How should a cashmere sweater be washed and dried?
Cashmere knitwear does not need to be washed after every use. Often, airing it out is enough to freshen the garment, and individual stains can be removed locally. When washing is necessary, Original Story recommends dry cleaning or a gentle hand wash for your cashmere knit using a detergent suitable for natural fibers. Always dry the knit on a flat surface.
When should a cashmere sweater be washed?
If the sweater just needs a refresh, hang it out to air for a while. Let the sweater rest between wears. This means you won’t have to wash the whole garment as often.
If the sweater gets a stain, try to remove it locally first using a stain soap suitable for wool. Treat the stain gently and always check the product's own care instructions before treatment. It is worth washing the entire sweater when airing and local stain removal are no longer sufficient.
How to hand wash a cashmere sweater
First, check the garment's care label. If it allows hand washing, proceed as follows:
- Fill a clean sink or basin with cool or lukewarm water. Add a small amount of detergent suitable for natural fibers according to the dosage instructions on the package.
- Submerge the sweater in the water and move it gently. Avoid rubbing or stretching to ensure the sweater retains its surface and shape.
- Rinse the sweater in water of the same temperature until no detergent remains in the fibers.
- Lift the sweater out of the water, supporting it with both hands. Gently squeeze out excess water. Do not twist or wring the sweater.
- Shape the sweater. Sometimes, for example, the sleeves may shrink during washing, so you can try gently stretching them back to their normal length.
If you feel unsure about hand washing, or if the product's care label requires it, choose professional dry cleaning.
How to dry a cashmere sweater after washing?
Lay the washed sweater on a clean towel and roll the towel up gently so it absorbs the excess moisture. Unroll it and then lay the sweater flat to dry in an airy spot, if necessary on a dry towel. Gently straighten the sleeves, hem, and neckline into the sweater's original shape.
Do not hang a wet cashmere sweater on a hanger: the weight of the water can stretch the knit. Let the sweater dry completely before folding it away in a cupboard.
Does the care for brushed and smooth cashmere differ?
Original Story's collection includes both brushed and smooth-surfaced cashmere sweaters. Both benefit from regular airing and, when necessary, gentle hand washing or dry cleaning according to the product's own care instructions.
The fuzzy surface of brushed cashmere can be maintained from time to time with a garment brush. Brush the dry sweater lightly with strokes in the same direction. Any pilling that may form on the surface of a smooth cashmere sweater can be carefully removed with a fabric shaver. Washing the sweater and maintaining its surface are therefore different things: brushes and fabric shavers are used on a dry sweater, not during washing.
How to keep your cashmere sweater in good condition between washes
Air the sweater regularly, treat any stains promptly, and store the dry sweater folded. Small maintenance tasks help keep the sweater looking neat and reduce the need for unnecessary washing.
Explore Original Story's material-specific care instructions, textile care products, and cashmere sweaters.
