How to wash cashmere

Cashmere is a precious and delicate fabric that requires special care to keep it soft, clean, and durable over time. Washing cashmere at home may seem like a challenge, but with the right instructions and precautions, it can be done without damaging it.

In this article, we will explain how to safely and effectively wash cashmere, avoiding ruining or shrinking it. We will also provide you with some tips for taking care of your cashmere garments and keeping them in the best condition.

How to recognize cashmere

Before proceeding with the guide on washing cashmere, it's important to know how to recognize it. Cashmere is a natural fiber obtained from the hair of the Hircus goat, native to Central Asia. The cashmere wool is very fine and soft to the touch, with a silky sheen.

Cashmere garments are generally expensive but last long if treated with care. To ensure that you have a garment made of real cashmere, check the label inside the garment to verify the percentage of cashmere present in the composition. Generally, a 100% cashmere garment will be softer and more durable than one mixed with other fibers.

• Note: Not all fabrics that look similar to cashmere are actually made of cashmere. Some synthetic or mixed fabrics may imitate the texture of cashmere, but they don't offer the same properties of softness and warmth.

Instructions for washing machine

If you decide to use a washing machine to wash your cashmere garment, follow these instructions carefully:

• Use a delicate cycle: Select the "delicate" or "wool" cycle on your washing machine. These cycles are specifically designed to protect delicate fabrics like cashmere.
• Use cold water: Make sure to set the water temperature to cold. Hot water can damage the fibers of cashmere and cause it to shrink.
• Hand wash: If you prefer, you can also opt for hand washing. Fill a basin with cold water and add specific detergent for delicate fabrics. Soak the garment in the solution and gently rub. Rinse well and press gently to remove excess water.
• No spin cycle: Avoid using the spin cycle function of the washing machine. Instead, gently remove excess water with a clean towel or absorbent cloth before laying it flat to dry.
• Drying: Never put cashmere in the dryer as this could cause irreparable damage to the fibers. Leave the garment lying flat on a dry surface, away from direct sunlight or sources of heat.

By following these instructions, you can safely wash your cashmere and keep it looking new for many years to come.

Instructions for hand washing

The best way to wash cashmere is by hand, as this delicate fabric requires special care. Follow these instructions to wash your cashmere garment by hand:

1. Fill a sink or tub with cold water.
2. Add a gentle detergent specifically for cashmere garments. Be sure to use only a small amount of detergent, as cashmere does not require much soap.
3. Place the cashmere garment in the water and gently press it to soften it. Do not rub or twist the fabric, otherwise you may damage it.
4. Soak for about 5-10 minutes, then rinse with cold water until the water is no longer soapy.
5. Empty the water from the sink or tub and gently squeeze the cashmere garment to remove excess water. Do not twist or wring the fabric, otherwise you risk deforming it.
6. Lay the garment on a clean towel and roll it gently to remove further moisture.
7. Lay the garment on a flat, dry surface such as a table or mat, and gently shape it back into its original form. Let it air dry away from direct heat sources such as sunlight or radiators.

By following these instructions, you can wash your cashmere garment by hand without damaging it and keep it soft and comfortable for a long time.

How to Dry Cashmere

After washing your cashmere garment, it's important to know how to dry it properly to avoid damaging the fabric.

Step 1: Absorb Excess Water

Firstly, do not wring out your cashmere garment to remove excess water. This action could damage the delicate fibers of the fabric. Instead, gently lay the garment on a clean towel and press it carefully to absorb excess water.

Step 2: Use a Drying Rack

Next, place the garment on a flat or hanging drying rack (such as those used for wet clothes). Never hang your cashmere garment on a hook or line as this may deform it.

Step 3: Let It Air Dry Naturally

Let your cashmere garment air dry naturally away from heat sources such as radiators or direct sunlight. These heat sources can cause shrinking or deformation of your cashmere garments.

Step 4: Gently Iron It

After your cashmere garment has completely dried, gently iron it with a low-temperature iron. Be sure to use a cloth between the iron and the fabric to avoid damage.

By following these simple steps, you can properly dry your cashmere garment and keep it in excellent condition for a long time.

Final Tips

Cleaning cashmere requires some attention, but by following these tips you can do it safely without damaging your garments.

1. Always read the label

Before washing your cashmere, make sure to carefully read the label to check for specific manufacturer instructions. This way you will avoid making mistakes that could damage the fabric.

2. Use only gentle detergents

To wash cashmere, use only gentle detergents specifically designed for wool or cashmere. Avoid harsh detergents or those containing bleach or fabric softeners, which can damage the delicate fibers of cashmere.

3. Lay garments flat to dry

After washing your cashmere by hand or on a delicate cycle in the washing machine, lay the garments flat on a clean towel to air dry naturally. Avoid hanging wet garments, as this could cause them to stretch or lose their shape.

4. Store garments properly

Store your cashmere garments folded and not hung to prevent them from stretching or losing their original shape. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.

• Remember not to use a dryer to dry cashmere, as this could damage the delicate fibers;
• Avoid rubbing or twisting cashmere garments during washing, as this could cause pilling;
• To remove any lint or pilling from your cashmere garments, use a special comb for delicate fabrics.

In summary, cashmere is a precious and delicate fabric that requires some special care during washing and daily maintenance.

Always remember to carefully read the labels of garments before washing them, using only gentle detergents specifically designed for cashmere and laying the garments flat to air dry naturally.

Conclusion

Washing cashmere may seem like a challenge, but by following these simple tips you can do it without any problems and keep your garments for a long time. Remember that cashmere is a precious and delicate fabric, but with the right care it can last for years while maintaining its softness and original beauty. With a little attention and care, you can enjoy your cashmere garments for a long time.