Wool vs Cashmere

Wool comes from sheep fleece, and cashmere comes from the fine undercoat of cashmere goats. Under the US labeling rules, cashmere must average no more than 19 microns across, with no more than 3 percent of fibers over 30 microns. Merino wool, the finest sheep wool, runs about 12 to 24 microns, so the two overlap in fineness.

Price and handling differ more than fineness. A cashmere goat gives about 150 grams of fiber a year, which keeps supply small and the market a luxury one. Wool is far more available, comes in machine-washable Superwash form, and has useful safety traits such as not melting or dripping when it burns.

Wool vs Cashmere side by side

Last verified October 2026. Typical values; individual animals, products and local prices vary.

Which one fits you

Wool

• You want a sweater or blanket that gives good warmth at a fair price.
• You need a machine-washable option, so Superwash wool is an advantage.
• The item will see heavy use, such as outerwear, socks or rugs.
• You want a wool that is fire-resistant and does not melt, for example a rug or workwear.

Cashmere

• You want an extremely fine, soft layer and are willing to pay a luxury price.
• You are sensitive to scratchy fibers and want something near 19 microns or finer.
• The garment will be handled gently, such as a scarf or light sweater.
• You value a natural fiber that adapts to warm and cool conditions.

How this works

The quiz asks about budget, skin sensitivity, washing, use and flame behavior. Each answer favors the fiber most associated with that cue, and the note under each question names both so you can see the reasoning, including which cues are weaker or overlap.

Fabric quality depends on grade, blend and knit, and some cashmere care details are not covered in the sources used here. Treat the result as a starting point, and check the care label, the fiber content and the feel in person before buying.

Where these numbers come from

The figures and defaults on this page are based on:

• Wikipedia: Wool, Wool fiber diameter, absorbency, flame behavior, Superwash and itch. (checked October 2026)
• Wikipedia: Cashmere wool, Cashmere source, undercoat, 19-micron rule and yield per goat. (checked October 2026)
• Federal Trade Commission: Cachet of Cashmere, US cashmere labeling limits of 19 microns and 3% over 30 microns. (checked October 2026)

Fabric comparison for general guidance. Check the care label of the specific item.