How to Care for Cashmere

By Jeeves of Belgravia New York - Expert Garment Care

How to care for cashmere at home

Cashmere is a delicate protein fiber, so the goal is to clean it gently, protect the fibers, and dry it without stretching. The biggest mistakes are using a harsh detergent, rubbing the fabric, and hanging it to dry.

Wash it with the right detergent

Use a detergent made for cashmere or other animal fibers. These formulas are designed without enzymes, bleach, or optical brighteners, and they usually include conditioner to keep the fibers soft and hydrated.

Avoid regular detergents when possible, especially enzyme-based ones. Enzymes can be too aggressive for protein fibers like cashmere and may contribute to damage over time.

Hand wash or use a gentle cycle

Hand washing is the safest option. Fill a basin with cool to lukewarm water, add the detergent, and gently press the sweater up and down. Let the water do the work.

If you trust your machine, use the gentlest cycle available. Put the item in a mesh bag if you have one, and keep the load small so the sweater is not tossed around.

What not to do

• Do not scrub or rub the fabric.
• Do not use hot water.
• Do not wring the sweater to remove water.

Rubbing creates friction, which can damage fibers and cause pilling faster.

Dry flat every time

After washing, squeeze out excess water gently, then roll the sweater in a clean towel to remove more moisture. Reshape it and lay it flat on a dry towel or drying rack.

Never hang cashmere while it is wet. The weight of the water can stretch the garment out of shape. Tumble drying is also a bad idea because it can shrink and damage the fibers.

Deal with pills carefully

Cashmere can pill with wear, and that is normal. Use a depilling comb, fabric shaver, or a very gentle razor only on a flat surface. Work slowly so you remove fuzz balls without thinning the knit.

Store it clean and protected

Always put cashmere away clean. Sweat, body oil, and food residue can attract moths, so even invisible stains matter. For off-season storage, use breathable garment bags or storage bags that protect from moths while still allowing airflow.

If a cashmere piece is heavily stained, misshapen, or labeled dry clean only, professional cleaning is the safest choice.

Quick cashmere care routine

1. Use a cashmere-safe detergent.
2. Wash gently by hand or on a delicate cycle.
3. Rinse well and remove water without wringing.
4. Dry flat and reshape.
5. Depill carefully when needed.
6. Store clean in a breathable bag.