What is mulesing? And why do you want your wool to be 100% free of it?
Yes, dear people — today we are going to talk about mulesing. Not a pleasant topic, but one you need to know about if you wear wool. Because if you, like me, can't live without a nice wool sweater or leggings in the winter, you surely want to be certain that your wool was produced without animal suffering. Right?
What is mulesing, actually?
Glad you asked. Mulesing is a practice in which a piece of skin around the hindquarters of young merino sheep is cut away. Without anesthesia. Yes, you read that right. The idea behind it is to prevent maggot infestations (because those nasty creatures love warm, damp spots in skin folds). But just because something is "convenient" doesn't mean it's humane. Because it is painful, traumatic, and completely unnecessary if you take good care of your animals.
So why does it still happen?
Because it's cheap. Because some wool farms prefer cutting to truly investing in animal health. And because many people don't know it happens. That makes us feel sick to our stomachs. Did you know that 80% of the merino wool sold worldwide is NOT mulesing-free?
Is all merino wool bad news?
Oh no! Thankfully not. There are more and more wool producers (ours included!) who consciously choose mulesing-free wool. For example, by keeping other sheep breeds, by shearing sheep in an animal-friendly way, or simply by taking better care of their animals. And yes: that is more expensive. But it is also a whole lot kinder to our beloved sheep.
How do you know if wool is mulesing-free?
Actually, this isn't very difficult. Pay close attention to quality labels, and be wary of vague claims. At Natur-el, we only sell brands that use 100% mulesing-free wool. Many of our products are also certified with labels such as GOTS, IVN BEST, RWS, or KbT. These not only say something about the environment but also about animal welfare.
Brands such as Engel Natur, Living Crafts, Hirsch Natur, and Hocosa work exclusively with organic or strictly controlled wool. No mulesing, no hidden misery. Just soft, warm, and sustainable clothing that you can wear with a clear conscience. Did you know that you can filter by quality labels in our webshop?
Why do we choose only mulesing-free wool?
Because it is simply better. For the animal, for the world, and for your peace of mind. Because let's be honest: a wool onesie, sweater, or sock feels so much better when you know it didn't cause any suffering. We may not be a pet store, but animal welfare is part of sustainability. Period.
In summary: how to recognize mulesing-free clothing
- Look for quality labels like GOTS, RWS, IVN BEST, and KbT
- Check if the brand states it is mulesing-free or “cruelty free”
- Avoid cheap merino wool without clear origin information
- Buy from shops that explain honestly where their wool comes from (like us!)
- Do not accept a vague "green" label. Ask for details!
Do you have any questions?
Are you unsure about a label, brand, or certification? Just give us a call or send an email to klantenservice@natur-el.nl. Or come visit our store in Rotterdam — we would love to tell you what you are buying. Because for us, sustainable also means: honest. For you and for the sheep.
Frequently asked questions about mulesing and animal-friendly wool
What is mulesing exactly?
Mulesing is a painful procedure where a piece of skin around the hindquarters of merino sheep is cut away — often without anesthesia. It is done to prevent maggot infestations, but it is intensely cruel to animals and completely unnecessary if you take proper care of sheep.
Is all merino wool mulesing-free?
Unfortunately not. Merino wool sounds luxurious, but it says nothing about animal welfare. Only when a brand specifically states that the wool is mulesing-free (and supports this with a label such as GOTS, RWS, or KbT), do you know you are making a good choice.
Which labels stand for mulesing-free wool?
The most important ones are: GOTS, IVN BEST, RWS (Responsible Wool Standard), and KbT (organic animal husbandry). These labels check not only wool quality but also animal welfare and production conditions.
Where can I buy mulesing-free clothing?
At Natur-el, of course! We only sell wool from brands that do not practice mulesing, such as Engel Natur, Hirsch Natur, Living Crafts, and Armedangels. Everything you buy from us is honest, soft, and free of animal suffering.
Why should I pay extra for mulesing-free wool?
Because it feels good. You are wearing clothing that hasn't hurt anyone. No hidden suffering, no crisis of conscience. And honestly? Mulesing-free wool is often just softer, stronger, and more beautiful. More sustainable on all fronts.
