Cashmere Care Guide: How to Wash, Dry & Store Cashmere

Cashmere is a soft, luxurious fabric that feels great against the skin. It is made from the fine undercoat of cashmere goats and is known for its warmth, softness, and durability. Whether you have a cashmere blanket, scarf, or sweater, it is essential to understand how to wash it correctly. Improper washing techniques can lead to shrinkage, pilling, and damage to the delicate fibres. In this article, we will provide a guide on how to wash cashmere, as well as advice on stain removal and storage. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your cashmere garments remain soft, beautiful, and in top condition for years to come. Always read the care instructions specific to the cashmere products.

How to Wash Cashmere

1. Check the Care Label
   Before you begin washing your cashmere, it’s important to check the care label on your garment. The care label will tell you how to properly care for your cashmere, including washing instructions. If the care label says “dry clean only,” do not attempt to machine wash your cashmere garment.
2. Pre-Treat Stains
   If your cashmere garment has any stains, it’s important to pre-treat them before washing. Use a gentle stain remover or laundry detergent and gently rub the stain with a soft-bristled brush. Be sure to test the stain remover on a small, inconspicuous area of the garment first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric.
3. Use a Delicate Cycle
   When washing your cashmere garment, use a delicate cycle with cold water. Avoid using hot water, as it can shrink or damage the cashmere fibres. Bemboka recommends using phosphate-free liquid laundry detergents designed for delicate fabrics, and avoiding fabric softeners or bleach.
4. Place in a Mesh Bag
   To protect your cashmere garment during the washing process, place it in a mesh laundry bag. This will prevent it from getting tangled or damaged by other clothing items in the wash. Be sure to select a mesh bag that is large enough to accommodate your garment without cramming it in.
5. Wash and Rinse
   Start the washing cycle and let the machine do the work. Once the cycle is complete, remove the cashmere garment from the mesh bag and gently squeeze out any excess water.

How to Dry Cashmere

• • Dry Cleaning:
    If the care label of your cashmere garment specifies “dry clean only,” it is best to take it to a professional dry cleaner. Dry cleaning involves using a chemical solvent to clean the garment instead of water. After the cleaning process, the dry cleaner will typically use a machine to spin and extract excess solvent from the garment. Then, the garment is hung to dry in a well-ventilated area until it is completely dry. Dry cleaning is a safe and effective method to clean and dry cashmere garments without damaging the delicate fibres.
  • Line Drying:
    If the care label of your cashmere garment allows for hand washing or machine washing, it may also be suitable for line drying. To line dry your cashmere garment, follow these steps:
    • After washing your cashmere garment, gently squeeze out any excess water. Do not wring or twist the garment as this can damage the fibres.
    • Lay the garment flat on a clean towel and gently roll up the towel, pressing down lightly to absorb any remaining moisture.
    • Unroll the towel and lay the garment flat on a drying rack or clean, dry towel. Avoid hanging the garment as this can cause stretching or distortion of the shape.
    • Place the drying rack or towel in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Allow the garment to air dry completely before storing or wearing.
    • Line drying is a gentle and affordable way to dry your cashmere garments. It helps to maintain the shape and quality of the fibres while avoiding any potential shrinkage or damage. However, it may take longer to dry compared to other methods, and it requires more hands-on time and attention to ensure the garment dries properly.

How to Store Your Cashmere Garments

Proper storage is essential for keeping your cashmere garments looking and feeling their best. Follow these tips to ensure your cashmere stays in great condition:

1. Clean before storing: Always make sure your cashmere garments are clean before putting them away. Any dirt or oils left on the fabric can attract moths and other pests.
2. Fold, don’t hang: Cashmere should be folded, not hung, to prevent stretching and distortion. Use acid-free tissue paper or a cotton garment bag to protect the fabric and prevent it from getting crushed.
3. Use cedar or lavender: Moths are a common problem for cashmere, as they are attracted to the natural fibres. To deter moths, place cedar chips or lavender sachets in your storage area. Avoid using mothballs, as they contain harsh chemicals that can damage the fabric.
4. Store in a cool, dry place: Cashmere should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent mildew and damage from humidity. Avoid storing in direct sunlight or in damp areas such as basements or attics.
5. Check regularly: Check on your cashmere garments periodically to ensure they are still in good condition. If you notice any holes or damage, take the garment to a professional for repairs before storing it again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I wash cashmere?

Unlike some other fabrics, cashmere garments should not be washed frequently. In fact, over-washing can cause damage to the delicate fibres and shorten the lifespan of the garment.

It is recommended to wash cashmere blankets only when necessary, such as when they become visibly soiled, stained, or have absorbed unpleasant odours.

On the other hand, cashmere scarves and sweaters are usually worn directly against the skin, which means they can become soiled and absorb sweat and oils more quickly. If you wear your cashmere scarf or sweater frequently, you may need to wash it more often than your cashmere blanket.

Can I machine wash cashmere with other clothing items?

It’s best to wash cashmere separately from other clothing items to avoid damaging the delicate fibres. With bemboka, please dry clean only. Always follow the care instructions

Final Thoughts

There you have it! We hope this article was helpful for you. We are thrilled to have shared with you our expertise on caring for your precious cashmere items. At bemboka, we are committed to providing you with the utmost quality and luxury, which is why we highly recommend our pure cashmere range. Our cashmere blankets, throws, and scarves are made with the finest cashmere yarns, ensuring unrivalled softness and warmth. Experience the difference with bemboka. Browse our collection today and enjoy free shipping worldwide.