Can You Wash Cashmere in the Washing Machine Safely?

Cashmere feels luxurious but caring for it can be tricky. You might wonder if tossing your cashmere sweater in the washing machine is safe or if it will ruin the soft fibers. Understanding how to wash cashmere properly helps you keep your favorite pieces looking fresh and cozy.

You don’t have to avoid the washing machine entirely, but there are important steps to follow to protect your cashmere. With the right approach, you can save time and still maintain that delicate feel. Let’s explore whether you can wash cashmere in the washing machine and how to do it without damage.

Understanding Cashmere Fabric

Cashmere is a delicate fiber that demands specific care to maintain its softness and durability. Knowing its nature helps you handle washing methods like using the washing machine carefully.

What Is Cashmere?

Cashmere comes from the undercoat of Cashmere goats found mainly in regions such as Mongolia, China, and Nepal. This fiber measures 14 to 19 microns in diameter, making it finer and softer than traditional wool. Its superior insulation and light weight create luxurious clothing. Unlike regular wool, cashmere fiber is more prone to damage from harsh agitation or high temperatures.

Why Cashmere Requires Special Care

Cashmere’s fine fibers easily lose shape and softness under stress. Machine washing with regular cycles risks shrinking, pilling, or stretching the fabric. Its natural oils that keep the fiber smooth may wash away with harsh detergents or hot water. Proper care involves gentle handling and suitable cleaning methods to preserve the fabric’s texture and appearance.

Can You Wash Cashmere in the Washing Machine?

Cashmere requires careful handling, but you can wash it in a machine if you follow strict guidelines. Understanding the risks and safe conditions helps protect your cashmere garments.

Risks of Machine Washing Cashmere

Machine washing cashmere exposes it to agitation that causes shrinking, stretching, or pilling. Hot water weakens fibers and removes natural oils, making cashmere rough and brittle. Harsh detergents cause fiber damage and color fading. Fast spin cycles can distort the garment’s shape. Ignoring these risks results in a loss of softness and fit.

When Machine Washing Is Possible

Use a washing machine only if it has a delicate or wool cycle with cold water temperatures below 86°F (30°C). Choose a gentle, pH-neutral detergent formulated for wool or cashmere. Place the garment inside a mesh laundry bag to minimize friction. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach. Select the shortest cycle and disable the spin cycle or set it to low speed. Remove the item promptly and reshape it flat to dry, never in a dryer. Machine washing suits lightly soiled cashmere, not heavily stained or worn items.

Best Practices for Washing Cashmere in the Machine

Washing cashmere in the machine demands careful preparation and the right techniques. Applying precise methods protects the delicate fibers and maintains your garment’s softness and shape.

Choosing the Right Detergent

Choose a mild, pH-neutral detergent designed for wool or delicate fabrics. Avoid detergents with enzymes, bleach, or fabric softeners because they degrade cashmere fibers. Use small amounts—around 1 teaspoon for a regular load—to prevent detergent residue that can stiffen the fabric.

Selecting the Correct Washing Settings

Set your machine to a wool or delicate cycle with cold water below 86°F (30°C). Use the shortest wash time available, typically under 30 minutes, to reduce agitation. Activate a low-speed spin cycle to minimize stretching and pilling. Skip the pre-wash and intensive modes since they increase wear on cashmere.

Using Protective Laundry Bags

Place cashmere items inside a mesh laundry bag to shield fibers from friction during the cycle. The bag also prevents snagging on zippers or buttons. Ensure the mesh is fine enough to keep fibers contained but allows water and detergent to flow freely for effective cleaning.

Alternative Methods to Clean Cashmere

You can preserve your cashmere’s softness and shape by using cleaning methods beyond the washing machine. These alternatives reduce the risk of damage to the delicate fibers.

Hand Washing Tips

Hand wash your cashmere with cold or lukewarm water below 86°F (30°C) to avoid shrinking. Use a mild, pH-neutral detergent formulated for wool or delicate fabrics. Submerge the garment gently and swirl without rubbing or wringing to prevent fiber distortion. Let it soak for 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water until no detergent residue remains. Press out excess water carefully by rolling the item in a clean towel—never twist or squeeze. Lay flat on another dry towel to air dry, reshaping the garment to maintain form.

Professional Dry Cleaning

Professional dry cleaning offers a safe alternative when your cashmere is heavily soiled or has tough stains. Dry cleaners use solvents that clean without immersing cashmere in water, minimizing risks of shrinking or felting. Opt for cleaners experienced with delicate fibers and specify your garment’s material to ensure proper handling. Limit dry cleaning frequency to preserve natural oils and softness inherent in cashmere fibers.

How to Dry and Store Cashmere Properly

Proper drying and storage keep your cashmere soft, shaped, and long-lasting. Handling damp cashmere carefully prevents damage to its delicate fibers.

Avoiding Damage During Drying

Lay your cashmere flat on a clean, dry towel immediately after washing. Avoid hanging it, as this stretches the fabric and causes misshaping. Roll the towel with the garment inside to gently squeeze out excess water without twisting or wringing, which breaks fibers. Air-dry the garment flat on a dry towel away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid tumble dryers, which cause shrinking and fiber distortion.

Best Storage Techniques to Maintain Quality

Fold your cashmere garments and store them in a cool, dry place to prevent stretching from hanging. Use breathable cotton storage bags or boxes to protect against dust while allowing airflow. Avoid plastic bags, as trapped moisture encourages mildew and fiber damage. Place cedar balls or lavender sachets nearby to repel moths naturally without chemical exposure. Rotate stored cashmere pieces seasonally to keep fibers fresh and prevent permanent creasing.

Conclusion

Washing cashmere in your machine is possible but demands careful attention to protect its delicate fibers. By following the right steps and using gentle settings, you can keep your cashmere looking and feeling luxurious without risking damage. Remember, treating your cashmere with care ensures it stays soft and lasts for years to come.