Introduction
Cashmere is luxurious, soft, and delicate—meaning it requires special handling when it comes to cleaning. Using the wrong products or techniques can cause shrinking, stretching, or pilling. With the right approach, you can safely freshen and preserve your cashmere sweater at home.
What You'll Need
Steps
Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of wool-safe detergent.
Submerge the cashmere sweater and gently swirl—do not stretch or wring the fabric.
Let the sweater soak for 10–15 minutes to loosen dirt and oils.
Rinse thoroughly with cold water until all detergent is removed.
Press—don’t twist—the sweater between your hands to remove excess water.
Lay the sweater flat on a clean towel, roll the towel up, and press to absorb remaining moisture.
Reshape the sweater and place it flat on a drying rack to air dry completely.
Use a fabric shaver to remove any light pilling once dry.
Alternative Methods
• Spot clean small stains using a dab of diluted detergent and a soft cloth
• Use a mesh bag and a delicate cycle if the label explicitly says machine washable
• Take valuable or heavily soiled pieces to a professional cleaner
What NOT to Do
• Do not use hot water—it will shrink cashmere
• Do not hang the sweater to dry, as it will stretch
• Do not scrub aggressively or wring the fabric
FAQs
How often should I wash a cashmere sweater?
Cashmere only needs washing every 3–5 wears unless it becomes stained.
Can you dry clean cashmere?
Yes, most cashmere can be dry cleaned, but frequent dry cleaning may reduce softness over time.
Why does my cashmere pill?
Pilling occurs from friction and is normal for natural fibers; it can be removed gently with a fabric shaver.
This article is for informational purposes only. Always follow manufacturer instructions and use proper safety precautions. You assume all risk for any actions you take based on this guide.
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