Can you wash cashmere by hand? Yes, you can! Hand washing is the preferred method for cleaning cashmere items. Cashmere is a delicate material that requires special care to maintain its softness and shape. Hand washing is the safest way to ensure your cashmere remains in good condition.
Cashmere is a luxurious and delicate fabric coveted by many for its softness, warmth, and durability. However, caring for cashmere can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to washing it.
You could ruin your favorite cashmere sweater or scarf with one wrong move. But fear not, because we’re here to guide you through the dos and don’ts of washing cashmere by hand and give you tips on how to take care of it after washing.
So, whether you’re a seasoned cashmere owner or a newbie, read on to learn how to keep your cashmere looking and feeling its best.
Key Takeaways
- Hand washing is the best way to clean cashmere items.
- Use cool water and mild detergent when washing cashmere by hand.
- Always lay cashmere items flat to dry after washing.
Table of Contents
What Is Cashmere? Pros And Cons Of Washing It
Cashmere is a luxurious material made from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats. It is known for its softness, warmth, and durability. Cashmere is often more expensive than other types of wool because it is more difficult to produce.
When washing cashmere, there are pros and cons to consider. The following table summarizes the main pros and cons of washing cashmere by hand:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hand washing is gentle | Can be time-consuming |
| Can save money on dry cleaning | It can be difficult to remove stains |
| You have more control over the process | Risk of shrinking or stretching |
| Can help extend the life of your cashmere | Requires more effort than machine washing |
Wash cashmere by hand can be a good option if you want to save money on dry cleaning and extend the life of your cashmere. However, it does require more effort and time than machine washing. Additionally, there is a risk of shrinking or stretching if the process needs to be done correctly.
Related: Can You Wash Cashmere In A Washing Machine?
How to Wash Cashmere By Hand?
Hand washing is the preferred method for cashmere garments to keep them looking their best. Here’s a guide to washing your cashmere by hand.
Materials Needed
Before you start washing your cashmere, you’ll need a few materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- A mild detergent specifically designed for wool or cashmere.
- A basin or sink
- A clean towel
- A flat drying rack
Pre-Washing Steps
To prepare your cashmere for washing, follow these pre-washing steps:
- Turn your cashmere garment inside out to protect the outer surface.
- Check the care label for any special instructions or precautions.
- Remove any excess dirt or debris by gently brushing the garment with a soft-bristled brush.
Soaking the Cashmere
Now it’s time to start washing your cashmere. Follow these steps to soak your garment:
- Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent to the water and mix well.
- Submerge your cashmere garment in the water and gently swirl it around.
- Let the garment soak for about 5 minutes.
Rinsing the Cashmere
After soaking, it’s time to rinse your cashmere. Follow these steps:
- Drain the soapy water from the basin or sink.
- Refill the basin or sink with clean, lukewarm water.
- Submerge your cashmere garment in the water and gently swirl it around.
- Repeat this process until all the soap is removed and the water runs clear.
Drying the Cashmere
Now that your cashmere is clean, it’s time to dry it. Follow these steps:
- Gently squeeze out any excess water from the garment.
- Lay the garment flat on a clean towel and roll it up to remove any remaining water.
- Unroll the towel and lay the garment flat on a drying rack.
- Reshape the garment as needed and let it air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Related: Can you wash towels with clothes?
How To Take Care Of The Cashmere After Washing?
After washing your cashmere, it is important to take proper care of it to ensure it stays soft and retains its shape. Here are some tips to help take care of your cashmere after washing:
Drying
It is important to dry your cashmere correctly to avoid damaging the fibers. Do not wring or twisting the garment, as this can cause it to lose shape.
Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel. Reshape the garment as needed and let it air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Ironing
If your cashmere garment is wrinkled after washing, you may need to iron it. However, use a low heat setting and place a clean, dry cloth between the iron and the garment to avoid scorching or damaging the fibers.
Storage
When storing your cashmere, fold it neatly and place it in a drawer or on a shelf away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid hanging your cashmere, as this can cause it to stretch out of shape. Also, consider storing it in a breathable garment bag to protect it from dust and moths.
Maintenance
To keep your cashmere looking its best, it is important to take proper care of it regularly. This includes gently brushing the garment with a soft-bristled brush to remove any pills or lint that may have accumulated.
Consider using a cashmere-specific detergent to wash your garment, as regular laundry detergent can be harsh and damaging to the fibers.
Dos And Don’ts of Hand Washing Cashmere
When it comes to washing cashmere, hand washing is the most recommended method. However, it is important to follow the dos and don’ts to ensure that your cashmere stays soft, fluffy, and in good condition.
Dos
- Use lukewarm water: Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of gentle detergent. The water should be at a temperature that is comfortable to the touch, not too hot or too cold.
- Gently agitate the water: Swirl the water around with your hand to create a gentle, soapy solution. Do not scrub or twist the fabric, which can damage the fibers.
- Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean water. Rinse the cashmere garment gently until all the soap suds are gone.
- Press, don’t wring: Press the excess water out of the fabric by gently squeezing it between your hands. Do not wring or twist the cashmere, as this can cause it to lose shape.
- Lay flat to dry: Lay the cashmere garment on a clean, dry towel and reshape it to its original size. Allow it to air dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Don’ts
- Don’t use hot water: Hot water can cause cashmere to shrink and lose its shape. Always use lukewarm water when hand washing.
- Don’t use harsh detergents: Harsh detergents can damage the delicate fibers of cashmere. Use a gentle, wool-safe detergent or a specialized cashmere cleaner.
- Don’t rub or scrub: Rubbing or scrubbing the cashmere can cause it to spill or become damaged. Always handle it gently when washing.
- Don’t hang to dry: Hanging cashmere to dry can cause it to stretch out of shape. Always lay it flat to dry.
Can You Wash Cashmere By Hand? A Recap
Washing cashmere by hand is a great way to keep your delicate items clean and in good condition. However, it’s important to do it correctly to avoid damaging the fabric.
Never wash cashmere with hot water, bleach, or fabric softener. Also, avoid using the washing machine or dryer, as these can damage the delicate fibers of the fabric.
Following these simple steps, you can safely and effectively wash your cashmere items by hand, keeping them looking their best for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you wash cashmere?
You don’t need to wash a cashmere sweater after every wear. Experts suggest washing cashmere every seven to ten years or when it gets visibly dirty or smelly. However, if you live in a humid climate or sweat frequently, you may need to wash your cashmere more frequently.
Can you hand wash the cashmere labeled ‘dry clean only’?
Yes, you can hand wash cashmere labeled ‘dry clean only.’ Hand washing is often recommended for cashmere as it is gentler than dry cleaning. However, it’s important to follow the proper washing instructions to avoid damaging the fabric.
What is the best detergent for washing cashmere?
The best detergent for washing cashmere is a gentle, no-rinse detergent like Soak Wash or The Laundress Wool & Cashmere Shampoo. Avoid using regular laundry detergents or fabric softeners, as they can damage the delicate fibers of cashmere.
Can you machine wash cashmere?
Yes, you can machine wash cashmere, but it’s important to use a gentle cycle and cold water. Always use a no-rinse detergent and avoid using fabric softeners. However, hand washing is still the preferred method for washing cashmere.
Is it better to hand wash or dry clean cashmere?
Hand washing is generally considered the best method for washing cashmere, as it is gentler than dry cleaning and helps extend the fabric’s life. However, if you need help with hand washing your cashmere properly or if it has a stubborn stain, it’s best to take it to a professional dry cleaner.
Does hand-washing cashmere cause it to shrink?
Hand washing cashmere can cause it to shrink if it needs to be done properly. Always use cold water and a gentle, no-rinse detergent to avoid shrinking. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, and gently reshape it while it’s damp.
