Cashmere vs Merino: Which Is Warmer, Softer and Better Value?

The short answer

Cashmere is softer and warmer for its weight; merino is tougher, easier to care for and better value. Choose cashmere for a luxurious jumper you will wear on cold days and treat gently. Choose merino for everyday knitwear, base layers, travel and anything that gets washed often.

Both are animal fibres I have worked with for years in dyeing and fabric development. Here is how they compare side by side.

Where they come from

• Cashmere comes from the fine undercoat of cashmere goats, mainly in Inner Mongolia and Mongolia. It is combed out once a year, and each goat gives only a small amount.
• Merino comes from merino sheep, sheared once a year. Australia is the world’s largest producer of fine merino.

Side-by-side comparison

Feature	Cashmere	Merino
Fibre fineness	About 14–19 microns	About 15–24 microns (superfine 15.5–18.5)
Softness	Exceptionally soft, fluffy	Soft and smooth in fine grades
Warmth for weight	Higher	High
Breathability	Good	Excellent
Odour resistance	Good	Excellent
Durability	Delicate; pills more	Tougher; pills less
Care	Hand wash, dry flat	Often machine washable on a wool cycle
Price	Higher	Lower to medium
Best for	Luxury jumpers, scarves, wraps	Everyday knits, base layers, travel, socks

Which should you choose?

• For the softest, warmest jumper on cold days: cashmere.
• For a jumper you will wear several times a week: merino.
• For sensitive skin: both are soft if fine; cashmere is the gentlest.
• For travel and active days: merino, for odour resistance and durability.
• For a gift: cashmere feels more luxurious; merino is the more practical present.

For a deeper look at each fibre, read our cashmere sweater quality guide and merino wool guide.

Caring for both

Wash cool on a wool cycle or by hand with a wool detergent, press water out in a towel, and dry flat. Fold knitwear rather than hanging it. Store clean with cedar or lavender to deter moths. Remove pills gently with a cashmere comb.

Frequently asked questions

Is cashmere warmer than merino?

Yes, weight for weight. Merino is still very warm and handles sweat better when you are active.

Which lasts longer, cashmere or merino?

Merino usually lasts longer and pills less, because its fibres are longer and tougher.

Is a cashmere-merino blend worth it?

Yes, blends such as 70% merino and 30% cashmere combine merino’s durability with extra softness at a lower price than pure cashmere.