A quality cashmere scarf represents a significant investment, often costing several hundred dollars for premium pieces. The good news is that with proper care, cashmere actually improves with age, becoming softer and more beautiful over time. The key is understanding how to clean, store, and maintain this luxurious fibre correctly.

Many cashmere owners make costly mistakes that damage their scarves prematurely. This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your cashmere looking magnificent for years, even decades, to come.

How Often Should You Clean Cashmere?

One of the most common mistakes cashmere owners make is over-washing. Unlike cotton or synthetic fabrics, cashmere doesn't need frequent cleaning. The natural properties of cashmere fibres resist odours and dirt.

🔑 Key Takeaway

Clean your cashmere scarf only when visibly soiled or after every 7-10 wears. Between washes, simply air it out overnight to refresh the fibres.

After wearing your scarf, let it rest for at least 24 hours before wearing it again. This allows the fibres to spring back to their natural shape and releases any absorbed moisture or odours.

The Proper Way to Wash Cashmere

Despite what many believe, you can safely wash cashmere at home. In fact, gentle hand washing is often preferable to dry cleaning, which uses harsh chemicals that can damage fibres over time.

Hand Washing Method

  1. Fill a basin with lukewarm water (around 30 degrees Celsius). Hot water will cause shrinkage.
  2. Add detergent sparingly. Use a gentle wool wash, baby shampoo, or specialty cashmere cleanser. Never use regular laundry detergent or fabric softener.
  3. Submerge the scarf and gently swish for 2-3 minutes. Don't rub, twist, or agitate the fabric aggressively.
  4. Rinse thoroughly in clean lukewarm water until no soap remains. You may need to change the water several times.
  5. Remove excess water by pressing the scarf gently between your palms. Never wring or twist.
  6. Lay flat on a towel, roll up the towel, and press gently to absorb moisture.
  7. Reshape and dry flat on a fresh dry towel away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
⚠️ Important Warning

Never hang wet cashmere. The weight of the water will stretch the fibres permanently, distorting the shape of your scarf.

Machine Washing (If Absolutely Necessary)

Some modern cashmere can tolerate machine washing on the gentlest cycle, but this should be a last resort. If you must use a machine:

Dealing with Pilling

Pilling is the small balls of fibre that form on cashmere surfaces, particularly in areas of friction. All cashmere pills to some degree - it's a natural result of loose fibres working their way out of the yarn. However, you can minimise and manage it effectively.

Why Cashmere Pills

Pilling occurs when friction loosens fibres from the yarn, which then tangle into small balls. It's more common in the first few wears as loose surface fibres shed. Interestingly, higher-quality cashmere may pill more initially because longer fibres create more loose ends, but these eventually shed away, leaving a smoother surface.

Removing Pills Safely

Use a cashmere comb or a specialised fabric shaver to remove pills. Work gently in one direction across the fabric. Never pull or pick at pills with your fingers, as this can damage the surrounding fibres.

💡 Pro Tip

De-pill your cashmere when it's dry and laid flat on a hard surface. Take your time and use gentle, short strokes. A quality cashmere comb is a worthwhile investment that protects your scarves.

Preventing Excessive Pilling

Proper Storage for Cashmere

How you store cashmere during the off-season is just as important as how you clean it. Improper storage can lead to moth damage, stretching, and permanent creasing.

Folding vs. Hanging

Always fold cashmere - never hang it. Hanging causes the fabric to stretch under its own weight, especially at the shoulders or corners where hangers create pressure points. Fold your scarf loosely and avoid sharp creases.

Protecting Against Moths

Moths are cashmere's greatest enemy. These pests are attracted to natural fibres and can destroy a prized scarf in a single season. Protect your collection with these measures:

ℹ️ Storage Tip

Never store cashmere in dry cleaning bags. The plastic traps moisture and prevents the fibres from breathing, which can lead to mildew and accelerated deterioration.

Handling Stains and Spills

When accidents happen, quick action makes all the difference. Here's how to handle common stains:

For stubborn stains, take your scarf to a professional cleaner who specialises in natural fibres. The cost is worth protecting your investment.

Reviving Flattened or Tired Cashmere

Over time, cashmere can lose some of its loft and softness. Before giving up on a tired piece, try these revival techniques:

When to Seek Professional Care

While most cashmere maintenance can be done at home, some situations call for professional help:

With these care techniques, your cashmere scarf will provide warmth, comfort, and elegance for many years. The minimal effort required for proper maintenance is a small price for the lasting luxury cashmere provides.