How to Wash and Care for Your Cashmere Sweater — A Complete Guide to Lasting Luxury
Cashmere should feel like a warm hug every time you put it on. Treat it right, and it’ll love you back for years. Below, you’ll find a simple, no-stress routine for washing, drying, storing, and de-pilling your cashmere or pashmina—exactly how we care for our own pieces at Anitya.
Why cashmere needs special care
Cashmere fibers are ultra-fine and airy. That’s why it’s warm without the weight—and why rough handling, heat, or harsh detergents can make it lose softness or shape. The good news: with a few gentle habits, your sweater can stay plush for seasons (and look brand-new every winter).
Quick rules (the 60-second version)
- Use cool water and a wool/cashmere-safe detergent.
- Never wring or twist. Press water out gently.
- Dry flat on a towel, reshape while damp.
- Fold to store (don’t hang). Keep away from heat and sunlight.
- Pilling is normal. Comb or shave lightly on dry fabric.
Hand-wash method (our favorite)
Best for maintaining softness and shape. Takes 10–15 minutes—worth it.
- Prep. Turn the sweater inside out. Spot-treat underarms or cuffs if needed.
- Fill the basin. Cool water + a small amount of wool/cashmere detergent.
- Soak & swish. Submerge and gently move it around for 3–5 minutes. No scrubbing.
- Rinse. Drain, refill with cool water, and repeat until the water is clear.
- Press water out. Lift with two hands. Lay on a clean towel, roll it up, and press. Unroll and reshape flat.
Machine-wash method (backup plan)
If the label allows machine wash and you’re short on time, this is the safer way:
- Place the sweater in a mesh laundry bag.
- Use Wool/Delicate cycle, cold water, and a wool-safe detergent.
- No spin or very low spin. Absolutely no dryer.
- Remove promptly. Lay flat and reshape while damp.
Drying & reshaping
Drying is where most damage happens—heat and stretching are the enemies. Keep it simple:
- Lay flat on a dry towel; press another towel on top to absorb moisture.
- Reshape to its original measurements while damp.
- Dry away from direct heat and sunlight. Flip once halfway if needed.
How to remove pilling (the kind, safe way)
Little fuzzy balls show up where there’s friction (sleeves, sides). It’s normal, especially early on. To fix:
- Use a cashmere comb or a gentle fabric shaver on dry fabric.
- Work in one direction with a light touch.
- Finish by smoothing the knit with your hand.
How to store cashmere (seasonal & everyday)
- Fold, don’t hang to prevent stretching.
- Keep in a breathable bag or cotton box; avoid plastic long-term.
- Add cedar or lavender to discourage moths (refresh occasionally).
- Before long storage, wash and fully dry to remove body oils/food traces.
Do
- Choose cool water and gentle detergent.
- Reshape while damp and dry flat.
- Comb pills lightly in one direction.
- Fold and store in breathable bags.
Don’t
- Don’t wring, stretch, or scrub.
- Don’t use hot water or high heat.
- Don’t tumble dry.
- Don’t hang for storage.
Every Anitya cashmere piece is ethically crafted with our artisan partners in Nepal. Hand-finished edges, careful knitting, and slow production—so your sweater feels special every time.
Cashmere Care FAQ
How often should I wash cashmere?
After every 3–5 wears, or sooner if needed. Let pieces rest between wears so the fibers relax.
Can I dry-clean cashmere?
Occasionally, yes—especially for tailored or embellished pieces. For everyday knits, hand-washing is gentler and keeps it soft.
My sweater stretched. What can I do?
Wash gently, then reshape while damp to the desired measurements and dry flat. Steam lightly after it’s fully dry to refine the shape.
Which detergent should I use?
Any wool/cashmere-safe liquid detergent. Avoid standard detergents, bleach, and fabric softener.
