Cashmere and wool are often confused due to their similarities, but they have distinct differences that are important to understand.
While both fibers come from animals and provide warmth, cashmere is derived from the undercoat of cashmere goats, and wool comes from sheep. These differences affect their texture, warmth, price, and care requirements.
In this post, we will explore whether cashmere is a type of wool, breaking down the key distinctions between these two luxurious materials. By understanding these differences, you can make informed decisions when choosing garments.
Whether you’re looking for soft comfort or durability, this guide will help you navigate the world of cashmere and wool with ease.
What Is Cashmere?
Cashmere is a high-quality fiber derived from the undercoat of cashmere goats, primarily found in the cold climates of Mongolia, China, and India. These goats grow a fine, soft layer of undercoat during the colder months, which helps keep them warm.
This fine undercoat is collected during the spring molt by skilled laborers, making cashmere a rare and highly prized material.
The softness of cashmere is one of its most distinguishing features. Unlike other fabrics, cashmere feels exceptionally smooth and luxurious against the skin, making it a top choice for premium garments like sweaters, scarves, and blankets.
However, due to the labor-intensive collection process and its limited supply, cashmere can be quite expensive.
What Is Wool?
Wool, in contrast, is a versatile fiber derived from the fleece of sheep. It has been used for thousands of years due to its insulating properties, making it ideal for colder climates.
Wool comes in various types, including merino wool, lamb’s wool, and sheeps wool, with merino being one of the softest and most popular varieties. Wool is sheared from sheep once a year, with the fleece removed in one large piece.
While wool is thicker and coarser than cashmere, it remains a durable and highly insulating fabric. It is commonly used in a wide range of clothing items, from everyday sweaters to outerwear and blankets.
7 Key Differences Between Cashmere and Wool
While both cashmere and wool come from animals and offer excellent warmth and insulation, they are distinct fibers in several ways. Below, we explore the most significant differences between cashmere and wool.
1. Source of the Fiber
- Cashmere: The fiber comes from cashmere goats, which are primarily found in cold regions like Mongolia, China, and India. The undercoat of these goats is combed out during the spring, producing cashmere fibers.
- Wool: Wool is obtained from the fleece of sheep. The fleece is sheared once a year, providing a renewable source of fiber.
The difference in animal sources directly impacts the texture and characteristics of the fibers. Cashmere is much finer than wool and has a smoother feel.
2. Collection Process
- Cashmere: The process of collecting cashmere is intricate and labor-intensive. The soft undercoat of the goat is carefully combed out by hand during the animal’s natural shedding period in spring. This process ensures that only the finest fibers are collected.
- Wool: Wool is collected by shearing sheep, usually once a year. The fleece is removed in one piece and sent to be cleaned and processed into various yarns and fabrics.
Cashmere’s collection method is more delicate and time-consuming, which is one reason why it’s more expensive than wool.
3. Fiber Characteristics
- Cashmere: Cashmere fibers are significantly finer than wool. They typically range from 12 to 19 microns in diameter. The fine, soft fibers contribute to the fabric’s luxurious feel and superior warmth-to-weight ratio.
- Wool: Wool fibers are generally thicker and more coarse compared to cashmere. The thickness of wool fibers can vary, with some types being as thick as 30 microns in diameter.
Cashmere’s finer fibers allow it to be both lightweight and highly insulating, which is one of the reasons it’s favored for lightweight winter garments.
4. Warmth and Insulation
- Cashmere: One of the key features of cashmere is its exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio. Cashmere provides more warmth than wool for the same weight, which is why it is often used in lighter winter garments like sweaters and scarves. Despite its softness, cashmere fibers trap heat efficiently.
- Wool: Wool also has great insulating properties, though it tends to be bulkier than cashmere. Wool’s natural crimp creates air pockets that help retain heat, but it can be heavier compared to cashmere.
Both materials offer excellent warmth, but cashmere excels when it comes to warmth without the weight.
5. Softness and Feel
- Cashmere: The softness of cashmere is its most distinguishing quality. Cashmere fibers are fine and smooth, which contributes to their luxurious feel. This makes cashmere an ideal choice for garments worn close to the skin, such as sweaters and scarves.
- Wool: Wool can feel rougher, especially if it is made from coarser breeds of sheep. However, finer types of wool, like merino wool, are softer than traditional wool. Even with finer varieties, wool doesn’t quite match the softness of cashmere.
For a truly smooth, irritation-free garment, cashmere is the clear winner.
6. Price Comparison
- Cashmere: Due to the labor-intensive process required to harvest the fibers and the limited supply, cashmere is significantly more expensive than wool. Cashmere garments are often seen as luxury items.
- Wool: Wool is much more affordable than cashmere, making it a more accessible choice for everyday wear. It is also produced in larger quantities, making it more widely available.
While cashmere’s higher price reflects its rarity and quality, wool remains a budget-friendly option that still offers excellent value for money.
7. Durability
- Cashmere: Despite its softness, cashmere is relatively delicate compared to wool. It is more prone to pilling and may lose its shape over time if not cared for properly. Cashmere garments require careful handling, including hand washing or delicate machine cycles.
- Wool: Wool is far more durable than cashmere. It is resistant to pilling, stretching, and sagging, making it ideal for garments subjected to heavy use. Wool also tends to maintain its shape better over time, making it suitable for active wear.
When considering durability, wool outperforms cashmere, especially for everyday use.
Caring for Cashmere and Wool Garments
Proper care is crucial to extend the lifespan of both cashmere and wool garments. Each fiber requires specific attention to maintain its quality and appearance.
How to Care for Cashmere
- Hand Wash: Cashmere should be washed by hand in cold water using a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can damage the fibers.
- Dry Flat: Lay cashmere garments flat to dry, as hanging can stretch the fabric out of shape.
- Storage: Store cashmere in a cool, dry place. Use a garment bag or place moth-repellent sachets in the storage area to protect against pests.
How to Care for Wool
- Gentle Wash: Wool should be washed in cold water using a wool-specific detergent. Many wool garments can be machine-washed, but it’s essential to check the care instructions.
- Air Dry: Wool should be air-dried flat, away from direct heat or sunlight, to prevent shrinkage and preserve its shape.
- Moth Protection: Wool is more susceptible to damage from moths. Consider using cedar or lavender sachets in your wardrobe to protect your wool garments.
Is Cashmere Wool?
Technically, cashmere is a type of wool because it comes from an animal fiber. However, it is distinct from traditional wool due to its origin, texture, and other qualities.
Wool typically refers to fibers from sheep, while cashmere is harvested from cashmere goats. Cashmere’s finer texture, lighter weight, and superior softness make it a more luxurious fabric compared to standard wool.
In conclusion, while cashmere is technically a form of wool, it is considered a premium fiber due to its unique properties.
The decision to choose between cashmere and wool ultimately depends on your specific needs, including budget, warmth, durability, and softness.
FAQs
Does cashmere shrink like wool?
Cashmere can shrink if exposed to high heat or agitation. However, it’s less prone to shrinkage compared to untreated wool, especially if hand washed properly.
Is cashmere hypoallergenic?
Yes, cashmere is naturally hypoallergenic and less likely to irritate sensitive skin compared to coarser types of wool.
Why is some cashmere itchy?
Lower-grade cashmere or blends with other fibers can feel itchy. Pure, high-quality cashmere is usually very soft and comfortable on the skin.
Can wool be blended with cashmere?
Yes. Many garments combine wool and cashmere to balance softness, warmth, durability, and price.
Final Thoughts: Which Fabric Should You Choose?
Choosing between cashmere and wool depends on personal preference and the intended use of the garment. For those seeking ultra-softness, warmth without the bulk, and a luxurious feel, cashmere is the perfect option.
However, for everyday wear that provides durability and insulation at a more affordable price, wool is an excellent choice.
When purchasing either material, it’s essential to consider factors such as the garment’s intended use, budget, and care requirements.
Understanding the key differences between cashmere and wool will help you make a well-informed decision when shopping for garments.