Get Wrinkles Out of Cashmere

Why Cashmere Wrinkles

Cashmere wrinkles when the fibers are compressed or folded under pressure for extended periods. Storage creases, packing wrinkles, and fold lines from drawer storage are the most common causes. Unlike synthetic fabrics, cashmere does not have "memory" that snaps the fiber back to its original position — it needs heat and moisture to relax.

The good news: cashmere wrinkles are easy to remove with gentle methods. The bad news: the most obvious method — ironing — is the one most likely to damage the fiber.

Method 1: Handheld Steamer (Best Method)

A handheld garment steamer is the safest and most effective tool for cashmere wrinkles. The steam relaxes the fibers without any direct contact or pressure.

How to Do It

1. Hang the sweater on a padded hanger or lay it flat on a clean surface
2. Hold the steamer 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) from the fabric
3. Move in slow, vertical passes from top to bottom
4. Let the steam penetrate the fabric — do not press the steamer head against the cashmere
5. For stubborn creases, hold the steamer closer (4-5 inches) for a few extra seconds on the crease line
6. Let the sweater cool and dry for 10 minutes before wearing or folding

Important: Do not touch the steamer nozzle to the fabric. Direct contact with a hot metal plate can scorch fine cashmere or leave water spots. The steam does the work from a distance.

Method 2: Damp Towel Method (No Equipment Needed)

If you do not own a steamer, this method works using items you already have.

1. Lay the wrinkled cashmere flat on a clean surface
2. Dampen a clean cotton towel with water — wring until it is damp but not dripping
3. Place the damp towel over the wrinkled area
4. Press down gently with your hands — no rubbing, just even pressure
5. Leave the towel in place for 15-20 minutes
6. Remove the towel and smooth the cashmere with your palms
7. Lay flat to finish drying

The moisture and gentle weight of the damp towel relax the fibers without any heat risk. This method is slower than steaming but equally safe.

Method 3: Bathroom Steam Trick

A quick fix when traveling or in a hurry:

1. Hang the cashmere sweater on a padded hanger in the bathroom
2. Run a hot shower with the bathroom door closed
3. Let the steam fill the room for 10-15 minutes (you do not need to be showering — just running the water)
4. The ambient steam relaxes the wrinkles
5. Remove the sweater and lay it flat to dry before wearing

This method is gentler than direct steaming because the steam is diffused and cooler by the time it reaches the fabric. It works well for light storage wrinkles and travel creases but may not fully remove deep-set fold lines.

Why You Should Not Iron Cashmere

A standard iron damages cashmere in several ways:

• Heat: Even the lowest setting on most irons exceeds the safe temperature for cashmere fibers
• Pressure: The weight of the iron compresses the fiber's natural loft, creating shiny flat spots
• Steam burst: The concentrated steam from an iron can leave water marks on cashmere
• Scorching: A momentary pause in movement can scorch the fiber, leaving a permanent mark

If you absolutely must use an iron (no steamer, no time for the damp towel method):

• Set to the lowest possible temperature
• Turn the sweater inside out
• Place a clean, damp cotton pressing cloth between the iron and the cashmere
• Never let the iron rest in one spot — keep it moving
• Use the steam function sparingly

This is a last resort, not a recommended practice. A $30 handheld steamer is a better investment for anyone who owns cashmere.

Preventing Wrinkles

• Fold along natural garment lines — fold at the waist and along the sleeves, not randomly
• Do not overstack — heavy items on top of cashmere create compression wrinkles
• Stuff arms with tissue paper for travel or long-term storage
• Use breathable garment bags rather than stuffing cashmere loosely in a drawer
• Rotate which sweater is on top of the stack to distribute compression evenly

For full storage guidelines, see our cashmere storage guide.