Caring for Your Cashmere Like a Pro
If you’re hesitant to wash natural fibres like cashmere and wool at home, don’t worry - you’re not alone!
Washing your wool and cashmere jerseys can be daunting, but never fear....they can easily be washed at home. In fact, washing your knits yourself can actually be better for them than dry cleaning, which has the potential to strip fibres of the natural oils responsible for keeping them soft and supple. So.... relax and read on - all the info you need is here:
The basic rules are:
The basic rules are:
- Use cool water and a gentle cashmere/wool detergent.
- Let it soak for no longer than 30 minutes.
- Rinse with cool water and press out the water with your hands.
- Shape your garment when wet.
- Air dry and dry it flat - away from direct sunlight and heat.
That's it in a nutshell - super easy!
We generally recommend laundering cashmere & wool garments approximately every 3-4 wears. And of course make sure you wash them before storing them away for the summer season.
If you decide to use a machine wash (and, yes, this is ok too!) these are the rules to follow:
We generally recommend laundering cashmere & wool garments approximately every 3-4 wears. And of course make sure you wash them before storing them away for the summer season.
If you decide to use a machine wash (and, yes, this is ok too!) these are the rules to follow:
Use cool water on the delicate cycle. Its best to place your garment inside-out and in a mesh bag to prevent snagging in the machine. Keep in mind cashmere and wool fibers tend to tighten up naturally when wet, so it’s important to gently reshape them after washing before laying them flat to dry. Avoid wringing motions. Instead, carefully press out water between your palms.
The one BIG no-no is heat....never, ever put cashmere or wool knits in the dryer, and avoid drying near a heat source like a radiator, all of which causes shrinkage, damage, and dehydration.
If time is of the essence then follow this quick-drying tip: lay your washed and wet item flat on a towel after removing as much excess water as possible. With the item in its original shape, roll it up in the towel (like a sleeping bag) to remove any further moisture.
The one BIG no-no is heat....never, ever put cashmere or wool knits in the dryer, and avoid drying near a heat source like a radiator, all of which causes shrinkage, damage, and dehydration.
If time is of the essence then follow this quick-drying tip: lay your washed and wet item flat on a towel after removing as much excess water as possible. With the item in its original shape, roll it up in the towel (like a sleeping bag) to remove any further moisture.
Ironing can crush or flatten the natural pile of the yarns, so put that iron down (bet you're pleased to hear this tip!) But if you need to, you can steam your garment to help remove any wrinkles. Then gently depill and lift fuzz with a knitwear comb. And don't forget to always store your knits folded instead of hanging, to prevent stretching or distorting.
Now get out there are wrap up warm this Winter, safe in the knowledge that your beautiful cashmere and wool garments are going to look brand new for many years to come!
If you need a refresh in your wardrobe, shop our latest KNITWEAR - and make sure you check out two of our cozy cashmere pieces the Helios Light Jumper & the Elation Sweater, both by BLAK.
By Sarah Hetherington
Now get out there are wrap up warm this Winter, safe in the knowledge that your beautiful cashmere and wool garments are going to look brand new for many years to come!
If you need a refresh in your wardrobe, shop our latest KNITWEAR - and make sure you check out two of our cozy cashmere pieces the Helios Light Jumper & the Elation Sweater, both by BLAK.
By Sarah Hetherington
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