To wash cashmere, hand washing is best: submerge the garment in lukewarm water with a small amount of cashmere-specific detergent, gently squeeze the suds through without wringing or stretching, rinse in cool water, then press out the water and lay it flat on a towel to air dry away from heat. If you must machine wash, use a mesh bag, cold water, a delicate short cycle, and the lowest spin. Never wring cashmere or hang it to dry — the weight of the water stretches the fibers out of shape.
Cashmere needs specialized care, and the fear of shrinking or damaging such a luxurious fabric makes washing it feel stressful. But with the right approach, keeping your cashmere soft and in shape is entirely achievable. Here’s how.
How do you read a cashmere care label?
The small care label stitched into your cashmere holds the key to maintaining it. You’ll find symbols for washing (a bucket), bleaching (a triangle), and drying (a square), alongside the textile content — a roadmap to caring for the garment without risking damage. Labels marked “dry-clean only” or “hand-wash” give you a clear directive for the safest approach.
Can you machine wash cashmere?
Generally, cashmere is best kept out of the machine — hand washing preserves its softness and structure, and harsh cycles can distress the fibers and dull the fabric. If you do machine wash, use a delicate wash bag, cold water, a gentle short cycle, and a cashmere-specific detergent to protect the yarn and prevent pilling.
Hand wash or dry clean?
Hand washing is the gold standard for cashmere — fine fibers benefit from a gentle wash over the mechanical processes of dry cleaning. If you prefer professional treatment, choose a reputable cleaner that specifically handles luxury textiles, so your cashmere gets the careful attention it needs.
How do you hand wash cashmere?
Hand washing seems daunting but is straightforward with the right approach.
Step by step
- Prepare: mix a small amount of cashmere-specific detergent into a basin of lukewarm water.
- Wash: submerge the garment and gently squeeze the suds through, without wringing or stretching.
- Rinse: replace the soapy water with clean, cool water and press the detergent out without rough handling.
- Dry: lay the item flat on a towel, roll it up to absorb moisture, then air-dry away from direct heat.
Drying is as important as the wash — never wring cashmere; always press and roll.
Choosing the right detergent
Use a wash made specifically for cashmere — ideally gentle, pH-neutral, and free of harsh chemicals, so it cleans effectively while guarding against shrinkage and preserving the luxurious feel. A reputable fine-fabric brand is worth it to avoid unwelcome surprises on wash day.
How do you machine wash cashmere safely?
If your garment’s label allows it, the right prep and settings keep machine-washed cashmere looking new.
Prepare the garment
Pre-treat any minor stains or spots first — careful spot-cleaning can save the look without a full wash. Check the garment for pilling and gently remove pills with a cashmere comb or pilling stone, avoiding excessive force that could damage the fibers. Set up your workspace before you start: a basin of lukewarm water, cashmere-appropriate detergent, and clean white towels for drying, so the cashmere doesn’t sit in water longer than necessary.
Set the correct cycle
- Delicate cycle, cold water: cashmere is sensitive to heat and agitation. Use a mesh laundry bag to reduce friction with the drum and other garments.
- Shortest cycle available: the less time in the wash, the better the fibers, color, and shape hold up.
- No spin or a slow spin: this prevents the pulling and stretching that distorts the knit structure.
As with hand washing, a specialized cashmere washing liquid or shampoo gives the best results, since it’s formulated for the fiber’s softness, structure, and longevity.
How do you dry cashmere without damaging it?
Air drying flat is the only safe method. After washing, gently squeeze out excess water — never wring or twist, which distorts the fine fibers.
Removing water and laying flat
- Blot gently with a clean, absorbent towel.
- Roll the item in the towel to wick away water without distorting the fibers.
- Lay flat on a dry towel, reshaping the garment to its original form.
- Rotate it periodically as it dries for even evaporation.
Don’t hang or drape cashmere to dry — the weight of the water pulls the fibers and alters the fit. Stick to a clean, flat surface, ideally a white towel to avoid color transfer. And let it dry naturally: avoid dryers and radiators, since slow air drying wards off shrinkage and keeps the fibers elastic.
FAQ
Can you put cashmere in the washing machine?
It’s generally best to avoid the washing machine, since it can stretch, shrink, or damage the fabric. Hand washing is the preferred method — but if you do machine wash, use a mesh bag, cold water, and a gentle, short cycle.
Hand wash or dry clean cashmere?
Hand washing is preferred, giving you the most control while maintaining softness and shape. Dry cleaning is a fine alternative if you’d rather have it done professionally.
Does cashmere shrink when washed?
It can, if washed improperly. Prevent shrinkage by using cool water, a gentle detergent, and minimal agitation, and by laying it flat to dry.
How do you wash a cashmere scarf?
Fill a basin with lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle detergent, gently agitate the scarf, then rinse thoroughly. Squeeze out excess water without wringing and lay the scarf flat to dry.
What detergent should I use for cashmere?
Use a gentle detergent designed specifically for cashmere — these clean effectively while preserving the fabric’s softness and quality.
