A complete guide on how to care for cashmere items, from getting rid of bobbles, moth holes, wash settings on how to retain the softness, the best way to fold them to storing for different climates.
Cashmere is one of the most luxurious and sought-after fabrics known for its softness, warmth, and timeless appeal. It is also incredibly durable and long-lasting. Sustainably sourced from the underbelly of Capra Hircus and handmade in the Himalayan mountain range, our cashmere shawls and pashminas are timeless wardrobe heroes that will last season after season.
It also deserves special care as it takes a special place in your wardrobe. Due to its delicate nature cashmere can lose its softness or become damaged if it is not handled properly. Unlike wool, cashmere fibres are finer and more fragile, so if they are not washed and stored correctly they are more prone to stretching, piling and even losing their natural luster. So in order to maintain its beauty, longevity and keep its pristine condition for years, right care is key.
In this article we explore all avenues for caring for cashmere from washing, drying to storing and restoring its softness. This can be applied to any of your cashmere items, shawls, pashminas, socks to anything else that is made from cashmere.
Caring for Cashmere
Handwashing cashmere from lukewarm water is considered the most safest option. It is gentle on the fabric, preserving its delicate fibres and softness. Less prone to damage compared to when cashmere is machine washed. Also avoid any harsh detergents (as they contain enzymes that break down protein fibres) and use a gentle washing detergent. Dip your cashmere clothing inside out into a clean bowl of lukewarm water. It is recommended to submerge in the water for about 5-10 minutes (do not fully soak). Gently squeeze or press to remove excess water and do not wring. Visit our blog on How to Wash Cashmere to get more insights into and detailed steps on how to handwash cashmere and what cleaning products to use.
Pro tip; don’t forget to lay your cashmere garments flat to dry, keeping away from direct sunlight or heat. Hanging cashmere products on a clothing line will distort it.
Storing Cashmere
The best way to store cashmere is folded in an acid-free tissue paper or a cloth bag. Neatly folded in a cardboard/gift box is the next best option. These will keep them in the best shape and pristine conditions. We highly recommend using cedar balls or cedar oil in your wardrobe and drawers to keep the moths away. Visit our blog on The Ultimate Guide for additional tips on care for your cashmere.
Pro tip; just like when drying cashmere, make sure they are not hanging on a hanger, to prevent stretching. Keep your cashmere shawls, scarves and pashminas neatly folded away in your wardrobe.
Repairing Cashmere
To remove bobbles, also known as pilling, lay your cashmere piece completely flat on a clean surface and use a pilling comb, a soft-bristled garment brush or a fabric shaver designed for delicate fabrics and gently brush the fabric to remove all the bobbles. Pilling on cashmere will lessen over time after a few hand washes. A lint roller is also helpful in de pilling cashmere.
Smaller moth holes on cashmere shawls and pashminas can easily be fixed with a fusible bonding web. Visit our blog on How To Repair Moth Holes for a detailed guide on the process.