How to Wash and Care for a Cashmere Garment

A good cashmere garment can last for many years. But like all fine natural materials, it needs to be treated properly.

The good news is that caring for cashmere is much easier than many people think.

It does not require complicated treatments. What matters most is a gentle approach, low temperatures and a few good habits.

Can cashmere be washed?

Absolutely.

One of the most common misconceptions is that cashmere should be washed as little as possible. In fact, when done correctly, washing helps keep a garment clean, soft and pleasant to wear.

Water itself is not the problem.

The main enemies of cashmere are excessive heat, friction, sudden temperature changes and improper drying.

How to hand wash cashmere

Hand washing remains one of the simplest and safest methods.

Use cold or lukewarm water, ideally no warmer than 30°C (86°F), and a small amount of mild detergent specifically formulated for wool and cashmere.

Immerse the garment and gently move it through the water.

There is no need to rub it vigorously and, above all, never twist or wring it.

Rinsing should also be gentle, preferably avoiding significant temperature differences between the washing and rinsing water.

Can cashmere be machine washed?

It depends on the garment, and you should always check the care instructions on its label first.

When machine washing is permitted, a modern washing machine with a good wool programme can be used. Choose:

• a wool or delicate cycle;

• a maximum temperature of 30°C (86°F);

• a detergent suitable for wool and cashmere;

• a very gentle spin cycle.

It is important to remember that not all cashmere garments behave in exactly the same way.

Their response to washing can vary depending on the yarn, knit construction, gauge, manufacturing process and finishing treatment.

For this reason, the manufacturer's care label should always be your first reference.

Never wring cashmere

A wet garment is heavier, and its structure is more susceptible to stretching and distortion.

After washing, remove excess water by gently pressing the garment rather than twisting it.

A simple method is to lay it flat on a clean towel, gently roll the towel up and allow it to absorb some of the moisture.

How to dry cashmere properly

This is probably one of the most important steps.

Cashmere should be dried flat, gently reshaping the garment to its original form.

Avoid hanging a wet cashmere sweater on a hanger. The weight of the water can stretch and distort its shape.

You should also avoid:

tumble dryers, radiators, heaters and other direct sources of heat.

Allow the garment to dry naturally, preferably away from direct sunlight.

What about pilling?

There is an important myth to clear up here.

The appearance of a few small pills does not automatically mean that the cashmere is poor quality.

Pilling occurs when some of the fibres on the surface of the yarn work their way out and become entangled through friction, creating the familiar small balls of fibre.

This can happen particularly during the first few wears and in areas exposed to greater friction, such as under the arms, along the sides of the garment or where it comes into contact with bags, belts or other clothing.

Pills can be removed gently using a suitable cashmere comb.

With wear and proper care, pilling generally tends to stabilise.

Cashmere needs to rest too

It may sound unusual, but it is a good idea to avoid wearing the same cashmere sweater every day.

Allowing the garment to rest gives the fibres, which are subjected to tension and friction during wear, time to recover naturally.

Rotating your cashmere garments is therefore a simple habit that can help keep them looking beautiful for longer.

How to store cashmere

When it is time to put your cashmere away for an extended period, it is best to do so only after the garment has been washed and is completely dry.

Cashmere garments should be stored folded rather than hanging.

Over long periods, a hanger can distort the shoulders and alter the shape and fit of the garment.

Store your cashmere in a dry place, protected from moths and preferably inside a breathable garment bag or suitable storage container.

Cashmere is not fragile. You simply need to understand it.

Cashmere is often considered an extremely delicate material, almost too difficult to wear in everyday life.

That is not the case.

A well-made cashmere garment can be worn and washed normally for many years.

You simply need to respect the nature of the fibre.

Low temperatures, minimal friction, no twisting and flat drying.

Just a few simple rules can make a significant difference.

And perhaps this is one of the most beautiful things about cashmere: over time, a good garment does not necessarily become an “old” garment.

When it is well made and properly cared for, it simply becomes your cashmere.