How To Care For Your Cashmere

Delicate, luxurious and irresistibly soft – those are just a few reasons why we adore wearing cashmere so much. We love this natural fiber in a number of different guises, whether it’s the comfiest sweaters, warm cardigans or cozy accessories. But to ensure yours lasts the test of time, you have to show it some much-needed TLC. We called upon cashmere connoisseurs at N. Peal, Autumn Cashmere, Duffy, Chinti & Parker and Charli to reveal their expert tips on how to care for your favorite luxury knits at home. Keep scrolling to uncover the 3 steps to caring for your cashmere…

How to wash cashmere

Preparation before washing: Turn the garment inside out to prevent (additional) pilling and general abrasion.

The best washing method: “Cashmere is a protein fiber, much like our own hair and responds well to the same gentle washing approach.” Founder at Chinti & Parker Anna Singh suggests you “soak your cashmere for at least 15 minutes in lukewarm water, and then just swish and lightly squish the sweater around in the soapy water. Hand washing will always produce the best results for your cashmere garments.”

An alternative washing method: Hand washing is preferable, but there are other ways. The cashmere specialists at N.Peal always “recommend hand washing your garments, though if you must, a washing machine can be used – BUT– you must wash on a delicate cycle at maximum 30 degrees. Warm temperatures will cause any knitwear to shrink.”

Best detergents & washing temperatures: The specialists from Autumn Cashmere advise that the “best temperature is cold. We would recommend Woolite or The Laundress Wool & Cashmere Shampoo. Tablets might be too harsh.”