Linen or wool throw: which should you choose?

Linen and wool throws can look similar draped over a sofa, but they feel very different to live with. If you're deciding between them, the short answer is this: choose wool for warmth, and linen for a lighter, breathable throw you can use all year round. Many people end up with one of each.

Which is warmer, linen or wool?

Wool is much warmer. Its fibres are naturally crimped, trapping air and holding in heat, which is why a wool throw is so cosy on a winter evening. Linen, made from the fibres of the flax plant, is breathable and feels cool to the touch, so it's comfortable in warmer weather and in centrally heated rooms.

Fuchsia pink herringbone wool throw with an orange edge, woven in Ireland

How do they feel?

Wool throws are thicker and heavier, with a soft, springy handle. Merino lambswool is especially soft. Linen throws are lighter, with a crisp, natural texture that softens with use. Linen also has a relaxed, slightly creased look that's part of its charm.

Pink Irish linen throw on a white sofa with scatter cushions

Which is best for each season and room?

Autumn and winter, living rooms and bedrooms: wool or merino lambswool.
Spring and summer, conservatories, garden chairs and warm homes: linen.
All year round: linen works as a light layer in every season, while wool is at its best when the weather turns cold.

How do they look?

Both work beautifully as a splash of colour. Our Irish wool throws come in classic herringbone and bold check weaves, many with contrasting tassels and coloured edges. Our Irish linen throws have a fine herringbone weave and tasselled edges, and come in pink, Sahara orange and turquoise.

How do you care for them?

All our throws, wool and linen, should be dry cleaned only. Between cleans, airing them outdoors on a dry day keeps them fresh. See our care guide for more.

Our Irish linen and wool throws

All our Irish throws are woven on the West Coast of Ireland and measure 200 x 145 cm, large enough to drape over a sofa or lie across the foot of a double bed.

Irish linen throws: 100% linen, light and breathable.
Irish wool throws: warm herringbone wool in vibrant colours.
All Irish throws: wool, merino lambswool and linen together.

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