Cashmere is a fine, soft wool that stays luxurious when hand washed gently in cool water. This shows you how to clean cashmere without felting or stretching it, and how to dry and store it so it lasts for years.
What you'll need
- A cashmere or gentle wool detergent
- Cool water
- A clean basin
- Two soft towels
Step by step
- Check the care labelConfirm the item is hand-washable. Most cashmere is, though some blended or structured pieces call for dry cleaning.
- Prepare cool, gentle waterFill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of detergent made for cashmere or delicate wool. Avoid hot water, which shrinks the fibers.
- Soak and swish gentlyTurn the item inside out, submerge it, and gently move it through the water for a couple of minutes. Do not rub or wring.
- Rinse thoroughlyDrain and refill with clean cool water, pressing to release the soap. Repeat until no suds remain, since residue stiffens cashmere.
- Press out water with a towelLay the piece on a towel, roll it up, and press to absorb moisture. Support its weight when lifting so it does not stretch.
- Dry flat and reshapeReshape the item on a fresh dry towel and let it air-dry flat, away from direct heat and sunlight.
Handy tips
- Wash cashmere inside out to protect the surface and reduce pilling.
- Gently remove pills with a cashmere comb or fabric shaver instead of picking at them by hand.
- Store cashmere folded in a drawer, ideally with cedar or lavender, to keep moths away.
Heads up
- Never wring, hang wet, or machine dry cashmere with heat, as these stretch or felt the delicate fibers. Hot water and harsh detergents can permanently damage it.
FAQ
Can cashmere go in the washing machine?
Only if the label allows and your machine has a hand-wash or wool cycle. Use cool water, a gentle detergent, and a mesh bag; otherwise hand wash it.
Why does my cashmere pill?
Pilling is normal from friction, especially early on. Gently shave or comb the pills off, and washing inside out helps reduce it over time.
How do I keep cashmere from smelling without frequent washing?
Air it out flat after wearing and give it a rest day between wears. Cashmere resists odor, so it rarely needs washing after every use.