HOW TO CLEAN AND DRY CASHMERE AT HOME
Cashmere sweaters, scarves, hats and blankets offer unmatched warmth and luxury. When it comes to cleaning cashmere, many assume that dry cleaning is the only option. However, you can clean most types of cashmere at home.
By following the proper washing techniques, you can help ensure your cashmere stays soft and beautiful. This guide will show you the correct way to clean and dry cashmere at home to help keep your favorite pieces looking great, year after year.
CAN YOU WASH CASHMERE IN A WASHING MACHINE?
Start by checking the care tag on your garment. The care tag will provide guidance on whether your cashmere is machine-washable or not.
If your cashmere is machine-washable, use a wool/delicate cycle and mild detergent. For non-machine-washable cashmere, itʼs best to opt for gentle hand washing.
When it comes to washing your cherished cashmere items, select Maytag® washers offer a delicate cycle specifically designed to handle delicate fabrics.
HOW TO WASH CASHMERE
Before washing your cashmere items, check the clothing labels and verify the recommended washer and dryer settings. You should also choose a mild detergent when you put cashmere in a washing machine. By following the detailed steps below, you can help maintain your cashmereʼs pristine condition:
SUPPLIES
Mild detergent
TOOLS
Washer and dryer
Laundry symbol guide (for reference)
Drying rack (optional)
STEP 1: CHECK CLOTHING LABELS
Read the labels on your cashmere garments to determine if they are machine-washable. Look for specific care instructions and any laundry symbols that indicate machine washing is safe.
STEP 2: PREPARE THE WASHER
Set your washer to the delicate cycle with cool water. Add the appropriate amount of mild detergent according to the washerʼs instructions.
Some machines may require the use of a mild high-efficiency (HE) detergent. It is specifically formulated to help remove stains and soils in machines that use lower water levels.
Additionally, it is advisable to avoid using fabric softener when washing wool or cashmere. Fabric softeners can leave behind residue and compromise the inherent softness of the fabric.
STEP 3: TEST A SMALL PATCH
Before washing your cashmere, it is important to test a small patch of the fabric. Choose an inconspicuous area, such as an inside seam or hem, and apply a small amount of detergent.
Gently rub the fabric together and observe any adverse reactions, such as color bleeding or fabric damage. If no negative effects occur, it is likely safe to proceed with washing the rest of your cashmere items.
STEP 4: LOAD CASHMERE ITEMS
Place your cashmere items into the washer, trying not to overload the machine. You can include other laundry items in the washer, but itʼs advisable to avoid washing cashmere with heavy materials like denim.
The friction between these fabrics can potentially damage your delicate cashmere. To help protect your cashmere from friction, itʼs recommended to use a laundry bag during the washing process.
Select Maytag® washers are equipped with a range of features that are perfect for handling delicate items with care. With options like cool water wash settings and stainless steel wash baskets, these washers help provide an ideal environment for cleaning delicate fabrics while minimizing the risk of snagging or damage.
STEP 5: WASH AND RINSE
Start the washing cycle and allow the machine to complete the wash and rinse cycles. The gentle agitation and cool water will help protect the delicate cashmere fibers.
Select Maytag® washers come with a drawer dispenser that delivers powerful cleaning, attacking everyday tough soils early in the cycle, by mixing water and detergent—liquid or powder—and dispersing it throughout the load.
STEP 6: DRYING
After the wash cycle, you can opt for a gentle spin cycle to remove excess water. Avoid high-speed spin cycles that may damage knitted cloth like cashmere. Lay the cashmere items flat on a clean towel to air dry or use a drying rack. Avoid hanging the garments, as they may stretch.
HOW TO HAND WASH CASHMERE SWEATERS, SCARFS, JUMPERS AND MORE
Below are some key steps to ensure proper care and maintenance of your cashmere garments:
Test the garment for color bleeding, shrinkage or warping.
Turn cashmere jumpers inside out before hand-washing.
Use cool water and a mild detergent.
Submerge the items in water for approximately 30 minutes.
Gently agitate the garment and rinse thoroughly.
Press out excess water, avoiding wringing or twisting.
Lay the item flat to dry on a clean towel, reshaping if needed.
HOW TO DRY CASHMERE
To dry cashmere garments, avoid tumble drying or hanging them on lines. Instead, lay them flat on a clean, dry surface and allow them to air dry. This gentle drying method helps maintain the shape and softness of cashmere, ensuring that your garments remain in excellent condition.
DOES CASHMERE SHRINK IN THE DRYER?
Cashmere is sensitive to heat and can shrink in the dryer if exposed to high temperatures. To help prevent shrinkage, it is recommended not to tumble dry cashmere garments.
Instead, opt for air drying by laying them flat on a clean surface. This gentle drying method helps preserve the quality and fit of cashmere, ensuring that it retains its luxurious softness and shape.
HOW TO CARE FOR AND MAINTAIN CASHMERE CLOTHING
To care for and maintain cashmere clothing, follow these tips:
Wash cashmere items sparingly, as they donʼt require frequent cleaning.
Gently remove pilling with a cashmere comb or fabric shaver.
Treat stains promptly using a mild detergent and gentle dabbing motions, avoiding rubbing or soaking.
Store cashmere folded in a breathable bag or drawer, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
EXPLORE MAYTAG® WASHING MACHINES
Take control of your laundry routine with powerful and dependable Maytag® washing machines with a range of customizable settings to accommodate different fabric types. With options like deep fill or quick wash cycles on select top load and front load models, you can tailor each wash to suit the needs of your fabrics.
