How To Clean a Cashmere Sweater at Home: An Expert Washing Guide

Cashmere sweaters are luxuriously soft and cozy, but cleaning them can feel intimidating. Many people worry about damaging their favorite sweaters when washing them at home. This expert guide will show you exactly how to clean a cashmere sweater at home safely and effectively.

Did you know cashmere comes from a special type of goat that produces the fine, soft hairs used to make cashmere clothing? With these tips, you’ll learn how to wash your cashmere sweater properly—keeping it in beautiful condition for years to come.

Key Takeaways

• Cashmere sweaters can be safely washed at home using gentle hand washing or machine washing on a delicate cycle with cold water.
• Spot-treat stains before washing by gently dabbing with a mild stain remover and rinsing with cool water.
• Air-dry cashmere sweaters flat on a clean towel, away from direct heat or sunlight, to maintain their shape.
• Use a wool-safe detergent and avoid fabric softeners to protect the delicate fibers.
• With regular home care, cashmere stays soft and long-lasting, often preserving the fabric better than dry cleaning.

Preparing to Wash Your Cashmere Sweater

Gathering Necessary Materials

Proper cashmere care starts with having the right supplies on hand. Here’s a list of essentials for safely cleaning your cashmere sweater at home:

• Measuring Tape: Check your sweater’s dimensions before and after washing to ensure it maintains its shape.
• Gentle Cleanser: Opt for a wool wash or mild shampoo suitable for delicate fabrics.
• Mesh Laundry Bag: Use this to protect your sweater if you decide to machine wash it.
• Clean Basin: Fill with cool water for hand washing.
• Drying Rack or Towel: Lay your sweater flat to air dry without stretching.
• Cashmere Comb: Gently removes pilling and fuzz, keeping your sweater looking fresh.
• Clothing Steamer: Removes wrinkles without exposing the fabric to direct heat.
• Lint Remover: Picks up loose fibers and dust from the sweater’s surface.
• Spot Cleaner: Pre-treats stains to improve washing results.

Spot-Treating Stains Before Washing

Spot-treating stains is a crucial first step to achieve the best cleaning results. Here’s how to handle stains on your delicate cashmere:

1. Act Quickly: Blot fresh stains with a clean, white cloth to absorb excess liquid.
2. Use a Gentle Stain Remover: Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or OxiClean.
3. Apply Gently: Use a soft cloth or cotton swab to dab the stain, without rubbing or scrubbing.
4. Let It Sit: Allow the stain remover to rest for 5-10 minutes.
5. Rinse with Cool Water: Gently remove the stain remover with a damp cloth.
6. Repeat if Needed: For stubborn stains, repeat the process or soak the sweater in cool water with a few drops of mild detergent for up to 30 minutes.
7. Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure all detergent is removed before proceeding to wash the entire sweater.

Hand Washing Your Cashmere Sweater

Hand washing is the gentlest way to clean a cashmere sweater, allowing you to control the water temperature and handling.

Step-by-Step Guide to Gentle Washing

1. Fill a basin with cool water and a small amount of wool-safe detergent.
2. Turn the sweater inside out to protect the outer surface.
3. Submerge the sweater, pressing down gently to soak it.
4. Let it sit for up to 30 minutes, allowing the detergent to cleanse the fibers.
5. Rinse with cool, clean water until all soap is gone.
6. Squeeze Carefully: Avoid wringing; gently press out excess water.
7. Lay the sweater on a clean towel, then roll it up to absorb more water.
8. Reshape Gently: Once unrolled, lay flat on a drying rack and reshape to its original form.
9. Air-Dry: Avoid heat sources and direct sunlight, letting it dry flat for the best results.

Machine Washing Your Cashmere Sweater

Machine washing can be safe for cashmere if done carefully. Here’s how to protect your sweater in the wash:

1. Turn Inside Out: Reduces wear on the outer fabric.
2. Use a Mesh Bag: Prevents snagging or stretching.
3. Delicate Cycle & Cold Water: Protects against damage or shrinkage.
4. Add Wool-Safe Detergent: Use a small amount.
5. Low Spin Cycle: Minimizes stress on the fibers.
6. Remove Promptly: Take the sweater out right after the cycle to avoid wrinkles.
7. Air-Dry Only: Lay flat to dry and never use a dryer for cashmere.

Drying and Finishing Your Cashmere Sweater

Proper drying is essential for maintaining cashmere’s shape and softness.

Air-Drying Techniques to Prevent Damage

• Lay Flat to Dry: Place the sweater on a clean towel or drying rack; never hang it.
• Avoid Sunlight: Direct sun can fade colors and damage fibers.
• Towel-Rolling Method: Roll the sweater in a towel to remove excess moisture.
• Reshape Damp: Gently reshape the sweater while it’s still damp to prevent stretching.
• Flip Occasionally: Turn the sweater once or twice to ensure even drying.
• Use a Fan: A light breeze can help speed up drying without harming the fabric.
• Store Properly: Once completely dry, fold and store in a cool, dry place to maintain its form.

Professional Cleaning: An Alternative Option

While dry cleaning is an option, many cashmere experts prefer hand washing to dry cleaning as it can better preserve the fabric over time. Dry cleaners use special solvents and pressing techniques, but home washing can often be more budget-friendly and just as effective.

Conclusion

Caring for cashmere at home is simple, affordable, and can keep your sweaters soft and beautiful for years. With hand washing or a delicate machine cycle, paired with proper drying and storage, your cashmere will retain its luxurious feel without frequent dry cleaning. By following these expert tips, you can enjoy your cozy cashmere pieces season after season.