Cashmere is a fibre valued for its softness, warmth, and lasting quality. At Afar Boutique, we embrace cashmere not just for its luxurious feel but for its alignment with our slow fashion ethos, prioritising careful selection, durability, and sustainability.
Many people mistakenly believe that cashmere requires frequent dry cleaning; however, harsh chemicals used in this process can weaken delicate fibres. With gentle, mindful care, cashmere can be safely cleaned at home, preserving its beauty and extending its lifespan.
Here's how to thoughtfully wash your cashmere pieces, ensuring they remain cherished wardrobe staples.
What Is Cashmere?
Cashmere is a fine, natural fibre derived from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats, predominantly found in Mongolia, the Himalayan regions, and parts of Central Asia. These goats have evolved a wonderful, insulating fleece to withstand severe cold climates. During spring, this fibre is gently combed from the goats by skilled herders, who then hand-sort the fibres by quality and length.
The unique softness, warmth, and scarcity of cashmere fibres contribute to their exceptional value. A single goat typically yields less than 200 grams of usable cashmere per year, meaning each garment represents the careful labour of multiple animals and craftspeople. At Afar Boutique, our J & J Cashmere collection is crafted from sustainably sourced, pure cashmere fibres, made with painstaking care in limited quantities to respect the resource and the artisans behind it.
How Often Should You Wash Cashmere?
Unlike synthetic fabrics, cashmere thrives when washed sparingly. Frequent washing can weaken fibres, distort the shape, and prematurely age the garment. Typically, cashmere should be washed only a few times per season, depending on wear frequency and exposure to environmental elements.
Natural cashmere fibres have self-cleaning properties that help resist odours and stains. This means it's often sufficient to air garments between wears, extending their freshness without frequent washing. However, it's essential to wash cashmere before seasonal storage, ensuring dirt, oils, and subtle odours don't attract moths or cause damage over time.
Before You Start Washing Your Cashmere
Caring for cashmere begins before you place it into water. Preparation sets the foundation for maintaining shape and condition.
Begin by measuring your garment carefully, noting the width, length, and sleeve dimensions. Writing down these measurements ensures you'll have a clear reference when reshaping the garment after washing, preventing distortion or shrinkage.
Next, gather everything you need:
A gentle wool wash or mild, biodegradable detergent (baby shampoo is a suitable alternative).
Clean basin or sink for handwashing.
Soft towels for drying.
A mesh laundry bag if machine washing is necessary.
How to Hand Wash Cashmere
Hand washing is the safest and most effective way to care for your cashmere garments, providing the gentle touch they require.
Fill a clean basin with cool water, never hot, as heat can cause shrinkage. Add a small amount of gentle detergent, creating a mild, sudsy bath. Turn your cashmere inside out, and submerge it gently into the water. Softly move it through the water, allowing it to soak for 10-30 minutes without excessive agitation.
Once soaked, carefully drain the water and rinse the garment thoroughly with fresh, cool water. Ensure all detergent is removed to avoid residue build-up, which can stiffen fibres.
Gently press out excess water by rolling the cashmere within a clean towel. Avoid wringing or twisting the garment, as cashmere fibres are delicate and easily damaged when wet.
Can You Machine Wash Cashmere?
While hand washing is ideal, machine washing can be done with great caution. Use a protective mesh laundry bag and select a delicate or wool-specific cycle with cold water and minimal spin.
After washing, immediately remove your cashmere garment, gently reshape it according to the measurements you've recorded, and proceed with careful drying.
How to Dry Cashmere Properly
Cashmere should always be dried flat to prevent shape distortion. After gently pressing out excess water with a towel, place your garment on a dry, flat surface, reshaping it to match the original measurements. Allow it to air dry naturally away from direct heat or sunlight, which can weaken fibres and fade colours.
Avoid using a tumble dryer or hanging your cashmere garments to dry, as gravity and heat can stretch, shrink, or damage the fibres irreversibly.
Caring for Cashmere Between Washes
Proper care extends beyond washing as regular maintenance ensures longevity.
Removing Pills: Cashmere naturally pills from friction. Use a specialised cashmere comb or sweater stone to gently remove pills, maintaining your garment’s pristine appearance without damaging the fibres.
Managing Wrinkles and Refreshing: Instead of ironing, use a gentle steam to smooth wrinkles and refresh your cashmere between washes. Steaming not only relaxes the fibres but also provides natural sanitisation, reviving the garment without unnecessary washing.
Addressing Stains Thoughtfully: Treat stains immediately by gently dabbing, not rubbing, with cold water and mild soap. For persistent stains, carefully apply a small amount of gentle stain remover, being careful not to disrupt the weave or texture of the fabric.
How to Store Cashmere Safely
Proper storage preserves the integrity of cashmere garments, especially during off-season months. Always fold cashmere rather than hanging, as hangers can distort its shape and leave permanent marks on the shoulders.
Store folded garments in breathable cotton or linen bags to protect against moths and moisture, avoiding plastic bags or bins that can trap humidity. Ensure garments are fully clean and dry before storage, as residual dirt or oils can attract pests.
For additional protection, consider adding cedar blocks or lavender sachets into storage areas, naturally repelling insects and maintaining a fresh scent without harsh chemicals.
When to Seek Professional Help
Despite careful home care, some situations call for professional cleaning. Severe staining, embellishments, or delicate trims may require specialist attention.
Avoid frequent dry cleaning, as chemical treatments can be harsh, stripping natural oils and weakening fibres over time. Reserve dry cleaning for emergencies or garments with detailed trims or heavy embellishments that cannot safely withstand water washing.
Why a Slow Fashion Approach Matters
At Afar Boutique, cashmere represents more than luxury, it's part of our commitment to slow fashion and mindful living. Washing and caring for your cashmere garments thoughtfully ensures each piece remains an enduring part of your wardrobe, reducing waste and celebrating sustainable living practices.
By choosing intentional care over convenience, you deepen your relationship with the clothing you cherish. In the long run, investing time and thought into your garments' care reflects respect not just for the items themselves, but for the planet and communities involved in their creation.
Final Thoughts, How to Wash Cashmere Mindfully
Understanding how to wash cashmere is an essential skill for any slow-fashion wardrobe. With gentle handling, careful drying, thoughtful storage, and a mindful approach, your cashmere garments can last a lifetime, becoming softer and more beautiful as years pass.
Your future self (and your cashmere) will thank you for taking the time to do it right. After all, something this beautiful deserves to be treated with care, and now you know exactly how to do it.