Cashmere and Fine Woolen Care

A worthy investment, quality cashmere can provide an impossibly soft, cloud-like embrace for many years.

Cashmere comes from the soft, downy undercoat of certain breeds of goat that originated from the Himalayas. It is exceptionally fine and lightweight yet incredibly durable and warm, approximately three times more insulating than sheep wool. It is also an incredibly limited resource; it takes a goat about a year to produce enough fiber for one scarf. Owning a piece of cashmere or another fine woolen can be immensely satisfying, especially when we show it the proper care.

Combing is an important part of maintenance. In addition to removing pills, the natural oils are coaxed out of the fiber to help condition the garment while revealing a rejuvenated layer.

Fine woolens are naturally odor resistant, so we can often wear them many times before there is a need to wash. Airing them out in between wears is important to give the garment a chance to breath before carefully folding them up and placing them in a drawer.

When it is time to clean them, fine woolens are best served with a wash in tepid water and a gentle detergent as opposed to being dry cleaned, as the harsh chemicals of this method can crush the soft fibers. While hand-washing is ideal, the washing machine can be used provided a garment bag is used and the hand-wash cycle is selected. Laying the garment flat on a towel to dry away from heat and the sun will ensure the shape stays intact.