The specific origin of the word comes from a sub-alpine species of antelope native to European mountain ranges, the hide of which was originally used to produce a particular kind of supple leather known as Chamois. Today, what is often referred to as chamois leather is more typically produced from the hide of domestic goats or sheep. As a material, it has a range of uses, but because of its absorbent properties and being non-abrasive, it is commonly often used for cleaning and polishing. Chamois cloth is a cotton product and only related to the similarly named animal/leather product by common characteristics. (smooth suede finish and absorbance). Modern-day Chamois cloth is a Northeastern classic that started as outdoor wear. (most likely due to its original introduction as a shirt by the L.L. Bean company during the 1920s. A company that especially early on, sold straightforward high-quality products to the hunting and workwear markets). Chamois cloth. is very similar, but often more substantial than flannel. The difference usually being that chamois starts with a heavier and more tightly woven fabric before it is brushed. Woven using either a plain Or twill weave, but the weave is hidden by napping on both sides (slightly heavier on the face).