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We know that cashmere can have a large environmental impact—which is why it’s extra important that we look after our luxurious knits to ensure they stand the test of time. But how exactly should we be washing our cashmere? And what are the best ways to look after our jumpers long-term?
Below, Vogue speaks to the experts for their top tips on how to wash and care for our cashmere.
Can you machine wash cashmere?
While many of us are nervous about machine washing cashmere, lest it shrinks, Oyuna Tserendorj, founder of London-based cashmere brand Oyuna, says that we don’t need to be. “Cashmere can definitely be washed in a washing machine on a wool setting at 30 degrees,” she says, although she suggests that you don’t put your most expensive cashmere pieces in the wash right away. “If you’re new to machine washing cashmere, test with a less precious item first, as washing machine settings can vary.” Instead of using regular detergent, Tserendorj uses her own organic shampoo, noting that you don’t need to buy special cashmere products.
How to hand wash cashmere
For those who still aren’t sure about machine washing, hand washing is of course an option. “I tend to soak the piece in warm water with a bit of detergent and gently hand wash, then refill the sink with clear water to rinse,” says Johnstons of Elgin CEO Chris Gaffney, who likes to use Clothes Doctor’s cashmere and wool detergent. “I then pop the piece into the machine on a spin cycle to take out most of the moisture, but this can also be done by gently wringing the water out.”
How to dry cashmere
When it comes to drying your cashmere, make sure you shape it first. While Tserendorj leaves her cashmere pieces on a drying rack, Gaffney likes to lie his flat on a towel, adding: “You don’t want to leave it lying out of shape soaking wet for too long, and I would never tumble dry.”
Can you hand wash cashmere that says dry clean only?
Another dilemma is whether to hand wash or dry clean our cashmere. Gaffney says that washing can actually increase the softness of our cashmere garments over their lifetime. However, he notes that “woven fabric needs to be dry cleaned,” while dry cleaning is also recommended “for some special heavier pieces, or very fine yarns.” If in doubt, it’s best to check the care label.
How often should you wash cashmere?
This is down to personal preference: some experts say twice a season, while others suggest every three or four wears. The bottom line? You probably don’t need to wash your cashmere as much as you think you do. “Cashmere is a natural fibre, so it loves sunlight and fresh air,” Tserendorj says. “Place it outside, or on a warm radiator, to freshen up in the winter.”
How to tackle pilling
While most cashmere will pill to some degree, it’s less likely to be an issue with better-quality garments, “as longer cashmere fibres are used in better garments, and the quality of yarn spinning and knitting tension help too,” Gaffney explains. “Generally pilling will reduce over time as the shorter fibres come out.” To tackle any bobbly bits, you can use lint rollers or even shavers, although Gaffney recommends a specialist cashmere comb.
How to store cashmere
To ensure your cashmere lasts, it’s of course crucial to store your pieces properly to keep the moths at bay. Before putting them away, Tserendorj recommends washing to remove any food remnants or strong perfume from your garments. “Then put away in a cloth bag, ideally with a cedar block,” the expert continues. “If you discover moths, put your garment in the freezer for 48 hours, which should kill the moths, and then wash as above and store away.”