How to Wash Cashmere: The Complete Care Guide
How to Wash Cashmere Without Damaging It
Cashmere is soft, lightweight, naturally warm, and delicate by nature. With the right care, a well-made cashmere sweater can remain a favorite for years.
The good news is that cashmere usually does not need to be washed after every wear. Allowing it to rest and air out between wears can reduce unnecessary washing and give the fibers time to recover. When cleaning is necessary, the safest approach is to follow the garment's care label and handle the knit gently.
How Often Should You Wash Cashmere?
Cashmere does not need to be washed every time you wear it.
After a short wear, especially when the sweater has been layered over another garment, airing it out is often enough. Give the piece time to rest between wears rather than immediately putting it through another wash.
Wash it when it has absorbed body oils, picked up an odor, or has a visible stain.
This simple habit can help preserve the softness and shape of the fibers over time.
Can You Wash Cashmere at Home?
Yes, many cashmere garments can be cared for at home, but the garment's care label should always come first.
For pieces that are suitable for hand washing, cool water and a gentle cleanser are commonly recommended. The key is to minimize friction and avoid anything that can distort the knit.
If the care label specifically recommends professional cleaning, follow that instruction instead.
How to Hand Wash Cashmere
For a cashmere sweater that is suitable for hand washing, use this simple process.
1. Fill a basin with cool water
Use cool water rather than hot water. Hot water and sudden temperature changes can be harsh on delicate fibers.
2. Add a gentle cleanser
Use a cleanser formulated for delicate wool or natural fibers. Avoid aggressive detergents or products designed for heavy-duty washing.
3. Place the sweater in the water
Gently submerge the garment and allow the water and cleanser to work through the fibers.
Do not scrub aggressively.
4. Avoid twisting or wringing
This is one of the most important steps.
Do not twist, wring, or pull the sweater. These actions can distort the shape of the knit.
Instead, gently press the water through the garment.
5. Rinse gently
Remove the cleanser with cool, clean water. Continue gently until the water runs clear.
6. Remove excess water carefully
Do not wring the sweater.
Place it on a clean towel and gently press out excess moisture. Rolling the sweater inside the towel can help absorb additional water without putting stress on the fibers.
Can You Machine Wash a Cashmere Sweater?
Do not assume that every cashmere sweater is machine washable.
Some products may be designed for machine washing, but this depends on the garment's construction and care instructions. A search for a “machine washable cashmere sweater” does not mean that every cashmere garment should be treated this way.
Always check the care label before putting cashmere in a washing machine.
When a label permits machine washing, use the gentlest appropriate cycle and follow the garment-specific instructions carefully.
For more effortless layering options, explore our Cashmere Cardigans collection.
What Detergent Should You Use for Cashmere?
Choose a gentle cleanser made for delicate natural fibers or wool.
The goal is to clean the garment without stripping away the softness of the fibers.
Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, and aggressive stain treatments unless the garment's care instructions specifically allow them.
For a small spot, address it gently rather than washing the entire sweater unnecessarily.
How to Dry Cashmere Properly
Drying is just as important as washing.
Never hang a wet cashmere sweater to dry. The weight of the water can stretch the shoulders and change the shape of the garment.
Instead:
Lay the sweater flat on a clean towel.
Gently reshape it while it is still damp.
Allow it to dry flat away from direct heat and strong sunlight.
Do not use a high-heat dryer unless the care label specifically says it is safe.
L’emi's existing cashmere guidance consistently recommends flat drying and reshaping damp pieces rather than hanging them.
How to Prevent Shrinking, Stretching and Pilling
Cashmere needs a light touch.
To help preserve its shape, avoid excessive friction, twisting, and pulling. Let sweaters rest between wears and fold them rather than hanging them.
Pilling is also a normal part of wearing fine cashmere, particularly in areas where friction occurs, such as under the arms or along the sides. It does not automatically mean that the garment is poor quality.
When pills appear, a cashmere comb or fabric shaver can be used lightly to refresh the surface.
How Should You Store Cashmere?
Always store cashmere clean and fully dry.
Fold sweaters rather than hanging them, especially for long-term storage. Hanging can stretch the shoulders and gradually distort the shape.
For seasonal storage, a breathable storage bag can help protect the garment. L’emi also recommends natural cedar protection as a way to discourage moths.
When Should You Dry Clean Cashmere?
Professional cleaning may be appropriate for some cashmere garments, especially when the care label specifically recommends it or when the piece has a difficult stain or special construction.
The care label should always take priority over general washing advice.
For everyday pieces that are suitable for hand washing, gentle home care can be a practical alternative to frequent professional cleaning.
Cashmere Care: A Simple Routine
The best cashmere care routine does not have to be complicated.
Let the sweater rest between wears.
Air it out when a full wash is not necessary.
Follow the care label.
Use cool water and a gentle cleanser when hand washing is appropriate.
Never twist or wring.
Dry flat and reshape while damp.
Fold rather than hang.
Remove pills gently when needed.
With a little patience, these simple habits can help maintain the softness, shape, and character that make cashmere worth wearing again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash cashmere with regular detergent?
It is better to use a gentle cleanser formulated for delicate natural fibers or wool rather than a harsh everyday detergent.
Does cashmere shrink when washed?
Cashmere can be sensitive to improper washing and drying. Following the care label, using cool water, avoiding aggressive handling, and drying flat can help reduce the risk of shrinkage and distortion.
Can I hang cashmere to dry?
It is better to dry cashmere flat. A wet sweater can become heavy and stretch while hanging.
How often should I wash a cashmere sweater?
Not after every wear. Airing and resting the sweater between wears is often sufficient unless it is visibly soiled or has absorbed an odor.
How do I remove pilling from cashmere?
Use a cashmere comb or fabric shaver gently. Avoid pulling pills aggressively from the surface.
