Cashmere garments are prized for their softness and warmth, but they require careful cleaning to maintain their texture and shape. This guide provides practical steps to clean cashmere at home, using safe methods and recommended tools to extend the life of your delicate sweaters.
Quick Answer
For most cashmere pieces, wash by hand in cold water with a mild detergent, or use a specialized sweater washing method. Gently press out water—do not wring—air dry flat away from direct heat. Regularly remove pills with a dedicated pilling remover and refresh with a garment steamer to release wrinkles. Use a lint roller to remove surface fuzz between wears.
What You’ll Need
- Cashmere sweater wash bag for delicate laundry
- Pilling remover tool for cashmere sweaters
- Lint roller for sweaters and cashmere
- Garment steamer for delicates wool cashmere
- Sweater wash brush for cashmere
Before You Start
Check the care label on each cashmere item for specific instructions. Test any cleaning method on an inconspicuous area first to avoid damage. Work in a clean, well-lit area and ensure hands are dry when handling damp garments. Do not wring or twist cashmere, as this can distort the fabric and cause pilling. Plan a cleaning session when you have about 30 minutes to lay garments flat to dry.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Cashmere
- Sort items by color and fabric weight to prevent dye transfer and excessive agitation.
- Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent designed for delicates.
- Submerge the cashmere item and gently swish; avoid vigorous scrubbing which can stretch fibers.
- If using a sweater wash bag, place the garment inside and zip securely before washing.
- Rinse with cold water until no suds remain, supporting the fabric to prevent distortion.
- Gently press out excess water without wringing; roll the item in a towel to remove additional moisture.
- Lay flat on a clean surface to air dry, reshaping the garment to its original dimensions as it dries.
- Once dry, use a pilling remover tool to target any surface pills that formed during wear or washing.
- Refresh with a garment steamer to release wrinkles; keep the steamer a few inches away to avoid scorching.
- For maintenance between washes, run a lint roller over the surface to remove lint and fuzz.
- Inspect hems and seams for wear; address small issues promptly to prevent further damage.
- Store folded in a breathable container or garment bag to protect from moths and dust.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiny pills after wear | Natural fiber shedding | Use pilling remover tool for cashmere sweaters | Avoid harsh friction during wear; wash less frequently |
| Stretched cuffs or hems | Excessive agitation or wringing | Gently press out water; lay flat to dry | Wash in a delicate cycle or by hand; use wash bag |
| Color fading or dye bleed | Improper washing temperature | Use cold water and color-safe detergent | Wash darks separately; rinse thoroughly |
| Wrinkles that won’t smooth | Fibers set during drying | Steaming; avoid direct heat | Dry flat and store properly |
Common Mistakes
- Washing cashmere in hot water or with aggressive detergents
- Wringing or twisting the fabric to remove water
- Ignoring care labels and mixing cashmere with heavy sweaters
- Skipping a test spot before full cleaning
Tips For Best Results
- Wash cashmere pieces sparingly to reduce wear; spot clean small stains when possible
- Use a dedicated wash bag to cushion fibers during any machine-based cleaning
- Keep detergents mild and pH-balanced for delicate fabrics
- Air dry flat on a clean towel away from sunlight or heat sources
- Store clean cashmere in a breathable container with cedar or lavender sachets to deter moths
Call A Professional
Consider a professional cleaner if a garment has extensive staining, structural damage, or persistent odor. Stop using heat-based methods if you notice shrinking, misshapen fits, or fabric breakdown. Seek expert help for repairs beyond surface cleaning.
FAQ
Can cashmere be machine washed?
It can be washed in a delicate cycle with cold water and a mild detergent using a wash bag, but hand washing is generally safer for most pieces.
Is a garment steamer safe for cashmere?
Yes, when used with proper distance and on low heat, a garment steamer can refresh and release wrinkles without direct contact.
How often should I clean cashmere?
Clean sparingly and spot clean between wears; frequent washing can wear down fibers.
What’s the best way to remove pills?
Use a specialized pilling remover tool for cashmere sweaters and handle gently to avoid creating snags.
How should I store cashmere after cleaning?
Fold and store in a breathable container or bag, away from direct sunlight and moth-prone areas.
Buying Guide
When selecting tools to care for cashmere, consider factors like size and portability, noise level during use, energy efficiency, and ease of operation. A compact sweater wash brush for cashmere can help with gentle spot cleaning, while a garment steamer for delicates wool cashmere offers quick wrinkle release without immersion. A cashmere sweater wash bag for delicate laundry protects garments in cold water. A pilling remover tool for cashmere sweaters keeps fibers looking new between cleanings, and a lint roller for sweaters and cashmere makes quick touch-ups easy. Look for machine compatibility, durable materials, and clear care instructions to maximize value and results.