How to Care for Cashmere Sweaters

Things You Need:

* Mild soap
* Cold water                     

* Soft towel
* Tissue paper

Cashmere is a delicate wool knit that requires special handling and care to preserve the integrity of the fabric. Since cashmere sweaters can snag, absorb odors and attract dirt and stains relatively easily, it's important to clean and care for cashmere sweaters with mild cleaning products and find ways to protect this fine fabric. Follow these steps to care for cashmere sweaters.             
Instructions:

1. Treat stains immediately with cold water and mild soap. Both men's and women's cashmere sweaters are meant to be hand-washed only; stains can be removed easily as soon as they appear. Gently rub the soap into the stain using a soft cloth that has been immersed in cold water.

2. Keep the cashmere as straight as possible when cleaning. Wringing or twisting cashmere sweaters while washing or rinsing can damage the delicate fibers, so it's important to lay the sweater out on a flat surface throughout the cleaning process.

3. Allow the cashmere sweater to air dry. Dry-cleaning processes or home dryers can be too harsh on cashmere fibers and put the sweater at risk for burning or losing its shape and form. Lay the sweater out on a clean and flat surface so that it can dry naturally.

4. Protect cashmere fibers when storing in a closet or drawer. Since cashmere is such a delicate fabric, you'll need to protect it from other fabrics and surfaces it comes into contact with. Use a piece of tissue paper to separate cashmere sweaters from other sweaters and clothes when stacked in an armoire.

5. Iron the sweater on the lowest setting. Cashmere sweaters can scorch easily when they come into contact with a hot iron, so remove wrinkles using only the lowest heat setting of the iron or steamer.

Tips:

1. Keep the sweater away from heat sources and direct sunlight when storing to protect the integrity of the fibers and preserve the sweater's color.

2. If you are washing the sweaters in a sink, make sure the sink is completely sanitized first or the cashmere fibers will absorb bacteria and odor.

3. Hanging a cashmere sweater can cause it to become misshapen and may break down the fibers in the shoulder and neck area of the sweater.

4. Cashmere absorbs water very easily, so larger garments, such as men's cashmere sweaters, will become very heavy and can be difficult to handle when wet.

5. Be careful while using deodorants, makeup and lotions, because these can stain or discolor cashmere.

View All Women's Cashmere Sweaters