Cashmere sweaters are a luxurious addition to any wardrobe, offering warmth, softness, and style. However, they require proper care to maintain their softness and prevent damage.
One of the key aspects of caring for cashmere is learning how to wash it correctly. While many people believe cashmere should only be dry-cleaned, you can easily wash cashmere sweaters at home with the right methods.
In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of how to wash cashmere sweaters at home, ensuring your garments stay in top condition.
Table of Contents
- Why Wash Cashmere at Home?
- Understanding Cashmere Fiber
- How Often Should You Wash Cashmere?
- Supplies You Need to Wash Cashmere Sweaters at Home
- Handwashing Cashmere Sweaters: Step-by-Step Guide
- Machine Washing Cashmere Sweaters
- Drying Cashmere Sweaters
- Dealing with Pilling
- Storing Cashmere Sweaters
- Final Thoughts
Why Wash Cashmere at Home?
Cashmere is known for its delicate fibers, which require gentle handling. Traditionally, dry cleaning was the go-to method for cleaning cashmere, but home washing is now considered safe if done properly. Washing cashmere at home can save you money, time, and the wear and tear of commercial cleaning processes. Additionally, washing it at home gives you more control over the process, ensuring your sweater stays soft and maintains its shape.
Understanding Cashmere Fiber
Before diving into the washing process, it’s important to understand the nature of cashmere. Cashmere comes from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats, and these fibers are finer and more delicate than wool. As a result, they can be prone to shrinking, pilling, and stretching if not washed properly. The high-quality fibers are sensitive to water temperature, detergent, and agitation. Knowing how to handle cashmere properly will ensure it remains soft, warm, and luxurious for years.
How Often Should You Wash Cashmere?
Cashmere sweaters do not need to be washed after every wear. In fact, washing them too frequently can lead to damage. To keep your cashmere in the best condition, follow these guidelines:
- Wear it 3-5 times before washing: Cashmere is naturally resistant to odors and dirt, so you can wear it multiple times before it needs to be cleaned.
- Spot clean: For small stains or spills, spot cleaning can often be sufficient. Avoid washing the entire sweater unless it’s necessary.
- Air out: After wearing, hang your sweater in a well-ventilated area to allow any moisture or odors to dissipate naturally.
By avoiding unnecessary washes, you will extend the life of your cashmere garment.
Supplies You Need to Wash Cashmere Sweaters at Home
To ensure the best results when washing cashmere at home, you’ll need a few essential supplies:
- Mild detergent: Choose a detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics or wool, such as a cashmere or wool wash. Avoid using regular laundry detergent, as it can be too harsh for delicate fibers.
- Cold water: Always wash cashmere in cold water to prevent shrinking or distortion of the fibers.
- A basin or sink: Use a clean, flat surface or a large basin for handwashing your sweater. Avoid washing cashmere directly in the washing machine, as it can cause stretching and damage.
- Towels: Use clean towels to help with the drying process by absorbing excess moisture.
- A mesh laundry bag (optional): If you prefer to use a washing machine, place your sweater inside a mesh laundry bag to protect it from friction and snags.
Handwashing Cashmere Sweaters: Step-by-Step Guide
Handwashing is the safest and gentlest way to wash your cashmere sweater at home. Follow these simple steps to clean your sweater while maintaining its softness.
1. Prepare the Wash Basin
Start by filling a clean basin or sink with cool or lukewarm water. Never use hot water, as it can shrink and damage the delicate cashmere fibers. Add a small amount of mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics to the water and mix it gently to create suds. Be sure to use only a little detergent, as too much can be difficult to rinse out and could cause a build-up that damages the fibers.
2. Submerge the Sweater
Gently place your cashmere sweater into the water, ensuring it is fully submerged. Avoid scrubbing or wringing the fabric, as this can stretch and damage the fibers. Instead, gently press the sweater into the water to allow the detergent to penetrate the fibers. Let the sweater soak for 10-15 minutes to loosen any dirt or oils.
3. Gently Agitate
After soaking, gently agitate the water by lightly moving the sweater in the water with your hands. Do not twist or rub the fabric, as this can cause it to lose its shape or shrink. Be gentle and avoid any excessive motion to keep the fibers intact.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
Once the sweater has been thoroughly cleaned, it’s time to rinse it. Drain the soapy water and replace it with clean, cool water. Gently agitate the sweater again to help remove the detergent. Repeat this process until the water runs clear and all soap has been removed.
5. Remove Excess Water
To remove excess water, never wring or twist the sweater. Instead, gently press the fabric against the side of the basin or sink to remove as much water as possible. Alternatively, you can roll the sweater in a clean, dry towel to absorb the excess moisture. Be careful not to stretch the fabric during this step.
Machine Washing Cashmere Sweaters
If you prefer to use a washing machine, it’s possible to wash your cashmere sweater in a machine, but extra caution is required. Follow these guidelines to machine wash your cashmere sweater safely.
1. Use a Mesh Laundry Bag
Place your cashmere sweater inside a mesh laundry bag to protect it from friction and potential damage during the wash cycle. This will help prevent pilling and stretching.
2. Select the Right Settings
Set your washing machine to the delicate or wool cycle. These cycles use a slower spin speed and shorter wash times, which help prevent damage to delicate fabrics like cashmere. Use cold water to wash your sweater, as warm or hot water can cause shrinking.
3. Choose a Mild Detergent
Just like handwashing, use a mild detergent that is designed for delicates or wool. Avoid harsh chemicals and opt for a gentle liquid detergent to protect the fibers.
4. Wash Separately
It’s important to wash your cashmere sweater separately from other clothes. Washing it with other garments, especially those with zippers, buttons, or rough textures, can lead to snagging or pilling.
Drying Cashmere Sweaters
Proper drying is essential for preserving the softness and shape of your cashmere sweater. Never put cashmere in the dryer, as the heat and tumbling can cause the fibers to shrink or lose their softness.
1. Lay Flat to Dry
After washing, gently reshape your cashmere sweater and lay it flat on a clean, dry towel. Avoid hanging the sweater, as this can cause stretching. Place the sweater on a flat surface to dry, ensuring that it is evenly supported to maintain its shape.
2. Use Towels to Absorb Moisture
To speed up the drying process, roll the sweater in a clean towel to absorb excess water. Press gently to remove the moisture. You can also place additional towels underneath the sweater to help with absorption.
3. Air Dry
Allow your sweater to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can cause the fibers to become brittle and lose their softness. Depending on the thickness of the sweater and the room’s humidity, drying may take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours.
Dealing with Pilling
Pilling is a common issue with cashmere, as the fibers naturally shed over time. Fortunately, there are simple ways to remove pills and keep your sweater looking fresh.
1. Use a Cashmere Comb or Fabric Shaver
To remove pilling, use a cashmere comb or fabric shaver. Gently run the comb or shaver over the surface of the sweater to remove any pills without damaging the fabric. Be careful not to apply too much pressure.
2. Hand Wash Regularly
Regular handwashing can help prevent excessive pilling by removing the dirt and oils that contribute to fiber friction. Avoid excessive rubbing or friction during the washing process, as this can cause more pilling.
Storing Cashmere Sweaters
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and longevity of your cashmere sweater. When not in use, follow these tips to protect your garments:
- Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing cashmere in humid areas, as moisture can damage the fibers.
- Use breathable garment bags: When storing cashmere for an extended period, place it in a breathable cotton garment bag to protect it from dust and dirt.
- Avoid hanging: Always fold cashmere sweaters instead of hanging them, as hanging can cause stretching.
Final Thoughts
Washing cashmere sweaters at home is easy and cost-effective when done with the right techniques. By handwashing or using the delicate cycle on your washing machine, along with the proper drying and storage methods, you can keep your cashmere looking beautiful for years to come. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the luxurious feel of cashmere without the worry of damage or wear.
