Cashmere is renowned for its luxurious softness and delicate texture, making it a prized addition to any wardrobe. But when it comes to cleaning, you might wonder if this delicate fabric can safely go through your washing machine. The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Washing your cashmere improperly can lead to shrinking, stretching, or ruining its supple feel. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about washing cashmere in a machine, including risks, preparation, and alternatives, to help you keep your garments looking pristine for years to come.
Understanding Cashmere Fabric
Cashmere is a luxury fiber derived from the undercoat of Cashmere goats found primarily in regions like Mongolia, Iran, and the Himalayas. Its softness and warmth come from extremely fine fibers measuring between 14 to 19 microns in diameter, much finer than regular wool. This delicacy, but, demands gentle care. The unique structure of cashmere fibers allows them to trap air, providing insulation without bulk, but this also makes them prone to damage from harsh washing methods or extreme heat. Knowing how fragile cashmere is helps you appreciate why proper washing techniques are crucial to maintaining its quality and appearance.
The Risks Of Machine Washing Cashmere
Machine washing cashmere is risky because agitation, heat, and improper detergents can all damage the fibers. Cashmere is particularly vulnerable to felting, a process where fibers mat and shrink due to friction combined with moisture and heat. If your washing machine’s cycle is too harsh or the temperature too high, your favorite sweater might come out smaller or rougher than before. Also, cashmere can lose its shape if stretched during spin cycles or improper drying. Even with gentle machines, the risk of pilling increases when fibers rub aggressively. So while it’s tempting to toss your cashmere in with other clothes, the potential damage must be carefully weighed.
Preparing Cashmere For Washing
Before attempting any machine wash, preparation is key to protect your cashmere investment.
How To Safely Machine Wash Cashmere
First, always check the care label. Some cashmere garments explicitly advise hand washing or dry cleaning. If machine washing is permissible, turn your garment inside out to shield the outer fibers from friction. Place it in a mesh laundry bag to limit stretching and reduce contact with the machine’s agitator.
Choosing The Right Detergent
Use a mild, wool-friendly detergent designed specifically for delicate fibers. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners, which can strip cashmere of its natural oils, leaving it dry and stiff.
Selecting The Proper Washing Machine Cycle
Choose the gentlest cycle available, often labeled as ‘wool’, ‘delicate’, or ‘hand wash’. These cycles use minimal agitation and slower spin speeds to protect fragile fabrics.
Water Temperature And Spin Settings
Cold water is essential to prevent shrinking and felting. Set your machine to the lowest spin speed or skip spinning if possible, as aggressive spinning can distort the shape of your garment. These precautions help maintain cashmere’s softness and size through the wash.
Drying Cashmere After Machine Washing
Drying cashmere correctly after machine washing is just as important as the wash itself. Avoid tumble drying, which uses heat and can cause irreversible shrinking. Instead, gently press out excess water by rolling the garment in a clean towel, never wring or twist it.
Lay your cashmere flat on another dry towel, reshaping it carefully to its original dimensions. Allow it to air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can fade colors and stiffen fibers. This method prevents stretching and helps preserve the garment’s suppleness. Hanging cashmere when wet can cause it to lose shape due to gravity pulling on delicate fibers, so flat drying is the safest approach.
Alternatives To Machine Washing Cashmere
If you’re hesitant to risk machine washing, several alternatives can keep your cashmere fresh:
- Hand Washing: Soak your garment in cold water with a small amount of gentle detergent. Swish carefully, rinse thoroughly, and dry flat.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, gently dab with water and mild detergent rather than washing the entire piece.
- Airing Out: Sometimes, airing your cashmere after wearing can reduce odors and wrinkles without washing at all.
These gentler methods often extend the life of your cashmere and reduce wear caused by frequent washing cycles.
When To Seek Professional Cleaning Services
Certain cashmere items, especially those heavily embellished, very large, or of sentimental value, might be best left to professionals. Dry cleaners experienced with delicate fibers can ensure a deep clean without damage. Use professional services when:
- The garment’s label advises dry cleaning only.
- Stains are tough or widespread.
- You don’t have the time or confidence to wash it yourself.
Though professional cleaning can cost more, it’s a wise investment to preserve costly cashmere pieces safely over time.
Tips For Maintaining Cashmere Longevity
Proper washing is just one part of care. To keep your cashmere luxurious for years, consider these tips:
- Store your cashmere folded, not hung, to prevent stretching.
- Use cedar balls or lavender sachets to deter moths naturally.
- Avoid wearing the same cashmere garment multiple days in a row to allow fibers to recover.
- Gently remove pills with a cashmere comb or fabric shaver.
- Avoid direct contact with perfumes or deodorants that can stain or degrade fibers.
Good habits not only preserve softness but also keep your cashmere looking fresh, making each wear a pleasure.
Conclusion
You can wash cashmere in the washing machine, but only with extreme care and the right techniques. Cold water, delicate cycles, wool detergents, and proper drying are essential to avoid shrinking or damaging your garment. For high-value or sentimental pieces, professional cleaning remains the safest choice. When you treat your cashmere gently, you’ll enjoy its unparalleled softness and warmth for many seasons, proving that with a little know-how, luxury fibers can fit into your modern, convenient lifestyle.
