How to wash cashmere
Knowing how to properly care for cashmere, from washing to drying and storing, can help them last longer. Knowing how to clean cashmere sweaters without shrinking or harming them will help you to get the most out of your investment pieces.
Washing cashmere by hand
Hand washing cashmere sweaters is almost always the best option. Cashmere softens with time, so the more you hand-wash it over the years, the softer the fibres will get.
Remember that hot water will shrink the cashmere fibres.
Follow these steps for an extra mild hand wash that will leave your cashmere clothes looking brand new.
Fill a bucket or soak in with lukewarm water - never hot water. A critical tip for washing cashmere sweaters and other clothing is to avoid using hot water since this might cause the material to shrink.
Mix a small amount of mild detergent into the water. A gentle laundry detergent, a small amount of wool-specific detergent.
Turn your cashmere inside out and soak it in the solution. Allow it to soak for 5 minutes to loosen any dirt.
Rinse the sweater at the same temperature to avoid thermal shock. Take care not to wring the fibre, as this could warp and stretch the shape.
Gently squeeze extra water from the sweater gently without twisting. You may compress it into a ball and squeeze the water out, or you can roll your cashmere in the towel to absorb excess water.
Washing cashmere in a washing machine
If you can avoid machine-washing cashmere, hand-washing is always safer.
If the care label indicates washing in a laundry machine is OK, how can you wash cashmere without damaging it? Here are some tips:
Put the cashmere garment in a mesh laundry bag. This will reduce friction and agitation inside the machine. Alternatively, a laundry bag, an old clean white pillowcase knotted at the open end can suffice.
Wash on a gentle setting in your laundry machine. Select the lowest water temperature and spin setting.
Add mild detergent like baby shampoo to the machine. Add any comfort perfume to your cosy cashmere garments for an added scent.
Do not tumble dry. Lay your cashmere out to dry on a level surface.
How to dry cashmere
Your drying method is important if you want your sweater to preserve its original size and shape.
Fold your cashmere into a ball. Press it gently without wringing to let the water seep out. Remember that any friction on your cashmere sweater can result in pilling.
Roll the cashmere in a towel to remove excess water. Lay the cashmere flat on a towel and roll it and the towel together into a sausage form. Then, using your palm hands, push down on the towel to absorb the water off your sweater.
Lay your cashmere out flat to finish drying. Cover a flat drying rack with an absorbent towel before laying your sweater down. If you don't have a drying rack, just place a towel on the ground and lay the sweater on it. Move the sweater about on the towel to the desired shape for wearing. Your sweater will keep its form after drying.
By following these essential tips, you'll ensure that your cashmere remains in pristine condition, providing you with warmth, style, and comfort for years to come. Take care of your cashmere investment, and it will reward you with its exquisite softness and timeless elegance.