How to Wash a Cashmere Sweater at Home

Cashmere can be washed at home safely — you don't need to dry clean it every time. The key is cool water, a gentle cashmere-specific detergent, and no agitation. Here's a complete guide.

What You Need

• The Laundress Wool & Cashmere Shampoo — specifically formulated for cashmere and wool, enzyme-free, cedar scent
• A clean basin or sink
• Clean dry towels
• A flat sweater drying rack

Step-by-Step: How to Wash Cashmere at Home

1. Check the care label. Most cashmere is labeled "hand wash" or "dry clean." Hand washing at home is safe for most cashmere — dry clean only for structured or embellished pieces.
2. Fill a basin with cool water. Maximum 30°C (86°F). Cold is safest. Never use warm or hot water.
3. Add cashmere detergent. A small capful of Wool & Cashmere Shampoo. Swirl gently to dissolve.
4. Submerge the cashmere. Lower it gently into the water. Do not drop or agitate.
5. Gently squeeze — never rub. Squeeze the soapy water through the fabric with your hands. Pay attention to underarms and collar. No rubbing, scrubbing, or wringing.
6. Soak for 10–15 minutes.
7. Rinse thoroughly. Drain and refill with clean cool water at the same temperature. Squeeze gently to rinse. Repeat until water runs clear.
8. Press out excess water. Gently press — never wring. Place on a clean dry towel, roll up, and press firmly.
9. Lay flat to dry. Place on a sweater drying rack and reshape to original dimensions while damp. Dry away from direct heat and sunlight.

What NOT to Do

• Never use hot water — causes shrinkage and felting
• Never rub or wring — damages delicate cashmere fibers
• Never put in the dryer — heat causes irreversible shrinkage
• Never hang wet cashmere — stretches out of shape
• Never use regular detergent — enzymes break down cashmere fibers
• Never machine wash unless the label specifically says machine washable

How to Treat Stains on Cashmere

• Act immediately — blot (don't rub) fresh stains.
• Apply a small amount of cashmere shampoo directly to the stain.
• Gently work in with fingertips. Let sit 5 minutes.
• Proceed with full hand wash as above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really wash cashmere at home?

Yes — most cashmere can be safely hand washed at home with cool water and cashmere-specific detergent. Dry cleaning is only necessary for structured pieces or heavily embellished cashmere.

How often should I wash cashmere?

Every 3–5 wears, or when visibly soiled. Cashmere is naturally odor-resistant — air out between wears to extend time between washes. Over-washing shortens the life of cashmere.

What detergent is safe for cashmere?

The Laundress Wool & Cashmere Shampoo is specifically formulated for cashmere — enzyme-free, pH-balanced, and gentle on delicate fibers. Never use regular laundry detergent.

How long does cashmere take to dry?

12–24 hours flat on a rack depending on thickness and air circulation. Ensure the garment is completely dry before storing — damp cashmere develops mildew and odor.

My cashmere shrank — can I fix it?

Sometimes — soak in lukewarm water with a tablespoon of hair conditioner for 20–30 minutes, then gently stretch back to shape and lay flat to dry. Works best on slightly shrunken cashmere caught early.