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How to Wash Cashmere Sweaters Safely: Expert Tips to Prevent Damage and Shrinkage

How to Wash Cashmere Sweaters Safely: Expert Tips to Prevent Damage and Shrinkage

Cashmere sweaters are a premium investment, so knowing how to wash them properly is essential to preserve their softness and prevent pilling or shrinkage.

With years of experience caring for fine wool garments, I've refined this method—shared by a friend at Bompard, a trusted luxury cashmere brand—to keep your sweater looking pristine.

It's simple, natural, and effective for maintaining that like-new quality for years. Here's how to clean and care for cashmere properly. Watch:

How to Wash Cashmere Sweaters Safely: Expert Tips to Prevent Damage and Shrinkage

Contents
  • What you need
  • How to wash your cashmere sweater
  • Result: a sweater like new!
  • Machine wash or hand wash?
  • How do I take care of my cashmere?

What you need

  • Special wool detergent
  • Laundry net
  • Cold water
  • Washing machine
  • Bath towel

How to wash your cashmere sweater

1. Place your sweater inside the laundry net. Tip: A clean pillowcase works if you don't have a net.

2. Load the net into the washing machine.

3. Add a few drops of wool detergent to the dispenser.

4. Select a cold wool or 20°C wool program.

5. Choose a gentle spin at maximum 500 rpm.

6. After washing, spread a bath towel flat on a bed or table.

How to Wash Cashmere Sweaters Safely: Expert Tips to Prevent Damage and Shrinkage

7. Lay the still-wet sweater on the towel.

8. Flip the sweater after a few hours to ensure even drying.

9. Once dry, store flat in a dry, ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

Result: a sweater like new!

How to Wash Cashmere Sweaters Safely: Expert Tips to Prevent Damage and Shrinkage

And there you have it! Your cashmere sweater emerges soft, fresh, and undamaged.

Quick, easy, and reliable—this works for cashmere or alpaca scarves, cardigans, hats, and stoles too.

If wool detergent isn't available, a few drops of mild shampoo delivers the same gentle clean without the expense.

Machine wash or hand wash?

Cashmere care often sparks debate, with many believing hand washing in cold water is the only option.

However, wringing and drying by hand can stress the fibers. Leading brands like Bompard now recommend machine washing on modern wool cycles.

These 'pendulum' programs use cold water and minimal spin to gently clean without harm.

How do I take care of my cashmere?

How to Wash Cashmere Sweaters Safely: Expert Tips to Prevent Damage and Shrinkage

Whether from Uniqlo or Monoprix, these 10 expert tips ensure your cashmere lasts:

  • Always use cold water or max 20°C—hot water shrinks and degrades fibers.
  • Use a laundry net in the machine to prevent wool from snagging on the drum.
  • Skip fabric softener—it can cause felting and reduce softness.
  • Avoid dry cleaning or pressing—cashmere thrives on water washing.
  • Wear for 2-3 days max, then air out to eliminate odors naturally.
  • Wash regularly—cashmere handles water well and stays fresher.
  • Never hang to dry or use pins—it distorts the shape.
  • Iron inside out on low heat or use a steam generator for wool.
  • Remove pilling with a wool comb or let washes naturally shed them.
  • Use natural moth repellents in storage—moths target cashmere.