How to care for cashmere

Handling cashmere 

• Cashmere is prone to pilling, typically in areas with more abrasion. This is part of the fabric’s natural process and not a sign of poor quality. Remove pilling with a cashmere comb.  

• If using a fabric shaver, gently hover it over the fabric without pressing down. 

• Be cautious with jewellery and bags that might snag the delicate fibres. 

• Rotate cashmere garments to give them time to rest between wears, allowing fibres to recover. 

   

Washing cashmere 

• Avoid washing your cashmere garments too frequently and opt out of dry cleaning, as harsh chemicals can damage delicate fibres. Choose hand washing when possible, and avoid bleach and fabric softeners. 

• Gently spot clean when possible with a damp cloth and wool detergent.  Don’t rub, to avoid pushing the stain deeper into the fibres. 

   

Hand washing 

• Fill a sink, tub, or basin with lukewarm water (30°C/86°F). 

• Add mild detergent, preferably one specifically for wool or cashmere. Make sure the detergent is evenly distributed and submerge the garment in the water. 

• Swirl the garment around for about a minute and let it soak for about 10 minutes. 

• Drain the soapy water and refill with clean, cold or lukewarm water. Gently press—don’t wring—the garment to remove detergent. Repeat until the water runs clear. 

   

Machine washing 

• Use a mesh washing bag to help protect the garment from agitation in the washer. 

• Add a mild detergent. 

• Select a gentle cycle at or below 30°C. 

   

Drying cashmere 

• Avoid wringing or twisting the garment to remove excess water. 

• Lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel and roll it up to press out moisture. 

• Lay the garment on a flat, dry towel or drying rack, reshaping it to its original dimensions. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources. 

   

Storing cashmere 

• Ensure the cashmere product is clean before storing to avoid attracting moths. 

• Fold cashmere items instead of hanging them to prevent stretching and distortion. 

• Store in a cotton garment bag or a drawer with cedar balls or lavender sachets to repel moths. 

• If you find tiny holes in multiple sweaters, it's time for a closet cleanse. Empty everything out, then vacuum, spray, clean, and launder in phases. Steaming is also a good option for removing bug larvae.