To begin, we need to differentiate between ‘wool’ and ‘cashmere.’
Wool comes from sheep. It can be coarse or fine (with gradients in between). Cashmere comes from goats, usually the finer, softer undercoat. It can be coarser or finer as well, but coarse cashmere is the same or slightly finer than fine wool. In other words, where wool hits its finest quality, cashmere is just beginning. Both fibres have tiny, microscopic scales on them too. Even the scales on cashmere are finer than those on wool – and the scales have a lot to do with how itchy a garment feels.
Think of each fibre like a long, thin file. As your body moves against the fibres, the scales can catch, which is the leading cause of skin irritation and a feeling of itchiness. The coarser (larger) the scales, the greater this effect becomes.
To make coarse wool less itchy, some companies treat the wool to remove scales or smooth them out. There are even after-purchase products that claim to do this. Be cautious though, as these treatments – both before and after purchase – can change the properties of the fabric, and are not always an improvement, despite reducing the itchiness factor.
If high-quality (fine fibre) cashmere is processed correctly; it should not feel itchy against the skin (unless the wearer has extremely sensitive or irritable skin). All fibres used in such garments should be the fine undercoat fibres; no course outer-coat fibres should be used.
Wool fibres used in clothing are commonly about 26 microns in diameter, compared to cashmere’s average of 14 microns.
If quality cashmere clothing still makes you itchy, you might want to check if you have anallergy to wool, cashmere, or lanolin (the substance that makes up hair structure).
We only use 100% high-quality cashmere in our clothing, and you will notice the difference.
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FAQs
Even the scales on cashmere are finer than those on wool – and the scales have a lot to do with how itchy a garment feels. Think of each fibre like a long, thin file. As your body moves against the fibres, the scales can catch, which is the leading cause of skin irritation and a feeling of itchiness.
Why does cashmere make me itch? ›
Lower quality cashmere may have shorter fibers, which can be prickly and cause irritation. The weave of the fabric is also a factor in the itchiness of cashmere. A tight weave will make the material less itchy as it reduces the chances of the fibers rubbing against the skin.
Why are wool jumpers itchy? ›
Wool fibers have a scaly surface and which can lead to irritation when it comes in contact with skin. It all boils down to the strength of the fiber. Thick, stiff fibers do not bend, which leads to itching and irritation. The average thickness of normal virgin wool is around 37-40 micrometers.
Is there a way to make cashmere less itchy? ›
How to Make an Annoying Itchy Sweater Less Itchy
- Turn the perpetrator inside out and soak it in cold water and a few tablespoons of white vinegar for 15 minutes, making sure that all the fibers are thoroughly saturated. ...
- While the sweater is still wet, gently massage a generous amount of hair conditioner into the fibers.
Is cashmere itchy? Cashmere is considered to be far less itchy than other wools. Cashmere does not contain lanolin, so it's an entirely hypoallergenic alternative to merino and other fibres. However, cashmere is a natural yarn and this can cause mild irritation for some people.
What fabric is better than cashmere? ›
Yak wool, AKA “khullu” is not only a cashmere alternative because it's similarly soft and comfy to wear all the time. Khullu is also considered an alternative because it's more sustainable, breathable, durable, and warmer than cashmere.
What do you wear under itchy wool? ›
Simply wear a turtleneck, long sleeve, blouse, tank top or even a dress underneath and you're good to go.
Is 100% wool always itchy? ›
As a general rule, the larger the diameter of the wool strands, the lower the quality and the itchier it will feel. Wool with smaller strands will feel softer. Many wool producers use cheap wool to lower product costs, but cheaper wool with thick fibers is often responsible for itching.
What is the best non itchy wool? ›
Wool yarn that doesn't itch
- Merino wool yarn.
- Alpaca wool yarn.
So you can wash it regularly, even often, as long as you respect certain rules. For, though cashmere fibres don't mind water, they only like it cold! Your wash water should never be warmer than 20°C (68°F), otherwise you risk damaging the sweater.
A dash of white vinegar in the rinsing water can also act as a natural softener. You can also add a tiny amount of vinegar in the washing process to help the detergent to lather if you live in a hard water area. Will cashmere shrink if washed? Only if you use hot water at any point in the process.
Does cashmere get softer the more you wear it? ›
High-quality, felted cashmere is a worthy investment, as it outlasts many other fabrics, and is not only softer but warmer as you wear it more often. The more you wear and care for your cashmere, the better it becomes, hence we recommend you not discard your cashmere products after just one season of use.
Can people with sensitive skin wear cashmere? ›
Common natural fibres well suited to those with sensitive skin include silk, cashmere, cotton and fine merino. These fibres can all be sourced with a low micron count, making them soft to the touch. They also have breathability and absorbency in common, making them practical and comfortable for sensitive skin.
Which is itchier, merino or cashmere? ›
Merino Wool: Less itchy compared to traditional wool due to finer fibers. However, some individuals with sensitive skin might still find it slightly itchy. Cashmere: Rarely itchy, as the fibers are extremely fine and soft. It's often preferred for direct skin contact, especially by those with sensitive skin.
Is cashmere bad for your skin? ›
Some sheep wool can be a little itchy, to some people more than others, but you'll never hear anyone complaining about an uncomfortable cashmere sweater. It can be worn against the skin quite readily – in fact, there are companies who make cashmere underwear for those who love its silky feel.
Is cashmere allergy friendly? ›
Hypoallergenic Properties - Cashmere has hypoallergenic properties, which means a low-risk of developing skin allergies. If your baby suffers from skin allergies or eczema, you may want to choose our cashmere baby bodysuits.
