When it comes to luxury knitwear, cashmere is often regarded as the crème de la crème of fabrics. However, within the realm of cashmere, there exists a distinction that elevates the experience of softness and luxury to an entirely new level: baby cashmere. In this blog, we will delve into the differences between baby cashmere and regular cashmere, exploring what sets them apart and why baby cashmere is considered the pinnacle of opulence.
Cashmere is a type of wool obtained from the undercoat of cashmere goats, primarily found in regions such as Mongolia, China, and Nepal. The fibres are known for their exceptional softness, warmth, and lightweight nature, making cashmere garments highly sought after. Regular cashmere is already a symbol of luxury, but baby cashmere takes this to an even higher echelon.
Baby cashmere is derived from the undercoat of Hircus goats, specifically from the first combing of the kid goats, typically when they are around six months old. This initial combing yields the finest and softest fibres, which are incredibly delicate and rare. Each kid goat produces only about 30 grams of baby cashmere, making it an exclusive and precious material.
One of the primary differences between baby cashmere and regular cashmere lies in the diameter of the fibres. Baby cashmere fibres are finer, with an average diameter of around 13-14 microns, compared to regular cashmere, which ranges from 15-19 microns. This finer diameter contributes to the unparalleled softness and smoothness of baby cashmere, providing a luxurious feel against the skin that is unmatched by regular cashmere.
Both baby cashmere and regular cashmere are renowned for their excellent warmth and insulation properties. However, due to the finer fibres, baby cashmere offers a slightly higher level of insulation, making it exceptionally warm and cosy. This makes baby cashmere garments ideal for those chilly winter days when you want to wrap yourself in the ultimate comfort.
While baby cashmere is incredibly soft and luxurious, it is also more delicate than regular cashmere. The finer fibres are more susceptible to wear and tear, meaning that baby cashmere garments require extra care and attention to maintain their pristine condition. Regular cashmere, with its slightly coarser fibres, tends to be more durable and resilient, making it a more practical choice for everyday wear.
The rarity and exclusivity of baby cashmere come at a premium price. Due to the limited supply and the meticulous process of harvesting the fibres, baby cashmere garments are significantly more expensive than their regular cashmere counterparts. This exclusivity adds to the allure of baby cashmere, making it a coveted choice for those who seek the finest in luxury knitwear.
Both baby cashmere and regular cashmere require careful handling to preserve their quality. Hand washing with a gentle detergent or dry cleaning is recommended to maintain the softness and integrity of the fibres. Additionally, storing cashmere garments in a cool, dry place and using moth repellents can help protect them from damage.
While both baby cashmere and regular cashmere offer exceptional softness, warmth, and luxury, baby cashmere stands out for its unparalleled delicacy and exclusivity. The finer fibres, superior insulation, and rarity of baby cashmere make it the ultimate choice for those who desire the pinnacle of opulence in their knitwear. However, regular cashmere remains a highly desirable and practical option, offering durability and luxury at a more accessible price point.
Whether you choose baby cashmere or regular cashmere, you are investing in a timeless piece of luxury that will provide warmth, comfort, and elegance for years to come.
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