Caring for Cashmere: Washing & Storage Guide

How to Wash Cashmere & Fine Wool Knitwear

We often hear questions like: How do I wash cashmere? Can I machine wash cashmere? How do you store cashmere? Our fibre experts have put together this Cashmere Care Guide to help you care for your cashmere, merino wool, and other fine fibres with ease.

Washing Cashmere Knitwear

Knitwear

At Johnstons of Elgin, we craft luxurious cashmere knitwear designed to last a lifetime. With the right care, you can preserve the softness and quality of your garments, and it's easier than you may think.

Step 1: Remove Pilling

After the first few wears, you may notice small fibre balls or pilling on your cashmere. This is a natural process as loose fibres rub together. Use a cashmere comb to gently remove pilling, leaving your knitwear feeling even softer.

 

Step 2: Hand Wash for Best Results

For washing cashmere at home, we recommend gentle hand washing after every three to four wears. Follow these steps:

*Use lukewarm water and add a small amount of cashmere shampoo.
*Submerge the knitwear and let it soak for a few minutes.
*Gently squeeze the fabric without wringing or stretching.
*Rinse several times with water of the same temperature.

 

Step 3: Reshape & Dry Flat
*Lay the knitwear flat on a towel to dry.
*Gently reshape and smooth it while damp.
*Avoid direct heat and never tumble dry.
*Once dry, iron on a cool setting using a damp cloth to protect the fibres.

How to Store Cashmere & Prevent Moths


Proper storage is key to keeping cashmere in pristine condition. Follow these tips:

*Use cedar wood balls: Natural moth repellents to protect your knitwear.
*Store in breathable bags or drawers to prevent dust and pests.
*Fold cashmere items rather than hanging to maintain shape.

If you find a moth hole, our Cashmere Circle partners can invisibly mend and restore your piece to like-new condition.

 

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Can You Machine Wash Cashmere?

How to Wash Cashmere Scarves, Coats & Blankets

For woven cashmere pieces such as scarves and coats, we recommend professional dry cleaning. However, occasional cleaning can be done at home:

Johnstons of Elgin Block Check Cashmere Vicuna Scarf in Natural shades WV000015RU5642N/A

Refresh Between Dry Cleaning

 
*Shake & Air: Shake your cashmere to remove dust and hang in fresh air to refresh.

 
*Spot Clean: Localised marks or stains on your cashmere items can often be removed by dabbing gently with a moist cloth. Using cold water fibres expanding and possibly shrinking as they cool. Use a light spritz of cold water to dampen the marked area, if the stain is oily, dab gently with cashmere shampoo. Fizzy water can be effective in removing small, fresh stains, as the air bubbles can lift dirt particles.

 

Spot test more vibrantly coloured cashmere pieces with cashmere shampoo in a discreet area before tackling a larger stain. Use a slightly damp white cloth to spot test to ensure none of the colour transfers to the cloth, if it does, please have the item professionally dry cleaned.

 
*Air Dry: Air dry woven cashmere items outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. If an item is very damp, dry it flat to avoid loss of shape. Never tumble dry Cashmere pieces.

Choosing the Right Dry Cleaner

 

If your garment has a ‘P’ or ‘F’ symbol on the care label, it should be dry cleaned. Many countries are phasing out Perchloroethylene (‘PERC’), so we recommend requesting the more eco-friendly ‘F’ method.

Expert Cashmere Care Services

 
Our partners at Cashmere Circle offer professional garment washing, de-pilling, and steaming services to refresh and restore cashmere. This is ideal for deep cleaning, extending the life of your knitwear, and preparing pieces for seasonal storage.

Responsibly sourced. Lovingly crafted. Made in Scotland and made to last.

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