How to wash and care for cashmere
The Complete Guide to Cashmere Care and Washing: How to Keep Your Garments Soft and Intact
Cashmere is a precious fabric, loved for its incredible softness, warmth and lightness. To preserve these unique characteristics over time, it is important to follow some simple precautions for washing, drying and storing your garments. With the right care, cashmere garments can maintain their quality and beauty for many years, thus becoming a valuable investment in your wardrobe.
Lavaggio: Come Trattare i Capi in Cashmere con Delicatezza
Hand Wash (Recommended)
Hand washing is the best method to preserve the softness and structure of cashmere fibers.
- Use Cold or Warm Water : Immerse the garment in cold or slightly warm water. Avoid hot water, which can damage the fibers and cause shrinkage.
- Specific Detergent : Use a detergent formulated for cashmere or delicate garments, possibly natural and without aggressive substances. A small amount of detergent is sufficient for an optimal result.
- Gentle Movements : Wash the garment by gently moving it in the water for a few minutes, without rubbing, scrubbing or twisting. This will reduce friction and preserve the delicate cashmere fibers.
- Rinse : Rinse the garment thoroughly in clean water until it is free of soap. Be sure to completely remove any detergent residue, which can stiffen the fabric.
Machine Wash (Optional and with Caution)
If you cannot hand wash the garment, you can use the washing machine, but with due precautions.
- Delicate Cycle at Low Temperature : Set a program for wool or delicate items, strictly with cold water. Mechanical washing could stress the fibers, so keep the cycle duration short.
- Using a Protective Net : Place your garment in a mesh washing machine bag to protect it from accidental rubbing or tearing. The net reduces the direct impact of the drum movement on the delicate cashmere fiber.
- Avoid Spin : Set the spin speed to minimum or disable it completely to avoid shrinkage and friction.
Asciugatura: Come Preservare la Morbidezza del Cashmere
Proper drying is essential to maintaining the shape and texture of cashmere.
- Blot with a Towel : After washing, do not wring out the garment. Place it on a clean towel, gently roll the towel with the garment inside and press lightly to absorb excess water.
- Flat Drying : Lay the garment flat on a horizontal surface, gently arranging the shape to avoid unwanted creases. Avoid direct heat sources such as radiators and sunlight, which may discolor or alter the fabric.
Manutenzione: Come Rimuovere Pelucchi e Prevenire l’Usura
With use, cashmere may generate small lint or pills, which are natural and can be easily removed.
- Use a Cashmere Comb or Brush : Gently run a cashmere comb or brush over the surface of the garment to remove lint. Do this periodically to keep the garment fresh and smooth.
- Avoid Excessive Chafing : When wearing your garment, try to minimize chafing with bags, jackets or belts, especially in areas subject to greater friction, such as the elbows or torso area.
Conservazione: Come Proteggere i Capi in Cashmere durante i Cambi Stagionali
Good storage is essential to keep cashmere in tip-top condition during periods of inactivity.
- Store Flat : Folding cashmere flat is ideal, as hanging it can distort its structure, stretching the fibers over time.
- Breathable Cotton Bags : For optimal protection, store your garments in breathable cotton bags, which prevent moisture and odors from being trapped. Avoid plastic bags, which, by retaining moisture, could damage the fibers.
- Preventing Moths and Insects : Natural fabrics like cashmere are attractive to moths. Use a natural moth repellent, like lavender or cedar sachets, to place in your drawer or closet to repel insects without harming the environment.