Cork cells contain a waxy, rubbery substance called Suberin which strongly repels water. Because of Suberin, water cannot penetrate into the cells of cork bark, making cork products water-resistant, and preventing the growth of mold, mildew, and moisture. This also gives cork anti-allergenic properties.

Cork is the outer bark of the Cork Oak tree. Cork is easily stripped from the tree from May to August by skilled cork harvesters, and the tree itself is not harmed in any way. The tree forms new protective layers of cork quickly after its bark is removed. And the best part- stripping the cork bark is actually beneficial to the health of the tree.

The roots of the cork oak create watersheds and absorb nutrients. This is why cork oaks prevent against soil erosion. The acorns which grow on cork oaks provide food for countless endangered animal species. The cork forests are among the most important ecosystems in the world, second only to the Amazon rainforest.