How to Wash and Care for Cashmere Sweaters

Washing Cashmere

Hand washing is the gold standard. Fill a basin with cool water (never hot — heat causes cashmere to shrink and felt) and add a small amount of gentle detergent formulated for wool or cashmere. Submerge the sweater and press it gently through the water. Do not wring, twist, or rub — cashmere fibers are delicate when wet.

Rinse in clean cool water until the detergent is gone. You may need two or three rinses. Press the sweater gently against the side of the basin to remove excess water — again, never wring.

Machine washing is possible on a wool or delicate cycle in a mesh laundry bag. Use cold water and a wool-safe detergent. Skip the spin cycle if your machine allows it, or use the lowest spin setting.

Drying

Never hang cashmere to dry. The weight of the water will stretch it permanently out of shape. Instead, lay the sweater flat on a clean, dry towel. Reshape it gently to its original dimensions and smooth out any wrinkles. Allow it to air dry completely away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Drying typically takes 12 to 24 hours depending on humidity. Flip the sweater once during drying for even results. Never put cashmere in a dryer.

Dealing with Pilling

Some pilling is normal, especially in the first few wears and in areas of friction like under the arms. Use a cashmere comb or a battery-powered fabric shaver to gently remove pills. Work in one direction, applying minimal pressure.

Higher-quality cashmere with longer fibers will pill less over time. Budget cashmere may pill continuously. Regular gentle de-pilling actually improves the appearance of a cashmere sweater over time.

Storage

Always store cashmere folded — never on hangers, which will stretch the shoulders. Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter moths, which are cashmere's natural enemy. Store in a breathable garment bag or a closed drawer, not in plastic, which traps moisture.

Give your cashmere sweaters a day of rest between wears. This allows the fibers to recover their shape and natural loft.