Cashmere Care 101: How to Keep Yours Looking Like New
Cashmere, known for its luxurious softness and timeless elegance, is a beloved choice for cozy sweaters and scarves. However, maintaining its pristine condition requires a bit of extra care. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to keep your cashmere looking new, ensuring it remains a staple in your wardrobe for years to come.
1. Washing Cashmere: Gentle Yet Effective
Cashmere’s delicate fibers demand a gentle washing routine. Whether you choose to hand wash or machine wash, following these tips will help maintain its softness and shape.
Hand Washing:
- Fill a Basin: Use lukewarm water and add a mild detergent or a cashmere-specific wash.
- Soak and Swirl: Gently submerge your cashmere item, swish it around without wringing or stretching.
- Rinse: Drain the soapy water, refill with clean water, and gently rinse until all detergent is removed.
- Press: Press the excess water out gently, avoiding twisting or wringing.
Machine Washing:
- Use a Mesh Bag: Place your cashmere item in a mesh laundry bag to protect it.
- Cold Water and Delicate Cycle: Select the delicate or wool cycle on your washing machine, using cold water.
- Mild Detergent: Add a mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics.
Pro Tip: Avoid fabric softeners and bleach as they can damage cashmere fibers.
2. Drying Cashmere: Preserve Its Shape
Drying cashmere improperly can lead to misshapen garments and stretched fibers. Follow these steps for best results:
- Lay Flat to Dry: Place your cashmere item on a clean, dry towel on a flat surface.
- Shape Gently: Reshape the garment to its original dimensions by hand.
- Roll and Press: Roll the towel up with the cashmere inside to gently press out excess water.
- Air Dry: Unroll and leave the cashmere flat on a fresh towel to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Pro Tip: Never hang cashmere to dry as it can cause stretching.
3. Storing Cashmere: Avoid Damage
Proper storage protects your cashmere from damage and keeps it fresh for the next wear. Here’s how to store your cashmere garments:
- Clean Before Storing: Always wash cashmere before storing to remove body oils and dirt.
- Fold, Don’t Hang: Fold cashmere items to prevent stretching and place them in a breathable cotton bag or a drawer lined with tissue paper.
- Avoid Moths: Use natural repellents like cedar balls or lavender sachets to deter moths.
Pro Tip: Store your cashmere in a cool, dry place, avoiding plastic bags which can trap moisture.
4. Maintaining Cashmere: Keep It Looking Fresh
Routine maintenance keeps your cashmere looking plush and prevents unsightly pilling:
- De-Pill Regularly: Use a cashmere comb or a fabric shaver to gently remove any pills that form from wear.
- Rotate Wear: Allow your cashmere items to rest between wears to let fibers recover their shape.
- Spot Clean: Treat stains immediately with a mild detergent and cold water, blotting gently without rubbing.
Pro Tip: Invest in a high-quality cashmere comb for regular maintenance.
5. When to Seek Professional Help
For tough stains or if you're unsure about washing, professional cleaning is a safe option:
- Dry Clean: Opt for a reputable dry cleaner familiar with delicate fabrics.
- Specialty Cleaners: Some cleaners specialize in cashmere and other fine materials.
Pro Tip: Always inform the cleaner about the specific nature of the stain and any special care instructions.
Why Proper Care Matters
Proper care not only extends the life of your cashmere but also ensures it remains as luxurious as the day you bought it. Investing a little time in washing, drying, storing, and maintaining your cashmere can keep it soft, cozy, and stylish for many seasons.
Additional Tips and FAQs
Can I use regular detergent on cashmere?
It’s best to use a detergent specifically formulated for cashmere or wool to protect the delicate fibers.
How often should I wash my cashmere sweater?
Wash cashmere garments after several wears or when they’re visibly soiled. Over-washing can wear down the fibers.
Is it okay to iron cashmere?
Avoid ironing. Instead, steam out wrinkles by hanging the garment in a steamy bathroom or using a garment steamer on a low setting.
What should I do if my cashmere gets stretched?
Gently reshape the garment while it’s damp and let it dry flat.