Cashmere is one of the most luxurious fabrics in the world, prized for its unmatched softness, warmth, and lightweight feel. Whether in the form of a sweater, scarf, or throw, cashmere provides a level of comfort and elegance that few materials can rival. However, this luxury comes with a need for special care. Unlike sturdier fabrics, cashmere is delicate, and improper washing or storage can lead to damage, shrinkage, or loss of softness.
To ensure that your cashmere remains in pristine condition for years, it’s crucial to understand the correct way to clean, dry, and store it. Washing it incorrectly can cause the fibers to break down, leading to pilling, stretching, or felting. With the right approach, however, cashmere can maintain its softness and shape, even with regular use.
In this guide, you’ll learn the best practices for washing and caring for cashmere, including when to hand wash versus machine wash, how to dry it properly, and tips for long-term maintenance. By following these steps, you can extend the life of your cashmere pieces and continue enjoying their luxurious feel for years to come.
Understanding Cashmere and Its Sensitivity
Cashmere is derived from the undercoat of cashmere goats, primarily found in regions with cold climates, such as Mongolia, China, and Nepal. The fibers are incredibly fine and soft, making cashmere one of the most sought-after and expensive types of wool. Unlike regular wool, which can sometimes feel rough or itchy, cashmere is known for its smooth texture and insulating properties, providing warmth without the bulk.
However, the same qualities that make cashmere desirable also make it delicate. The ultra-fine fibers are prone to stretching, shrinking, and pilling when exposed to heat, agitation, or harsh chemicals. This means that washing, drying, and storing cashmere incorrectly can quickly degrade its quality. For instance, using hot water or wringing out excess moisture can cause the fibers to tighten and lose their softness. Similarly, hanging a cashmere sweater on a hanger can lead to unwanted stretching and misshaping.
Another important consideration is the difference between structured and unstructured cashmere garments. Soft, knitted cashmere sweaters, scarves, and blankets can typically be washed at home with the right techniques. However, structured garments like cashmere coats and blazers often contain internal linings, padding, or interfacing that don’t react well to water. These should always be taken to a professional dry cleaner rather than washed at home.
By understanding what makes cashmere unique and how it reacts to different conditions, you can take the necessary precautions to preserve its softness and longevity. In the next sections, we’ll explore the best ways to wash and care for cashmere without causing damage.
Preparing to Wash Cashmere
Before washing your cashmere items, it’s important to determine which pieces can safely be washed at home and which should be left to the professionals. Most knitted or unstructured cashmere garments, such as sweaters, scarves, and blankets, can be washed by hand or in a machine with proper care. These items are typically soft and flexible, and when handled correctly, they can maintain their softness and shape without any issues.
However, structured cashmere items like coats, jackets, or garments with padding and linings should not be washed at home. These items have internal components that give them shape, such as shoulder pads and lapels, which could become misshapen or damaged by water. Washing these items could ruin their structure, so it’s best to take them to a professional dry cleaner who specializes in delicate fabrics. They have the expertise and equipment to care for such items properly, ensuring they keep their form and integrity.
When it comes to choosing between machine-washing and hand-washing cashmere, hand-washing is generally the safest method. It’s gentler on the fabric, allowing you to control the temperature of the water and the amount of agitation the fibers undergo. However, if you choose to machine wash, there are ways to minimize the risk of damage. Using a front-loading washing machine (which is gentler on clothes than a top-loader), setting it to the delicate or wool cycle, and washing the item in cool water are all crucial steps to keep your cashmere safe.
What You’ll Need for Washing Cashmere
Washing cashmere requires some specific tools and materials to ensure the fabric is treated with the utmost care. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Materials
- Plastic Bin or Sink: If you don’t have access to a sink with a plug, a plastic bin or bucket can serve as an alternative for soaking and washing your cashmere. Make sure it’s large enough to comfortably fit your item without crowding.
- Flat Drying Rack: After washing, cashmere should never be hung to dry, as this can cause it to stretch out of shape. A flat drying rack is ideal for air-drying your items. If you don’t have one, a clean, dry towel on a flat surface can also work.
- Mesh Washing Bag (for machine washing): If you opt to machine wash your cashmere, a mesh laundry bag will protect the fibers from snagging or rubbing against the machine drum. It also keeps the garment from getting overly agitated during the spin cycle.
- Clean, Absorbent Bath Towels: You’ll need towels for gently pressing out the excess water from the fabric after washing. This helps reduce drying time while ensuring the cashmere maintains its shape.
Choosing the Right Detergent
Selecting the right detergent is one of the most important factors in washing cashmere. You should always use a mild detergent formulated specifically for delicate fabrics, such as wool wash or Castile soap. These detergents are designed to clean without stripping the natural oils from the fibers, which are essential for maintaining softness and elasticity. Avoid regular laundry detergents that may contain harsh chemicals or fragrances that could damage the fibers.
Importance of Using Cool Water
When washing cashmere, always use cool water—never hot or warm. Cashmere fibers are highly sensitive to temperature changes, and hot water can cause the fibers to shrink and lose their natural softness. Cool water helps preserve the integrity of the fabric, ensuring that it doesn’t shrink or lose its shape. Additionally, it’s essential to avoid using hot water when rinsing cashmere to prevent any unexpected changes to its texture or size.
By gathering the right tools and materials and choosing the right detergent, you’re setting yourself up for a successful wash. In the next section, we’ll walk through the steps of washing your cashmere properly to ensure it remains as soft and luxurious as ever.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Cashmere
Now that you’ve prepared your materials and chosen the appropriate detergent, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of washing your cashmere. This careful, methodical approach will help preserve the fabric’s luxurious feel and shape, ensuring that your garments last for years.
Pretreating Stains
Before washing your cashmere item, it’s essential to address any stains you might find. Cashmere is delicate, so stain treatment must be done gently to avoid damaging the fibers.
- Using Cornstarch for Oil Stains: For oily stains, such as those caused by food or makeup, sprinkle cornstarch directly onto the stain. Let it sit for about 3-4 hours to absorb the oil from the fibers. After the time has passed, gently shake off the cornstarch and proceed with washing your garment as usual. Cornstarch works as a natural absorbent, making it an ideal solution for oil-based stains without harming the fabric.
- Applying Wool Wash or Castile Soap for Other Stains: For other types of stains, such as dirt or sweat, apply a few drops of a mild detergent, such as wool wash or Castile soap, directly onto the stain. Gently rub the soap into the stain with your fingertips, taking care not to stretch or rub too aggressively. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes before proceeding to wash the item.
- When to Seek Professional Stain Removal: If you encounter particularly tough stains like ink or dye, it’s best to take the garment to a professional dry cleaner. They have specialized treatments to tackle these kinds of stains without damaging the delicate cashmere fibers.
Creating a Washing Solution
After pretreating any stains, it’s time to prepare your washing solution.
- How to Mix a Gentle Detergent Solution: Fill a clean sink, plastic bin, or basin with cool water—ideally around 65-75°F (18-24°C). For the detergent, add a small amount of wool wash or Castile soap, following the manufacturer’s instructions on the label. Be sure to mix the solution well by swishing the water gently with your hand to disperse the soap evenly. This creates a mild and effective cleaning solution that won’t damage the fibers.
- Why Temperature Control Is Crucial: Using cool water is key to protecting your cashmere. Warm or hot water can cause the fibers to shrink, lose elasticity, and become stiff. Cool water, on the other hand, helps maintain the softness and shape of the garment. It also reduces the risk of color fading, which is especially important for darker or vibrant cashmere items.
Washing the Cashmere
Washing cashmere is all about gentle handling to avoid causing unnecessary wear on the fabric.
- Proper Soaking and Handling Techniques: Submerge your cashmere garment into the washing solution, ensuring that it’s completely wet. Gently swish the item through the water, allowing the detergent to lift away dirt and oils. Avoid scrubbing or wringing the fabric. This could stretch or distort the delicate fibers.
- Avoiding Agitation and Excessive Friction: One of the most important aspects of washing cashmere is minimizing agitation. Cashmere fibers are fragile, and excessive movement or friction can lead to pulling or stretching. While it’s fine to lightly swish the garment, be sure to avoid wringing or twisting it. Agitation weakens the fibers and can lead to irreversible damage.
Rinsing the Cashmere
Once your cashmere has soaked and is clean, the next step is to rinse it thoroughly.
- How to Remove Soap Without Stretching Fibers: Lift the cashmere gently out of the water, supporting the fabric to prevent any stretching. Avoid pulling or tugging on the item. Drain the soapy water and refill the sink with clean, cool water to rinse. Submerge the garment again, and gently swish it through the water to remove any remaining detergent.
- Best Practices for Draining and Refilling: When draining the soapy water, don’t twist or wring the fabric. Instead, gently press down on the garment to remove excess water. After draining, refill the sink with fresh cool water and repeat the rinsing process until the water runs clear and free of soap residue. This ensures that no detergent is left in the fabric, which can irritate sensitive skin or cause damage over time.
Drying the Cashmere
Drying is one of the most critical steps in preserving cashmere’s softness and shape. Cashmere should never be wrung out or placed in a tumble dryer.
- How to Remove Excess Water Safely: To remove excess water from your cashmere, gently press the garment between two clean, absorbent towels. Roll the towel up with the garment inside and press lightly to absorb moisture. This method helps prevent stretching or distorting the shape of the garment while absorbing a good amount of water.
- Air Drying Methods: Towel Rolling and Flat Drying: After you’ve removed excess moisture, lay the cashmere flat to dry. Place it on a flat, dry towel or a mesh drying rack. Ensure that the garment is reshaped to its original size and structure. Avoid hanging it to dry, as this can stretch the fibers and distort the garment’s shape.
- Why Avoiding Heat and Sunlight Is Important: Cashmere should always be air-dried away from direct heat or sunlight. High temperatures, whether from a radiator, direct sunlight, or a tumble dryer, can cause the fibers to shrink and lose their softness. Letting the garment dry naturally at room temperature allows the fibers to maintain their integrity and softness. If drying on a towel, be sure to flip the garment after a few hours to speed up the process and ensure even drying.
Long-Term Cashmere Care and Storage
Proper long-term care is essential to ensure that your cashmere garments retain their luxurious feel and appearance for years. While cashmere is relatively easy to care for when washed correctly, there are a few additional steps you can take to prevent premature wear and maintain its softness.
How Often to Wash Cashmere
Cashmere doesn’t need to be washed after every wear, which is one of the key factors in preserving its longevity. Washing too often can weaken the fibers and result in loss of softness over time. In general, aim to wash cashmere after 4-5 wears, or sooner if it has been exposed to stains, excessive perspiration, or odors. In between washes, you can simply air out your garments by hanging them in a cool, dry place.
Preventing Wear and Tear Between Uses
To keep cashmere in top condition, wear it thoughtfully. Layering a washable, thin t-shirt or camisole underneath your cashmere sweater can help absorb sweat and body oils, reducing the need for frequent washing. This will also help prevent stains from seeping into the fibers and affecting the garment’s appearance.
Additionally, avoid wearing cashmere in situations where it may be exposed to heavy friction, such as carrying a heavy bag or sitting on abrasive surfaces. These actions can cause pilling and wear on the fibers. Be mindful of the environments in which you wear cashmere to prevent unnecessary damage.
Proper Storage Methods to Maintain Shape and Softness
When not in use, store your cashmere garments properly to preserve their shape and softness. Always fold knitted cashmere sweaters, scarves, and other garments instead of hanging them. Hanging cashmere can stretch the fibers and cause the garment to lose its shape over time. Use a flat, clean surface for folding, and store the garments in a breathable cotton garment bag or drawer. Make sure to avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause mildew or odors.
Extra Tips for Keeping Cashmere in Top Condition
In addition to washing and storing your cashmere properly, there are a few extra tips that can help you keep your garments looking and feeling like new.
Preventing Odors and Stains with Layering
Layering cashmere over a thin, breathable base layer can help absorb moisture and prevent the fabric from retaining unpleasant odors or sweat. By wearing a lightweight t-shirt, tank top, or camisole beneath your cashmere garments, you’ll reduce the need to wash them as often, which helps protect the fibers from unnecessary wear.
Managing Wrinkles Without Ironing
Cashmere doesn’t respond well to heat, and ironing can cause irreparable damage to the fibers. If your cashmere item becomes wrinkled, avoid the iron and opt for a gentle steaming method instead. Hang the garment on a padded hanger and use a clothes steamer on low heat to smooth out wrinkles. The steam will relax the fibers and remove creases without the risk of burning or damaging the fabric.
Protecting Against Moths and Pests
Moths and other pests are notorious for damaging cashmere garments. To prevent moths from making a meal of your soft wool, store your cashmere in a cool, dry place, away from heat and humidity. Consider using natural moth repellents, such as cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or even specially designed garment bags with moth-repelling properties. These can help keep your cashmere safe from pests while ensuring it retains its quality.
Read more: How to Wash Silk Pillowcases and Sheets
Conclusion
Cashmere is undeniably one of the finest and most luxurious fabrics available, but it does require proper care to maintain its softness and shape. By following the tips and steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your cashmere garments stay in pristine condition for years to come.
From washing gently by hand or machine to proper drying techniques and thoughtful storage, taking the time to care for your cashmere can make a significant difference in preserving its quality. With the right attention, your cashmere garments will continue to feel as soft and luxurious as the first time you wore them, providing you with lasting comfort and elegance.
By implementing these simple practices, you’ll extend the life of your cashmere wardrobe while keeping it looking its best. Whether it’s your favorite sweater, scarf, or throw, your cashmere will remain a cherished part of your collection for years to come.