Cashmere Care
Cashmere is a luxurious, delicate fabric made from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats. To keep your cashmere items in great shape, you need to take special care when washing, storing, and handling them. Here are some tips on how to properly care for cashmere:
1. Washing Cashmere
Hand Wash: It's best to hand wash cashmere in lukewarm water (around 30°C or 85°F) with a mild, cashmere-specific detergent. Avoid using regular laundry detergents that can be too harsh.
Machine Wash (if necessary): If the garment allows for machine washing, use a gentle cycle in a mesh bag, with cold water, and a mild detergent. Always check the care label.
Avoid Fabric Softener: Cashmere is naturally soft, and fabric softeners can leave a residue that might harm the fibers over time.
Don't Soak Too Long: Don’t soak cashmere for long periods—10-15 minutes is enough.
2. Drying Cashmere
Do Not Wring: After washing, gently press out the excess water by pressing the fabric against the side of the sink or between two towels. Never wring it out, as this can distort the fabric.
Lay Flat to Dry: Lay your cashmere garment flat on a clean towel to air dry. Reshape it to its original shape while it’s damp. Avoid hanging it, as it may stretch out of shape.
3. Storing Cashmere
Fold, Don’t Hang: Always fold cashmere to avoid stretching or misshaping. Hanging it may cause it to lose its form or stretch.
Use a Storage Bag: For long-term storage, place your cashmere items in a breathable fabric storage bag (not plastic, which can trap moisture and cause mildew).
Keep It in a Cool, Dry Place: Store cashmere in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can damage the fibers.
Moth Protection: Cashmere is prone to moth damage, so it's a good idea to use natural moth repellents like lavender or cedar in your storage area
4. Dealing with Pills
If you’ve used cashmere before, you know that pilling is one of the natural characteristics of the fabric. Since cashmere is a natural fiber, it can form small balls of fuzz, or "pills," over time, especially in areas that experience more friction. This is normal and doesn’t mean the cashmere is of low quality; in fact, it's often a sign of premium, soft material. However, there are ways to manage and reduce pilling to keep your cashmere looking great.
Use a Cashmere Comb: A gentle cashmere comb is one of the best tools for removing pills. Simply run it over the surface of the fabric to lift off the pills. Be gentle to avoid damaging the fibers.
Fabric Shaver: Another option is a fabric shaver, which is designed to safely remove pills from delicate fabrics like cashmere. Use it lightly to avoid any snags or over-shaving, which could affect the texture.
Hand Wash Less Frequently: Washing too often can lead to pilling, so try to wear your cashmere pieces multiple times between washes. Spot clean when necessary and only wash it when absolutely needed to reduce friction and stress on the fibers.
Store Properly: Proper storage also helps reduce pilling. Store your cashmere flat and away from items that might cause excessive friction. Keeping it in a breathable fabric bag can help maintain its quality.
Avoid Rough Surfaces: When wearing cashmere, try to avoid rough surfaces or activities that could lead to excessive rubbing. Friction can cause the fibers to loosen and form pills. While pilling is natural, taking these steps will help keep your cashmere garments looking smooth and feeling luxurious for longer.