we have wool to sell from our lambs, ewes and rams. Our flock is a mixed breed, meaning the wool we shear from our sheep is a mixture of textures, colours and lengths. At present Hidden Valley do not clean the wool that we produce. Our wool is sold raw in its natural form straight from our sheep meaning it retains its natural oils, lanolin, and other beneficial properties. 

Wool is a versatile product that is soft, warm, durable, hypoallergenic, and eco-friendly when produced organically. The most common use that comes to mind for wool is of course spinning the wool into yarn for knitted materials. However, wool can also be used for a range of other useful purposes. 

Raw wool can be used as insulation in buildings, as it has excellent thermal properties and can help regulate temperature and humidity. It can also be used for stuffing in pillows and cushions. Another unique use for raw wool is for stuffing pet beds, as it is hypoallergenic and naturally repels dust mites and other allergens. The options are endless. 

Our wool being organically grown is free from any synthetic chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides. Selling raw (unwashed wool) means the consumer can clean how they see fit and have wool that has not been cleaned with harsh toxic chemicals, that can be harmful to humans and the environment. These chemicals can also remain in the wool and affect the wearer.     

How to clean wool naturally

Cleaning raw wool naturally can be done through a process called "scouring", which removes dirt, grease, and other impurities from the wool fibers. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean raw wool naturally: 

1. Fill a large basin or sink with lukewarm water and add a gentle, natural detergent such as a mild soap or shampoo. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as these can damage the wool fibers. 

2. Gently place the raw wool into the water and let it soak for about 30 minutes to an hour, making sure that the wool is fully submerged. 

3. Drain the soapy water and gently squeeze out any excess water from the wool, being careful not to wring or twist the fibers, which can cause felting. 

4. Rinse the wool thoroughly with clean water until all the soap suds are gone. You may need to rinse the wool several times to ensure that all the soap has been removed. 

5. Once the wool is clean, gently squeeze out any excess water and lay it flat on a towel to dry. Do not hang the wool to dry, as this can cause stretching and distortion of the fibers. 

6. If the wool is still greasy or has a strong odor, you may need to repeat the scouring process. 

Note: It is important to handle raw wool gently to avoid felting and damaging the fibers. Additionally, it is recommended to wear gloves during the scouring process, as the natural oils in your hands can transfer to the wool and affect the final product.