Cashmere Garment Care
Most of us have probably ruined a cashmere sweater or two. The truth is that cashmere, like most wool care, is simple habits, like letting it rest, storing it flat and brushing it gently. It rarely needs washing, and when it does, it just needs a little extra attention.
Rest cashmere garments between wears
Let cashmere rest for at least 24 hours between wears, so the fibers can relax and return to their shape.
Store cashmere properly
Store knitwear folded flat in a drawer, never on a hanger, as it stretches the knit. Let it air over a chair after wear before folding, and don’t pack it too tightly. If a sweater is on a hanger, take it off from underneath, never pull the hanger through the neckline.
Wash cashmere as little as possible
Cashmere breathes, so it rarely needs washing, and too much washing wears it down. Air it or give it a gentle steam to freshen up (the bathroom while you shower works well). Between wears, brush it lengthwise with a soft garment brush to remove dust and dirt.
Wash cashmere carefully
When it does need a wash, follow the care label. Hand wash in cool water (max 30°C) with a delicate detergent and gently press out the water, never wring. If the label allows machine washing, use the wool or hand wash program at 30°C, with similar colors only.
Spot treat stains
Treat stains straight away with a solution made for that stain and let it air dry. It saves you from washing the whole garment.
Dry cashmere garments flat
Dry flat on a towel. Hanging stretches the knit and tumble drying shrinks it. Reshape it while damp, especially the ribs and length, which contract in the wash, and make sure it is completely dry before storing.
Avoid moths
Cashmere is a protein fiber, which attracts moths. Food stains and body oils attract them even more, so only store garments clean and dry, ideally with cedar wood or moth balls. For summer storage, use a breathable natural material, never plastic, which traps moisture and static and can discolor the knit.
Pilling on cashmere garments
A cashmere comb is included with each virgin-cashmere sweater. Cashmere naturally pills during the first wears, as short, loose fibers work their way to the surface. A cashmere comb lifts them away and restores the smooth finish of the knit.
Lay your garment on a flat surface. Make sure it is clean and completely dry.
With one hand, hold the knit flat just above the area you are combing so it doesn’t stretch.
With the other hand, hold the comb at a slight angle and comb in short, gentle downward strokes, one small section at a time.
Clear the pills from the comb, then move on to the next section. Focus on high-friction areas, such as the underarms, inner sleeves and sides of the body.
A note on combing: every stroke lifts a few fibers from the surface. Comb only when pills appear, so your cashmere keeps its fullness for longer.