You might not realize it, but animal hair is used in a variety of ways that you probably encounter on a daily basis. From the wool in your sweater to the bristles in your toothbrush, animal hair plays an important role in our lives.
Keep reading to learn more about some of the most popular uses for animal hair.
Animal Hair: More Useful Than You Might Think!
Depending on the type of animal, the quality of the hair, and where on the body it is located, animal hair has a wide variety of uses.
Wool
Wool is perhaps the most well-known use for animal hair. It is most commonly derived from sheep, although it can also come from goats, rabbits, and even alpacas. Wool is popular for clothing because it is soft, durable, and insulating. It can also be less irritating to the skin than synthetic fibers like polyester.
Brushes and Cleaning Tools
Animal hair is also commonly used in brushes of all kinds. From paintbrushes to makeup brushes to make-up sponges, animal hair is a key ingredient in many household cleaning supplies. Its natural texture makes it particularly effective for removing dirt and dust from surfaces.
Bristles
The next time you brush your teeth or sweep your floor, take a closer look at the bristles on your brush. Chances are they’re made from animal hair! hog bristle brushes are particularly common, although nylon is gradually becoming more popular due to its synthetic durability.
Animal hair bristles are good for cleaning because they are stiff enough to scrub away dirt and debris but soft enough to avoid damaging surfaces.
Fur
Fur has been used for clothing since time immemorial and is still popular today, particularly among people who live in cold climates. Unlike wool, fur does not felt when wet and can provide extra warmth even when wet.
There are many animals whose fur can be made into clothing, such as mink, foxes, rabbits, and beavers. It is important to note that some people are opposed to the use of fur in clothing due to ethical concerns about animals being killed for their pelts.
Wigs
Wigs and hair extensions are made from human hair, but also from the hair of horses, yaks, and other mammals. Usually, these hairs are gathered from brushes and combings, although some manufacturers will shave the animals to get a closer match to human hair.
The horsehair used in upholstery is also gathered from brushing and combing. This type of animal hair is popular for upholstery because it is durable and resistant to wear.
Angora fiber
Angora fiber comes from Angora rabbits. The fiber is soft, light, and durable, making it ideal for sweaters, hats, and other garments. The rabbits are not harmed during harvest; instead, their fur is gathered during shedding season or when they are groomed.
Cashmere fiber
Cashmere fiber comes from Kashmir goats. As with Angora rabbits, cashmere goats are not harmed during harvest; instead, their fur is gathered during shedding season or when they are groomed. The fibers are soft and lightweight, making them ideal for sweaters and other garments.
Mohair fiber
Mohair fiber comes from Angora goats. Again, these animals are not harmed during harvest; instead, their fur is gathered during shedding season or when they are groomed. Mohair fibers are strong and durable, making them ideal for upholstery, rugs, and carpeting.
Wool fibers
Wool fibers come from sheep. Sheep are sheared once a year to provide wool for clothing, blankets, and other textile products. When used in clothing, wool is often blended with other fabrics to provide a more comfortable fit.
Wool fibers are also commonly used in insulation because they trap air to provide warmth.
Alpaca fiber
Alpaca fiber comes from Alpacas. These animals are shorn every twelve to eighteen months to provide wool for clothing, blankets, and other textile products. Alpaca wool is often used in blends with other fabrics such as wool or cotton.
Conclusion
As you can see, animal hair is a versatile material that can be used for many different purposes. Whether it’s for cleaning tools, clothing, or home decor, animal hair is a valuable resource that has been used effectively for centuries.
Animal hair serves a variety of purposes that you probably encounter on a daily basis without even realizing it.
From the wool in your sweater to the bristles in your toothbrush, animal hair plays an important role in our lives. Whether you are interested in its aesthetic, practical, or ethical uses, it is important to understand the role that animal hair plays in our world.
