How to Take Care of Cashmere
Cashmere is an exceptionally durable material that will last a long time with proper care. A gentle washing routine will help to extend the life of your cashmere garments and help maintain their high quality.
GOBI recommends that you dry clean all your cashmere garments to ensure longevity.
CASHMERE-CARE INSTRUCTIONS
GOBI produces three types of cashmere materials:
- Woven – blankets, scarves, shawls, throws, etc. Dry clean only.
- Sewn – coats, trench coats, blazers, and suits. Dry clean only.
- Knitted – sweaters, pants, scarves, hats, gloves, socks, etc. Dry cleaning is recommended but you can hand or machine-wash knitted cashmere with care.
On a special note, you should only dry clean silk and cashmere-blend garments, any cashmere mixed materials, prints, and any multicolored cashmere.
HOW OFTEN TO WASH CASHMERE
One of the beautiful things about cashmere is that you do not need to wash it after every wear unless for a specific purpose.
We recommend washing your cashmere garment after seven to ten wears and before seasonal storage.
HOW TO HAND WASH CASHMERE
- Buy a gentle detergent or shampoo made for delicate fabrics.
- Add the cashmere shampoo to lukewarm water.
- It’s best to hand-wash cashmere one at a time.
- Soak your cashmere for 15 minutes in the lukewarm water.
- After soaking, rinse the detergent from your cashmere in clean, lukewarm water.
- Lightly squeeze out the water. Do not wring the garment.
- Lay your garment flat to dry. Another drying technique is to slowly roll your cashmere garment in a towel to avoid wrinkles. Gently press to remove water. Straighten it back to its original shape and lay it flat to dry. Do not tumble dry or hang dry.
- Ironing is optional. Steam iron at a low or wool temperature setting. Leave a 0.5 - 1 cm (0.2 - 0.4 in) gap between the iron and cashmere garment when ironing and use the steam to dewrinkle.
HOW TO WASH CASHMERE IN A WASHING MACHINE
CYCLE SETTINGS: Set your washing machine to the most delicate cycle to help prevent any stretching or excessive wear.
TEMPERATURE: Set your washing machine to the cold water setting for both the wash and rinse cycles. Approximately 20° C (70° F) is recommended.
DETERGENT/SHAMPOO: Use a detergent or shampoo made specifically for delicate fabrics.
It’s a good idea to wash your cashmere clothing in a mesh bag. The best way to avoid color transfer between garments is to wash each one separately.
We advise that you do not tumble or hang dry after washing. Flat dry only as this will prevent any misshaping of the fabric.
HOW TO DRY CASHMERE
GOBI has been in the cashmere business for over 40 years, so we know a thing or two about your cashmere garments.
Keep your cashmere away from heat sources like radiators or sunlight.
We recommend that you keep your cashmere on a flat surface for at least 24 hours. Depending on the thickness and texture of your cashmere, it can take up to 48 hours to dry.
Air dry naturally.
REMOVE STAINS FROM CASHMERE
Finding a stain on your cashmere can be disappointing, but it doesn’t have to mean the end of your cashmere garment.
The best way to take care of stains on cashmere is to treat them immediately. Hand wash as advised above as soon as possible with a delicate fabric-stain remover. A pH-neutral formula is recommended. Let it soak for 30 minutes and dry flat for 24 to 48 hours.
Do not rub your cashmere because this can potentially cause a hole in the premium material.
Consult a professional cleaner for stubborn stains.
BEST WAY TO REMOVE PILLING FROM CASHMERE
Pilling is a natural part of owning cashmere. No matter the quality or how well you care for your cashmere, pilling is inevitable.
Pilling is small balls of fiber that naturally occur due to the fabric rubbing against another surface.
The best way to remove pilling from cashmere is to use a cashmere comb to gently brush the surface of your cashmere garment to a like-new appearance.
Cashmere combs are available on our website.
SEASONAL STORAGE OF YOUR CASHMERE
For seasonal storage, after your cashmere has been freshly cleaned and thoroughly dried, fold and store your cashmere in a breathable cotton canvas bag with a zipper closure.
Use and replace every few months cedarwood products or a freshly dried lavender sachet in your cashmere storage area to prevent pests.
Store in a cool, dry, pest-free area.
CASHMERE IS MORE THAN A FABRIC. IT’S A WAY OF LIFE
Now you can confidently take care of your cashmere investment and fully enjoy the benefits of this ultra-premium material for many, many seasons to come.
Take care of your cashmere, and it will take care of you.