How to Care for Cashmere: Washing, Drying and Storage

Cashmere is prized for its softness, warmth and lightness, but it benefits from gentle care. The most important rule is to follow the care label on your garment first, because construction and finishing can vary.

Can you wash cashmere at home?

Many cashmere knitwear pieces can be hand washed if the care label allows it. Use cool or lukewarm water and a small amount of detergent made for wool or cashmere. Avoid ordinary biological detergents and harsh stain treatments.

How to hand wash cashmere

1. Turn the garment inside out.
2. Fill a clean basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of suitable detergent.
3. Submerge the garment and move it gently through the water. Do not scrub.
4. Leave it to soak briefly, then rinse thoroughly in clean cool water.
5. Do not wring or twist. Press out excess water gently.
6. Lay the garment on a clean towel, roll the towel to absorb moisture, then reshape the cashmere while damp.
7. Dry flat away from radiators, direct heat and strong sunlight.

How should cashmere be stored?

Fold cashmere rather than hanging it for long periods, which can stretch the shoulders. Make sure garments are clean and completely dry before storage. Keep them in a cool, dry place and consider breathable storage and a suitable moth deterrent such as cedar.

What causes cashmere pilling?

Pilling is a normal result of friction on soft natural fibres, especially in areas that rub against bags, coats or other garments. A cashmere comb can be used carefully to remove pills once they form.

How often should cashmere be washed?

Cashmere does not need washing after every wear. Airing it between wears and spot-cleaning only when appropriate can reduce unnecessary washing and help preserve the fibres.

Explore our cashmere knitwear and cashmere scarves, or visit the full Coature Care guide for coat and natural-fibre care.