Cashmere explained: What it is and how to care for this fabric!
Delicate, warm and silky, wearing cashmere feels like pure luxury, but cashmere clothing also requires special care and attention to keep it looking great. Find out all about this unique type of wool, washing cashmere and how to care for cashmere with our simple tips.
What is cashmere?
Cashmere is a type of wool obtained from the plush undercoat of the Kashmir goat, which is finer and softer than sheep’s wool. This fibre is very fine, soft and light in texture, but it’s also strong at the same time. Cashmere yarn makes for luxurious fabrics, but since each goat is only capable of producing 4-6 ounces of underdown each year, cashmere is also very expensive. Since cashmere fabric is so rare and valuable, it tends to be blended with other fibres, where the percentage must be given on the label.
What clothes are made from cashmere fibres?
Cashmere is often knitted or woven, and is usually made into jumpers, cardigans or scarves. The warm and delicate feel of cashmere puts it more on the luxury end of the winter clothing spectrum, making it a fabric that requires extra care. Some cashmere garments can be hand washed and those containing a high percentage of other fibre blends into clothing can even be machine washed.
How to wash cashmere fabrics?
- Check the fabric care label of your garment before washing. Depending on the fibre blend or whether you are dealing with pure cashmere, its washing needs will vary.
- If your garment is hand washable, then wash in cold water at a temperature of no more than 30 degrees with a detergent that’s specifically designed to wash wool and silk. Gently squeeze the water through the garment until it runs clear, but do not wring or twist. Squeeze any excess water out of the garment.
- Machine washable garments should be washed on cold water cycle at a temperature no higher than 30 degrees. Use Ariel Original Washing Liquid and Lenor Fabric conditioner to care for your cashmere garments.
How to dry cashmere fabrics?
- Dry cashmere garments naturally – do not tumble dry.
- Lay the item out on a towel, gently roll up and press lightly. You can unroll and reshape by hand before leaving it to dry laid flat.
- Keep your cashmere away from heat sources like radiators or sunlight.
- Air dry naturally.
How to iron and store cashmere fabrics?
While it’s best to avoid ironing cashmere, if you really need to remove the creases, make sure you clean your iron thoroughly, as cashmere can be sensitive to ironed on stains. Set the iron to the low or wool setting and turn the garment inside out and use a pressing cloth between the garment and the iron. Store cashmere in a clean and dry place.
Caring tips for your cashmere fabrics
- You can protect your garments in the machine by using a mesh bag and use a cool or woollen cycle to protect your clothes.
- Avoid wearing cashmere next to rough clothing or accessories, as this can cause snagging or pilling.
- Don’t wear cashmere garments too often, allow it a two or three days’ rest between wearing.
Since each fabric is different, each garment needs some special care. Even if you’re looking to remove tough stains or you’re washing synthetic fabrics, or natural ones like wools and cotton, Ariel can give you the outstanding stain removal results you need in the 1st wash.