Cashmere sweaters and garments: tips for washing them at home without damaging them

A cashmere sweater, soft and enveloping, is a real pleasure on cold days. Moreover, it's a highly prized and delicate material deserving of careful attention to ensure its long-term life. Given the value and delicacy of cashmere garments, these are the type of clothing items that are preferably taken to a professional dry cleaner when needed.

Nevertheless, with proper precautions, washing a cashmere sweater at home is not impossible. Let's explore some useful tips together:

Hand wash cashmere

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Washing cashmere in a machine should be avoided, and hand washing is the preferred method. Begin by carefully reading and following the washing instructions on the label. Use a large basin or a deep sink/bathtub filled with cold water to immerse the cashmere item in.

Choose a high-quality detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics or opt for natural alternatives like Marseille soap or baby shampoo. Use a small amount, mixing it in the water before immersing the items. Soak the garment for about ten minutes, gently pressing to ensure thorough saturation. Remove and compress between your hands to release excess water.

Rinse by moving the item in fresh water, changing it each time until no more soap comes out. Handle with care to avoid twisting or deforming. For drying, lay cashmere items flat on a clean towel, avoiding the dryer to prevent deformation. You can speed up the process by rolling the item in a towel to absorb excess water. Use another dry towel when laying it out.

In 12-24 hours, your cashmere garment will be dry!

Is machine washing possible?

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Well, let's state again that machine washing is not the recommended method, but you can attempt this with some precautions:

• For the detergent, follow the previous guidelines - and if using shampoo, use a minimal amount to prevent excessive foaming.
• Opt for a delicate wash cycle with cold water, removing or minimizing the spin cycle.
• Place the garment in a net laundry bag to protect it during washing.
• DO NOT use the dryer.

With these precautions, a machine wash should be successful (but don't do this if you have any doubts).

Have you ever tried washing cashmere at home?