How to Wash and Care for Cashmere: Step by Step Instructions

Cashmere, also known as cashmere wool, is a natural fiber that originates from the goat breed from which it gets its name. Sweaters, scarves, gloves, and cardigans manufactured with this fabric are soft to the touch and toasty like few others, making them ideal for keeping warm throughout the coldest months of the year. The issue occurs when it comes to washing them because cashmere is a delicate fabric that demands special attention to keep it in good shape. In this post, you’ll learn how to wash cashmere step by step and pick up some tips for keeping your items looking as good as new for a long time.

How to Wash Cashmere Step by Step

To begin, it is important to note that this type of garment should not be subjected to excessive washing. Of course, you’ll have to wash them when they’re soiled, but a cashmere sweater shouldn’t be washed on a regular basis (for example after a single, short wear). If necessary, take these measures to wash your cashmere items and ensure that they do not become distorted or damaged. The easiest method to do it is to always wash your hands.

• Shake the garment gently before washing to remove any dirt that hasn’t stuck to it, then flip it inside out and wash it inside out.
• Fill a large container, such as a basin, with warm water. When care for cashmere, the temperature of the water is critical. Never use hot water on these delicate wool fibers since it will ruin them. The water should be between cold and somewhat warm, but not hotter than 20 degrees Celsius.
• For sensitive fabrics, use 1-2 capfuls of liquid hand soap (do not use powdered soap). Another alternative is to use a neutral shampoo to wash the item. Stir with your hand to dissolve the soap and create foam.
• Introduce the cashmere to the water and submerge it without squeezing or rubbing it. Allow 8 to 15 minutes for it to soak, depending on how unclean it is, but don’t overdo it. Soaking the garment for too long may cause it to warp.
• After this time has passed, and only if necessary owing to the presence of a stain, you can boost the soap’s activity by softly and slowly removing the garment with your fingertips in a subtle ‘massage’ for a few more minutes.
• Empty the container and fill it with clean water when you’re done rinsing (equally lukewarm). Wringing the garment is not a good idea. Allow the water to do its work by leaving the cashmere in clean water to release the soap. After a few minutes, empty the container again, and if there is still a lot of foam, repeat the procedure.
• Finally, the delicate task of draining extra water from the garment and hanging it to dry arrives. When you’ve finished emptying the basin, gently push the cashmere sweater (or any other garment) against one of the container’s sides to remove as much water as possible. It’s all about pressing lightly to allow the water to drain while avoiding distorting the fabric.
• Place the cashmere on a clean towel and roll it up loosely with the item inside after the first drying stage. Allow for a few minutes for the moisture to transfer from the cashmere to the towel.
• Finally, lay the item flat and smooth on a flat, smooth surface, then place it on another cloth or towel to complete drying naturally. To avoid it being misshapen, do not hang it or leave it out to dry in the sun. Ideally, keep it stretched out in a well-ventilated place in the house to dry faster; even if it takes a long time, it will be worth it because it will appear brand new.

If you are in a rush and need to wash the cashmere in the washing machine, always protect the item with a special washing cover (also putting it in a pillowcase). You’ll also need to select a delicate garments-specific washing procedure, avoiding the spin cycle.

Cashmere Care

In addition to properly washing cashmere, here are some methods to keep your garment looking wonderful for years to come:

• Dryers should be avoided at all costs because this wool is sensitive to heat.
• When ironing cashmere, keep the temperature low and avoid using steam. Put a tiny towel between the soleplate of the iron and the garment to prevent damage.
• Keep the cashmere on a shelf or drawer in the closet as much as possible to avoid it hanging. When putting the clothing aside, try not to produce too many folds.
• If you need to remove lint, use a comb or brush designed exclusively for this purpose to remove lint from wool.
• You don’t have to wash your cashmere clothing fully if it’s clean but has a stain on it by accident. Simply apply a small amount of neutral liquid soap on it. Allow it to act for a few minutes before applying a small amount of water and allowing it to dry.