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Best cashmere pieces for children and babies

Nothing beats the soft touch of cashmere against your skin.

The cosiness and the warmth make everything from thick jumpers to comforting rugs a really lovely part of a child’s nursery.

Of course, such indulgences are going to come at a certain price but a cuddle from a cashmere-covered baby is worth it.

Before you splash out on a snuggle-worthy piece, here are a few things you should know about one of the finest natural fibres around.

What is cashmere?

Cashmere is a type of wool that is made from the soft undercoats of cashmere goats. Despite being significantly lighter, the material is eight times warmer than sheep’s wool and doesn’t irritate the skin. It’s also stronger and more durable than other fabrics. If cleaned and cared for properly, cashmere can last for many years to come.

Why is cashmere expensive?

Cashmere products are pricey because of the way the material is produced. On average, a cashmere goat generates only a little over 100 grams of cashmere fibre each year – meaning it is made in limited quantities. It can take more than two cashmere goats to produce a single sweater, so you should expect a hefty price tag if you are after good quality cashmere.

From toys to lounge sets, there are plenty of cashmere pieces for babies and children to suit all budgets. Here are our top picks.

The White Company Cashmere Panda Jumper

Comprised of 100 per cent cashmere, this grey panda jumper is just as cosy as it is adorable. Perhaps best for very small babies, the soft-touch piece is delightfully gender-neutral and versatile. The best part? The White Company offers a special pill comb to use on their cashmere to keep it looking in tip-top condition.

£125 | The White Company | Buy it now

Brora Cashmere Pom Pom hat

This cable-knit hat made from two-ply Scottish cashmere is a winter must-have for fussy children who hate having their heads covered, thanks to being so soft and light. Ours stayed on for an entire park visit – a first for a certain wilful one-year-old. Although there are three colour-ways to choose from, we plumped for the Winter White, simply because when worn, children resemble elfin snowflakes – and there’s nothing better than that during the big freeze. Brora recommend hand washing – but because it belongs on heads, unwanted spillages are hopefully going to be minimal.

£59 | Brora | Buy it now

Cashmere Heart Intarsia Cardigan

Available for children up to 12 years of age, this cardigan manages to be both brilliantly playful for babies and toddlers but also chic for older wearers (we would wager that a petit woman could fit into the 12-year-old sizes – it certainly crossed our minds). It is 100 per cent cashmere, encompassing all the delicacy you’d expect and yet with a definite sturdiness that makes for warmth and durability. Expect constant compliments from strangers – who will invariably go into orbit when they find out there is a wealth of other colour-ways to explore too.

£171 | Cashmirino | Buy it now

Huge, versatile blanket

These blankets are all handmade in Kashmir, meaning each one is completely unique – making them really special gifts. They are absolutely whopping – 130 x 180cm - but we find the large size makes them a versatile addition to any nursery. Folded as the softest mattress topper for Moses baskets or spread out as an ultra-lux play mat, it’s one of those items that very quickly move from a luxury to an essential item. We found ours to be a real lifesaver as a pushchair blanket during the recent cold snap.

£175 | Zanula | Buy it now

Bunny comforter

Cuddling a comforter can be a vital part of getting a baby to settle themselves to sleep. A cashmere version is surely nothing short of a slice of heaven for a baby: who wouldn’t want to drift off to the Land of Nod with their cheeks nuzzled against something so soft? These make for a great gift idea because unlike clothes, babies can’t grow out of these and the quality of the materials mean this little bunny is likely to journey through childhood without too much in the way of wear and tear.

£55 | Purl English | Buy it now

Givenchy Kids Star Intarsia Knit Dress

This might be only 30 per cent cashmere, but it’s still super-soft against young skin. This dress is so special because it manages to be grown-up – the knitted logo is a fun nod to high fashion - without suggesting that little girls should dress beyond their years. Worn with Mary-Janes and thick tights – it’s perfect for Christmas Day or winter parties.

£320 | Farfetch | Buy it now

Basil Cashmere Romper

There is nothing cuter than babies in rompers, which might go some way to explain the enduring popularity of what is now considered a vintage style. This cheery duck egg option is not only as warm and soft as you’d expect from 100 per cent cashmere, but wonderfully pliable too making it easy for wriggly little people to move around in. Almost best of all is the gender-neutral Rust shade – a rich yellow hue that complements the Liberty print collection perfectly.

From £54 | Olivier Baby | Buy it now

Zara Girl’s Cashmere Sweater

Zara has an adorable selection of cashmere clothing for young children. Our top pick? This mauve-coloured girl’s sweater that comes in fives sizes from 6 months up to 3 years. With the winter season almost upon us, the round neck design should keep her feeling cosy and at the same time stylish.

£34.99 | Zara | Buy it now

Burberry Mini Classic Cashmere Scarf with Archive Logo

A mini version of Burberry’s iconic check piece, this snuggly scarf will bring a bit of luxury into any child’s wardrobe. We particularly love how the multi-coloured lettering adds a playful touch to the classic design. Since it is made of 100 per cent cashmere, you can expect a sumptuously soft feel against the neck which is just the ticket for those with delicate skin.

£230 | Burberry | Buy it now

Harrods of London Cable Knit Cashmere Leggings

Comfort and luxury go hand in hand with these cable knit leggings from the Harrods of London range. The baby trousers are made extra comfortable by super-soft pure cashmere and an elasticated waistband, making them ideal for cosy days indoors. They can also be paired with a matching cardigan and beanie hat to create a wonderfully winter-proof ensemble. Choose from four sizes from 0 to 18 months.

£89.95 | Harrods | Buy it now

Marie-Chantal Mittens

Keep your little one’s hands toasty with these adorable mittens by Marie-Chantal. The pure cashmere pieces are adorned with the brand’s signature crown and star in gold lurex and come in one size only.

£59 | Marie-Chantal | Buy it now

Brora Cashmere Baby Blanket

With a range of designs available, including stripes and checks, this super soft blanket is perfect for keeping newborns snug and warm. It is composed of 100 per cent Scottish cashmere and can be dry cleaned only.

£169 | Brora | Buy it now