How To Wash Cashmere

Courtesy of The Laundress

Buying cashmere's a big deal. For one, it's expensive. And then you have to dry clean it. The luxurious fabric is supposed to last forever after all. But what if we told you there was a home remedy that works just as well? Yahoo Style spoke with Gwen Whiting and Lindsey J. Boyd, the co-founders of The Laundress to find out the best way to care for cashmere as we head into sweater season.

Yahoo Style: When it comes to washing your cashmere at home, how should one approach the situation?
Gwen Whiting: All cashmere should be cared for (very easily) at home and not dry cleaned. There is a misconception that cashmere items cannot be “washed.” The truth is, it can and should be washed. Washing yields better results and the yarns are fluffier and retain the cashmere properties that we love. When dry cleaned, the yarns get crushed, stiff, and dry. Further, washing removes stains and odors that dry cleaning does not.

YS: At-home cashmere cleansers can be pricey. Are there less expensive alternatives?
Lindsey Boyd: Detergents like Woolite, despite its name, is not suitable for proper wool care. The Laundress Wool & Cashmere Shampoo is a plant-derived soap formulated to clean and preserve the natural lanolin in wool, cashmere, merino, mohair, and blended yarns.

YS: How often should you wash your wool or cashmere?
GW: Cashmere naturally repels environmental elements like water, dirt, and fire, and it's best not to over-wash (or god forbid dry clean) wool. We recommend only washing a few times each season (depending of course on how often you wear your favorite sweater). Generally, collars, and cuffs and armpits will require treating; they're a good indication of how often you should wash.

YS: Should you wash your cashmere before storing it?
LB: Yes! Always wash items (wool or otherwise) before storing.  Stains, deodorant, and even perfume become a “food source” for bugs. We also recommend storing everything in breathable bags (in cotton or canvas, no plastic) with a zip closure. And always store knits folded to prevent stretching or distorting.

YS: Finally, is it better to hand or machine wash your cashmere?
GW: Hand washing is the safest and gentlest method.  Click here to read our step by step recipe.