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Continue ShoppingRecycled Wool vs Pure New Wool: Which Blanket Is Right for You?
Recycled Wool vs Pure New Wool: Which Blanket Is Right for You?
Choosing a wool blanket often comes down to a simple question: recycled or new wool? Both have genuine strengths, and neither is universally "better". This guide walks through the key differences so you can pick the one that suits your needs.
How They're Made
Pure new wool (also called virgin wool) comes directly from a sheep's fleece that has never been processed before. The fibres are long, intact, and uniform.
Recycled wool is made by shredding and re-spinning previously used wool garments or fabric offcuts. The recycling process shortens the fibre length compared to virgin wool. Fibre length has a knock-on effect on several performance characteristics — which is exactly what this guide covers.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Characteristic | Recycled Wool | Pure New Wool |
|---|---|---|
| Softness | Can feel slightly coarser due to shorter fibres; varies by blend and finishing | Generally softer against the skin; longer fibres lie flatter |
| Pilling | Shorter fibres can work loose more readily, increasing pilling over time | Longer fibres are more securely anchored; typically pills less |
| Weight | Often slightly heavier for an equivalent size due to fibre density in spinning | Weight varies by weave; tends to feel more consistent |
| Warmth | Retains good insulating properties; wool's natural crimp traps air regardless of fibre history | Excellent insulation; long fibres create an efficient air-trapping structure |
| Care | Hand wash or gentle machine wash cold; lay flat to dry | Hand wash or gentle machine wash cold; lay flat to dry |
| Price | Generally lower — recycling is less resource-intensive than producing virgin wool | Typically higher — reflects the full cost of farming and first-time processing |
Softness
Pure new wool fibres are long and smooth at the tip, which means they lie flat against skin and feel softer. Recycled wool fibres are shorter, and the cut ends can create a slightly rougher texture. That said, finishing processes — such as brushing or milling — can significantly improve the hand-feel of recycled wool. If next-to-skin softness is your top priority, pure new wool has an edge; if you're using the blanket as a throw over a sofa or bed, the difference is far less noticeable.
Pilling
Pilling happens when loose fibres tangle on the surface of a fabric. Short fibres are more likely to migrate out of the yarn structure, so recycled wool blankets may show more pilling — particularly in high-friction areas like the edges. This is a cosmetic issue rather than a structural one; a fabric comb or lint shaver restores the surface easily. Pure new wool pills less in normal use.
Weight & Warmth
Wool insulates by trapping air within its natural crimp. Both recycled and pure new wool retain this property. Warmth differences between the two are subtle and depend more on weave density and blanket weight than on whether the wool is recycled. A heavier blanket — recycled or new — will generally be warmer than a lighter one.
Care
Care requirements are effectively the same for both types: cool water, gentle agitation, and flat drying to prevent shrinkage and distortion. Always check the care label on your specific blanket.
Price
Recycled wool is typically more affordable. Processing reclaimed wool requires less raw material and energy than farming and first-time processing of virgin fleece, and those savings are usually reflected in the retail price. If budget is a consideration, recycled wool delivers strong value.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose pure new wool if: next-to-skin softness matters, you want the least likelihood of pilling, or you're buying a blanket as a long-term heirloom piece.
Choose recycled wool if: you want a great-value, warm, and characterful blanket for everyday use — on a sofa, at the foot of a bed, or for outdoor occasions.
Our Recycled Wool Blankets
If you'd like to explore recycled wool, here are two of our most popular options:
Large Checked Random Recycled Wool Blanket
A checked blanket in a mix of recycled wool colours. The random colouring means every blanket is unique. One of our consistently best-selling recycled wool pieces.
Chevron Recycled Wool Throw – Assorted Colours
A classic chevron-weave throw in assorted colour combinations. A super thick blanket great for adding a layer of warmth in a generous size.
Browse the full range in our Recycled Wool Throws collection.
Our Pure New Wool Blankets
Browse the full range in our Pure New Wool collection.
If you want extra-soft wool, then merino and lambswool could be for you! Our blog post: Which type of wool should I choose? – Wool Blanket Online will help you pick what's perfect for you.