Luxury from the desert: The entire process of obtaining camel wool for premium bedding

Camel wool is considered one of the rarest and most prized natural fibers. Its popularity lies in its incredible ability to regulate temperature and durability, properties that have evolved as an adaptation to the extreme conditions in which camels live.

This collection process, unlike industrial processing, requires patience, respect for the animal, and following natural cycles.

Life in extremes: Characteristics of the Bactrian camel

The highest quality wool, so-called camel hair or camel down (undercoat) , comes from the two-humped Bactrian camel ( Camelus bactrianus ), which inhabits harsh, cold and dry regions of Central Asia, such as the Gobi Desert (Mongolia, China).

Fascinating facts about the Bactrian camel

• Adaptation: The Bactrian camel has developed a unique double coat to withstand extreme climate changes. The outer, coarse coat protects it from the elements, while the inner, extremely fine and soft undercoat provides superior thermal insulation .
• Thermal range: These camels tolerate winter temperatures that drop to -40°C , and summer temperatures that exceed +40°C .
• Quantity: An adult camel naturally loses between 5 and 8 kilograms of raw hair per year. However, only a small part (about 1.5 to 3 kg ) makes up luxurious, fine down suitable for bedding.

Phase 1: Ethical wool collection

The collection of camel wool is ethical and based on the natural shedding cycle, which is why it is more valued than standard shearing.

The natural shedding process

The camel's undercoat is lost during spring and early summer , when the animal no longer needs winter insulation.

1. Combing: The best method of collection is hand combing . Camel owners gently comb the animals to remove the already loose, soft hair.
2. Ground collection: Much of the hair is collected from pastures and the ground where the camel sheds its hair during molting. This approach ensures that only the hair that the camel naturally sheds is used.
3. Cleanliness: The coat is separated into two layers. Only soft undercoat is used for quilts, which is the warmest, lightest and finest.

Phase 2: Fiber processing

Raw wool contains sand, dirt and coarse hairs. A sharp and thorough treatment is essential to achieve a clean and luxurious feel.

1. Manual sorting: First, the coarse outer hair is separated from the fine undercoat. Only the finest fibers pass further into the process.
2. Scouring: Wool is washed in mild detergents. The advantage is that camel's wool has very little lanolin (unlike sheep's wool), which makes washing easier and the wool retains its natural softness.
3. Carding: The cleaned and dried hair goes through a carding process where the fibers are untangled and straightened. The goal is to create an airy, uniform "network" of fibers suitable for filling.

Phase 3: Making long-lasting quilts

Carded camel wool is used as a filling that must be protected to maintain its volume and thermal properties.

• Construction: The key element is quilting . Quilts are sewn into chambers (squares, cassettes or channels) to prevent the wool from moving and shrinking. This ensures even insulation and maintains the fullness of the duvet.
• Cover: A breathable, natural material, such as cotton, is most often used for the duvet cover, which allows the wool to optimally regulate moisture and temperature.

A look behind the curtain

The process of obtaining wool from gathering in the desert to the finished quilt is long and dedicated to quality.

We want to allow you to see this fascinating journey of raw materials for yourself.

We invite you to watch our exclusive short film that details the journey of camel wool to your home and the highest standard of bedding production.

Click here and explore the story of luxury AND comfort.