Oh how we love our cozy cozy cashmere! As one of the most luxurious winter fabrics, it’s important we take good care of these pieces so they will stand the test of time. Follow these steps for how to care for cashmere so it can keep you warm for years and years.
How to Care for Cashmere
When it comes to caring for cashmere, we always recommend consulting the care label on the item for any specific instructions. Cashmere is a delicate fabric made up of natural fibers which requires some special care and a gentle touch to keep it in good condition. Not to worry–our cashmere care guide has all the information you need for proper washing, drying, and storage of these items!
Step 1: Prepare to Hand Wash
Fill a sink or basin with warm water; never use hot water—it can cause your cashmere to shrink!
Step 2: Toss In Your Detergent
Add your laundry detergent and swish it around in the water until it dissolves completely. We recommend using a gentle detergent that does not contain enzymes, like Dropps Sensitive Skin Laundry Detergent.
Step 3: Add Your Item
To hand wash cashmere, turn your garment inside out and submerge it into the water, lightly pressing the fabric until it is completely soaked. Swish the garment around and gently work the detergent through the fabric.
Step 4: Rinse
Drain the soapy water and then refill the basin with clear, tepid water. Rinse until there are no suds left.
Step 5: Press Out The Water
Gently press (don’t wring!) the excess water out of your garment and then lay it flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel up with your garment inside, lightly squeezing along the way to absorb as much water as possible.
Step 6: Dry
Lay your garment flat or on a garment rack to dry completely. Be sure not to hang or use clothespins before it is fully dry, as delicate fabric like cashmere can easily stretch out when wet!
Step 7: Store
When storing your cashmere garments, always make sure they are completely clean and dry first. Any moisture or dirt can attract moths and yucky smells. Store your sweaters by folding them carefully and keeping them in a cool, dry space. Hanging cashmere sweaters for long periods of time can cause stretching in the shoulders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions about how to care for cashmere? We’ve got you covered.
How do you wash 100% cashmere?
100% cashmere items should be washed carefully by hand. Be sure to follow any cashmere care instructions on the care label, avoid heat in washing or drying, and use products designed for delicate fabrics.
How do you keep cashmere in good condition?
Caring for cashmere properly is vital to maintain the quality of the fabric for years to come. Always check the care label or manufacturer instructions before washing. When in doubt, hand wash with cold water and a gentle detergent that does not contain enzymes, like Dropps Sensitive Skin Laundry Detergent. Avoid exposing the fabric to heat or harsh chemicals like bleach.
How often should cashmere be washed?
Assuming you had a stain-free day, you certainly do not need to wash cashmere after every wear. Too-frequent laundering can damage your garment over time. How often you wash your cashmere items comes down to personal preference. Some people say to wash their items after every three wears, while others get away with washing just once or twice a season! When in doubt, a sniff check should help you decide.
How do you keep cashmere from pilling?
Pilling is a natural process that occurs when fabric rubs against itself or another surface. It’s perfectly normal–but that doesn’t mean we can’t lessen it. Giving your cashmere garments a “rest” in between wears will help the fibers bounce back to their original shape. A gentle, enzyme-free laundry detergent will help clean your garment without weakening the fibers, which will prevent excess pilling or damage. Hand washing items alone, rather than with a large load of laundry, will also reduce friction that causes pilling.