How to care for a cashmere sweater without damaging it

Softness, warmth, elegance… The cashmere sweater is an essential piece in any high-end wardrobe. But this noble, delicate material needs special attention to keep its beauty over time. The good news: caring for a cashmere sweater at home, without damaging it, is entirely possible as long as you follow the right steps.

In this article, Studio Cashmere8 shares all its expert advice on washing, drying, storing and caring for your Mongolian cashmere pieces for the long term. An essential guide to making the magic last… season after season.

1. Why does cashmere need special care?

Cashmere comes from the undercoat of the Hircus goat, which lives on the high plateaux of Central Asia. This precious, very fine down is collected by hand in spring. It stands out for its lightness, its exceptional insulating power and its ultra-soft texture.

But it is precisely this fineness (under 19 microns) that makes it sensitive to heat, friction and harsh products. Inappropriate washing can cause pilling, felting or distortion of the knit. Hence the importance of gentle, patient and precise care.

2. Should you wash a cashmere sweater by hand or in the machine?

The best way to wash a cashmere sweater is still by hand. However, if your machine has a dedicated wool or delicate cycle, with a maximum temperature of 20°C and a very gentle spin (400 rpm), it can be suitable for the sturdiest pieces.

At Studio Cashmere8, we recommend:

• By hand: in a basin of lukewarm water (20-25°C), with a special wool or baby shampoo. Don't rub or wring; gently press the garment to work the soapy water through.
• In the machine: in a laundry bag, with a special wool detergent and no fabric softener. Select a "wool" or "cold wash" cycle with a very low spin.

Absolutely avoid: hot water, regular detergents, the tumble dryer and traditional dry cleaning with perchloroethylene.

3. How to dry a cashmere sweater properly

Drying is a key step in preserving the shape and softness of cashmere. Here is what to do:

• Squeeze out the water gently by hand, pressing softly without wringing.
• Then lay the sweater flat on a clean, dry towel, folding it slightly to absorb the remaining water.
• Lay it flat on a level surface, away from direct light, and reshape it to its original cut.

Never hang a wet cashmere garment: the weight of the water could permanently stretch it.

4. How often should you wash a cashmere sweater?

Unlike cotton or synthetics, cashmere doesn't need washing after every wear. Thanks to its breathable, antibacterial properties, it stays clean for longer.

We recommend washing it roughly every 5 to 7 wears, or as soon as an odour or stain appears. Washing too often could damage the fibres in the long run.

5. How to prevent pilling on cashmere

Pilling is natural in the first few wears, especially in areas of friction (sleeves, underarms, where a handbag rests). To prevent it:

• Wash your sweater regularly after the first few wears to remove excess fibres.
• Use a cashmere comb or a soft brush, only on a dry garment, with gentle strokes.
• Avoid friction with bags, jewellery or rough belts.

A well-cared-for piece will naturally pill less over time.

6. How to store cashmere out of season

When the warm season arrives, it is essential to store your pieces properly to avoid moths or distortion.

Here are our recommendations:

• Wash the garment before storing it.
• Fold it carefully and avoid hangers, which can stretch the knit.
• Place it in a cotton garment bag or an airtight box, with a few sachets of natural cedar or lavender to keep insects away.
• Never store your cashmere in a damp place.

7. Express care: good everyday habits

Beyond washing, a few simple habits can extend the life of your cashmere sweaters:

• Air your sweater after each wear instead of washing it every time.
• Let it rest for 24 hours between wears so the fibres can "recover".
• Avoid spraying perfume directly onto the knit, and never iron cashmere damp or without protection.

8. Cashmere by Studio Cashmere8

Our pieces are made from premium Mongolian cashmere, precisely knitted and washed in the workshop to guarantee softness and durability. Each one deserves special attention, so it can stay with you year after year.

By following the recommended care steps, you extend not only the life of your garment but also its lustre and comfort. Cashmere is not a fragile material — it is demanding, but generous when you take care of it.

Conclusion

Caring for a cashmere sweater may seem intimidating, but a little rigour and gentleness are all it takes to preserve the qualities of this exceptional fibre. Cold wash, flat drying, careful storage: small, simple steps that make all the difference.

At Studio Cashmere8, we believe that well-cared-for cashmere is a faithful companion, able to go through the years with elegance. Give it the attention it deserves, and it will repay you a hundredfold.

→ Discover all our cashmere sweaters