How to Care for Wool and Cashmere in Winter: A Complete Guide

Wool and cashmere are natural fibers that look luxurious. These two winter fabrics are popular for their warmth, softness, and comfort. Whether you are looking for cosy sweaters, stylish scarves, or soft blankets, you can choose any of these two fabrics. However, maintaining the shape, texture, and longevity of these materials is very important since they are delicate. In this guide, we will help you understand the steps for wool and cashmere care throughout the cold season.

1. Washing wool and cashmere garments

In most or even all of your wool and cashmere garments, you will find a label on which ‘dry clean only’ is written. However, if you take proper care, you can wash them at home.

Hand washing

To choose the most gentle approach, hand-washing is any day recommended. Here are the steps you need to follow:

  • Fill a basin with cold water: Since these fabrics are delicate, you must avoid using hot water at any cost. Hot water may cause the fibers to shrink.

  • Use a mild detergent: Go for a detergent that is specifically formulated for wool or cashmere, as regular laundry detergents may damage the soft fibers.

  • Submerge the garment: You have to very gently press the garment in the water, and at the same time ensure that it is fully saturated. Do not wring, scrub, or twist the fabric.

  • Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the garment in cold water until the water runs clear.

  • Avoid fabric softener: While you may feel the urge to use fabric softeners, you must know that it can damage the fibers and reduce the natural softness of wool and cashmere.

Machine washing 

If you are wondering how to wash cashmere and wool in the washing machine, you should only do it if the garment is labeled as machine washable.

  • Use the gentle cycle: You have to set your washing machine to the delicate or wool cycle with cold water.

  • Place the garment in a mesh bag: When you do so, it will help prevent snagging or stretching during the wash cycle.

  • Use wool-specific detergent: These detergents are more suitable and designed to protect the fibers.

Drying wool and cashmere

You should try not to wring out the garment to remove excess water. Instead, you should do the following:

  • Press gently: You can lay the garment on a clean towel and roll it up. Press to absorb the water.

  • Dry flat: To dry flat, you have to lay the garment flat on a dry towel. This will help in reshaping it to its original form. Do not hang the garment, as the weight of the water will cause stretching.

2. How to store wool and cashmere properly

Proper storage plays a very important role in maintaining the quality of your wool and cashmere garments.

Clean before storing

Always clean your garments before storing them for the season. Dirt, oil, and sweat left on the fabric can weaken the fibers and attract pests like moths.

Storage options

  • Use breathable storage bags: You should not use plastic bags that trap moisture and cause the fibers to deteriorate. Instead, you can opt for cotton or linen garment bags.

  • Keep garments in a cool, dry place: Try storing wool and cashmere in direct sunlight or places with high humidity, as this can lead to mold or mildew growth.

  • Add moth repellents: Protecting wool from moths is quite necessary. Moths love to feast on wool and cashmere. To do so, you have to store your clothes with natural moth repellents such as cedarwood blocks, lavender sachets, or rosemary.

Folding vs. Hanging

While it may seem natural to hang wool or cashmere garments, this can affect their shape over time. Instead, you can do the following:

  • Fold with care: Gently fold sweaters, scarves, and shawls. You can use tissue paper to line the folds for extra support.

  • Avoid heavy storage boxes: Choose flat, breathable containers that will not crush or wrinkle the garments.

3. Dealing with stains and odours

Wool and cashmere are naturally resistant to odours, but if you find a stain or your garment has absorbed unpleasant smells, here is how to handle it:

Stain removal

  • Act quickly: If the stains are fresh, you can blot the affected area with a clean cloth. This will absorb excess liquid. Make sure, you do not rub the area.

  • Use wool-safe stain remover: You can apply a small amount of wool-safe stain remover to the area. Always test on an inconspicuous spot first.

  • Cold water rinse: Rinse the stained area with cold water. Ensure no residue of soap is left behind.

Odour removal

If your wool or cashmere garments smell musty or like body odour, then here are some tips for you:

  • Air them out: Hang them outside in the fresh air on a dry day. This will help you to naturally remove odour from the garment.

  • Use baking soda: If the smell is stubborn, you must place the garment in a breathable bag with a box of baking soda overnight. Shake it off the next day.

Wrapping it up!

Wool and cashmere are timeless fabrics that can last for years when properly cared for. Whether you are enjoying the cosy warmth of a cashmere sweater or the rugged elegance of a woolen shawl, understanding how to wash, store, and preserve these materials is key to ensuring they stay in top shape throughout the winter. With these tips, you can enjoy the comfort, softness, and elegance of your wool and cashmere garments season after season.