Washing and caring for cashmere clothing
Cashmere clothing rarely needs to be washed. The soft wool from cashmere goats has natural self-cleaning properties, which limits the need for washing. In many cases, it is actually enough to air your cashmere clothing outside or in a damp bathroom.
But if you have a cashmere sweater , poncho or scarf that you need to wash, it can be done by hand or by machine. And in fact, many people find that their cashmere clothes become softer after washing. High-quality cashmere becomes nicer and softer when it is used and washed with love.
Hand wash cashmere
When hand washing your cashmere textiles, the water should be at a temperature of 30℃. To protect your clothes as much as possible, always use a detergent that is designed for washing wool. And there is no need to let cashmere soak for a long time. A few minutes is enough. It is important not to wring the water out of the product, but instead squeeze it gently.
Machine wash cashmere
Did you know that washing cashmere in a machine is more gentle than washing it by hand? Washing cashmere in a machine reduces friction compared to hand washing. And with machine washing, you can also be sure that the right temperature is maintained.
Set the washing machine to a wool program that does not exceed 30℃. Avoid fabric softener and use a detergent designed for wool washing so that the clothes get properly clean despite the low temperatures.
How to dry your cashmere clothes
When drying cashmere, it is best to lay the product flat on a dry towel. If necessary, gently roll the towel together with the cashmere garment to squeeze out excess water without twisting the fabric. Avoid hanging your cashmere product on a hanger, as the hanger can pull the fabric out of its original shape and cause the garment to lose its silhouette. Let it dry naturally and avoid direct sunlight, as this can fade the colors over time. Always make sure the garment is lying flat to maintain its original shape and structure.
Ironing cashmere
If you need to iron your cashmere, you can do so with steam on the wool setting of your iron, which is typically set to medium heat. Make sure to have a towel or tea towel between the iron and your cashmere garment to protect the garment from the heat.
Remove stains gently
Most stains should come off in a normal wash as described above. However, if you experience stubborn stains on your cashmere garment, we recommend that you take it to a dry cleaner to have the stain removed.
Avoid lint on your cashmere clothes
It is normal for cashmere to fuzz a little. However, high-quality cashmere, such as the one we use at Nordic Weaving, generally fuzzes less than cheaper versions. If you need to remove the fuzz, you can lay the cashmere on a flat surface such as a table or ironing board. Then you can gently remove the 'fuzz' with a fine-toothed comb, your fingers or an electric lint remover. Remember that cashmere fuzzes less and less with washing and use.
Frequently asked questions
What is cashmere made of?
Cashmere comes from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats that live in cold mountain regions like the Himalayas. Their wool is extremely soft and fine, which is what makes cashmere one of the most luxurious fibers in the textile industry.
How much does cashmere shrink?
Cashmere can shrink if not washed properly. Hand washing in cold water and avoiding high heat when drying can minimize the risk of shrinkage.
Can cashmere withstand rain?
Cashmere is not waterproof, but it can withstand light rain. However, if it gets soaked, it can lose some of its shape and softness, especially if it is not dried properly. Therefore, it is best to avoid heavy rain.
Is cashmere soft?
Yes, cashmere is known for its exceptional softness and comfort, making it a popular fiber for clothing.
Can you get stains out of your cashmere clothes?
Yes, cashmere can get stains just like any other fabric. It is important to act quickly to remove stains properly without damaging the fibers.
Is cashmere self-cleaning?
Cashmere has certain properties that make it less likely to absorb odors, but it is not completely self-cleaning. Regular washing is necessary to keep it clean.
Why is cashmere so expensive?
A cashmere goat only produces about 2-300 grams of cashmere in a whole year. The hair is 'harvested' in the spring, when it is about to shed its 'winter coat' anyway. It is a scarce resource because relatively little of it is produced worldwide. And because it is so rare, it is priced accordingly.
