Wash cashmere by hand in cool water with a gentle wool wash, press the water out without wringing, then dry it flat on a towel away from heat. That keeps a cashmere jumper soft and the right size for years. Most knitwear in the N.Peal edit is labelled hand wash; tailored and fur-trimmed pieces are dry clean only, so always check the care label first. Shop designer knitwear at Luxury Shoes .
What you need
- A clean basin and cool water, around 30 degrees at most
- A gentle wool wash, never biological detergent
- Two large towels
Step by step
- Check the label. If it says dry clean only, take it to a specialist.
- Turn it inside out. Button cardigans and close zips.
- Soak, do not scrub. Dissolve the wool wash in cool water, submerge the knit and press it gently for a minute. Leave it to soak for five to ten minutes.
- Rinse in cool water at the same temperature. A sudden change in temperature is what makes wool felt.
- Press out the water. Never wring. Roll the knit in a towel and press.
- Dry flat. Lay it on a dry towel, ease it back into shape and leave it away from radiators and direct sun.
Can you machine wash cashmere?
Some machines have a wool cycle that is gentle enough, but hand washing is safer. If you use a machine, choose the wool cycle, cold water, the lowest spin and a mesh bag. Never tumble dry.
When to dry clean
Dry clean double-face pieces, coats, capes with fur, jackets and anything with a structured lining. The Double Face Robe Cashmere Cardigan in Ecru White and the Ayla Fur Trim Cashmere Cape in Pebble Grey are examples where the label says dry clean only.
How often to wash cashmere
Less than you think. Air a jumper between wears and wash it every five to six wears, sooner if it is worn next to the skin. Washing removes body oils that attract moths.
Storing cashmere
Fold it, never hang it, because hangers stretch the shoulders. Store it clean in a breathable cotton bag with cedar. Moths go for worn, unwashed knitwear.
For pilling, read why cashmere pills and how to fix it.
How to remove stains from cashmere
Treat a mark as soon as you can. Blot it with cool water and a drop of wool wash, working from the outside in, and never rub. Oil marks lift better with a little wool wash left on for ten minutes before rinsing. Leave red wine, ink and makeup on a dry-clean-only piece to a specialist.
How to dry cashmere without stretching it
Weight is what stretches wet knitwear, so keep it flat the whole time. Change the towel underneath once it is damp. If a jumper has grown a little, ease it back to its measured width while it is still damp; the half chest figures in our N.Peal size guide are a useful reference.
Steaming and ironing
A handheld steamer lifts creases and refreshes cashmere between washes. If you iron, turn the knit inside out, use a cool wool setting and press through a damp cloth. Never press ribbing flat.
Protecting cashmere from moths
Moths lay eggs in dark, undisturbed places and the larvae feed on natural fibres, especially where there is sweat. Wash before you store, use cedar blocks and lavender, and take knitwear out to air every few weeks in summer. Freezing a sealed knit for 48 hours kills eggs if you suspect them.
Your cashmere care calendar
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| After every wear | Air it flat overnight and fold it |
| Every five to six wears | Hand wash cool and dry flat |
| When pills appear | Comb lightly with a cashmere comb |
| End of winter | Wash, dry fully and store in cotton bags with cedar |
Frequently asked questions
Can you wash cashmere in the washing machine?
Yes, on a wool cycle with cold water and a low spin, but hand washing is safer. Never tumble dry cashmere.
What temperature should I wash cashmere at?
Cool, around 30 degrees at most, and rinse at the same temperature to avoid felting.
Can I use normal detergent on cashmere?
No. Use a gentle wool wash. Biological detergents contain enzymes that break down animal fibres.
Does cashmere shrink when washed?
It shrinks and felts in hot water, with sudden temperature changes and in a tumble dryer. Cool water and flat drying prevent it.
How do I dry cashmere?
Roll it in a towel to press out the water, then lay it flat on a dry towel in its natural shape, away from heat.
Should I hang cashmere?
No. Fold cashmere to keep the shoulders from stretching.
Read next: Why cashmere pills, N.Peal size guide, What is Mongolian cashmere?.
By Gemma Deeks, Luxury Handbags Fashion Editor. Updated 19 October 2026.
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