Cashmere is an investment that will bring you luxury, warmth and style. From a Scottish cashmere scarf to a perfect piece of knitwear, it’s a timeless choice and it deserves the best of care to retain the unique softness and shape. Looking after your knits properly will mean that they will last for years to come and stay beautiful and sumptuous.
How to wash cashmere
First of all consult the care label. Some cashmeres may be labelled ‘dry-clean only’, in which case you should play it safe and leave it to the professionals. Otherwise the cashmere can be hand washed in lukewarm water, or washed on the ‘delicates’ cycle of the washing machine. For extra protection, you may wish to place the garment in a laundry net.
Avoid using regular laundry detergent as these are too harsh for the delicate fabric. Use a detergent that is specially formulated for a gentle wash, or a few drops of baby shampoo.
How to dry cashmere
When the garment is removed from the water, gently squeeze it to remove excess water, but avoid wringing or twisting it as this will stretch the fabric. The garment should then be laid out flat on a towel to dry, as hanging it will cause it to stretch out of shape. Avoid drying it near to heat sources or in direct sunlight, and ensure that the space is well ventilated.
How to store cashmere
Make sure that the garment is fully dry before storing it, because any residual dampness may attract moths. Cashmere is particularly susceptible to moth damage, so it's advisable to store it in zippered breathable storage bags. You may also wish to line the bag with anti-moth strips. Avoid placing jumpers on hangers as this can stretch the fabric.
Deal with pilling
Even the finest quality cashmere will pill (form small bobbles of lint on the surface) over time. Gently remove pilling with a soft-bristle brush, keeping your movements in one direction. You may even wish to invest in a mechanical fabric shaver that is designed to deal with delicate fabrics.
When wearing your cashmere, be careful of snagging it on jewellery with sharp edges, particularly when you are putting on or removing the garment. It’s best to give fine knits a break between wears to allow them to recover their shape and suppleness.
Removing stains
If there is a stain on your cashmere, remove it as soon as possible to avoid damage to the fibres. Avoid using harsh detergents or hot water no matter how bad the stain looks, as this will make the situation worse. Instead, remove any solids and gently blot the stain with a wool-safe detergent and cool or cold water.
Keeping cashmere special with some simple care techniques means that you will extend its lifespan and be able to enjoy your luxury item at its beautiful best. Like a fine wine, good quality cashmere gets better over time, so treat it with the love and respect it deserves!
