Cashmere is a luxurious fabric that adds elegance and warmth to any fall or winter wardrobe. However, its delicate nature and higher price point can make washing it at home feel intimidating. Fear not! Rechelle Balanzat, our founder and CEO, shares her expert tips in InStyle (click here to read the full feature) on how to care for your cashmere pieces properly.

How Often to Wash Cashmere

Rechelle recommends washing your cashmere after every three to four wears to maintain its longevity. Over-washing can lead to damage, pilling, stretching, or shrinking. Concerned about lingering odors? Cashmere is naturally odor-resistant, thanks to its fibers coming from the soft undercoat of goats, which also possess moisture-wicking properties. This allows for multiple wears before a wash is necessary.

The Safest Way to Wash Cashmere

While there are various methods to wash cashmere, handwashing is the safest option. Rechelle explains, “Machine washing, even on a delicate cycle, can cause damage unless placed in a mesh bag and set to cold water with low spin.” Handwashing offers better control over the delicate fibers.

For water temperature, always use cold or lukewarm water. Hot water can shrink and misshape cashmere, so it’s crucial to maintain its natural structure.

How to Hand Wash Cashmere

Prepare the Basin: Fill a basin or sink with cool water, adding a gentle detergent as it fills. If washing larger items, a bathtub can also work.
Swish and Soak: Submerge the cashmere, gently swishing it around.
Rinse: Drain the basin, refill with cool water, and rinse the garment. Repeat until no soap remains.
Remove Excess Water: Squeeze out excess water gently, avoiding lifting the wet cashmere to prevent stretching. Never wring it out! Roll the cashmere in a clean, white towel, pressing down to absorb remaining water.

How to Machine Wash Cashmere

If you prefer machine washing, follow these steps to protect your cashmere:

Turn Inside Out: Flip your cashmere inside out and place it in a mesh laundry bag to minimize friction.
Select the Right Cycle: Use the delicate or wool cycle with a low spin setting. Always opt for a cold water cycleto prevent shrinking and use a gentle detergent.

How to Dry and Store Cashmere

Drying your cashmere properly is just as vital as washing it. Rechelle advises laying cashmere flat to dry, reshaping it to its original dimensions. Avoid hanging it to prevent distortion from the weight of the wet fabric.

Drying Location: Place your cashmere in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. If using the towel method, flip the cashmere after a few hours to ensure even drying.
Storage Tips: Store cashmere in a cool, dry place, ideally in breathable fabric bags or drawers. Always fold cashmere instead of hanging it to prevent distortion. Consider adding moth repellants if storing for the season.

How to Spot Clean Cashmere

For minor spills between washes, spot cleaning is your best friend:

Blot the Stain: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot excess liquid, avoiding rubbing that could damage the fibers.
Create a Cleaning Solution: Mix mild detergent with lukewarm water or white vinegar for tougher stains. Dab the solution onto the stain, working from the edges to the center.
Rinse and Dry: Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth and then dry with a towel. Lay flat to air dry.

When to Dry Clean Cashmere

Sometimes, a trip to the dry cleaners is necessary. Rechelle advises that dry cleaning is a safe and effective option for heavily soiled cashmere or structured items like cashmere coats. If you frequently wear a particular piece and it needs deep cleaning, dry cleaning can help maintain its quality.

If you’re unsure about how to care for your cashmere, don’t hesitate to send your garments to us at Juliette. Text us at (315) 284-5689 or request a pickup at www.juliette.nyc

Juliette’s Tips for Caring for Your Cashmere.