A Cashmere scarf is so much more than just a routine everyday scarf. When Cashmere is used to make a scarf, the result is a sublimely gorgeous and ultra-soft scarf that is remarkably warm, lightweight, and undeniably chic. And because Cashmere fibers are so delicate, scarves made from this material are not only expensive, but they also demand special care and attention when being washed.
But as delicate as Cashmere scarves are, when they are cared for properly, they can last a lifetime. What’s even better is that with every wash, your scarf will only get softer and more comfortable.
The good thing is keeping your Cashmere scarf in excellent condition is not all that difficult to do but it does require a little more patience and effort than your other garments and accessories. Here is how to wash a Cashmere scarf, so you can keep it looking as beautiful as the day you purchased it.
Hand-Washing a Cashmere Scarf
Hand-washing your scarf is usually recommended when it only needs a bit of spot cleaning. Using lukewarm water and a very small amount of mild detergent or baby shampoo will help clean up most minor stains and leave your scarf smelling fresh.
That said, if your scarf has been kept in storage for a while or it has accrued some heavier stains, then you will probably want to use your washing machine to give it a deeper and more thorough clean. Giving your scarf an occasional deep clean is important because if any tiny food particles or strands of hair remain on the scarf for too long, they will attract the one thing that can ruin Cashmere fibers in no time – moths.
How to Machine-Wash a Cashmere Scarf
You may think that putting your Cashmere scarf in the washing machine might ruin it, but it is safe if you have the right type of washer, and you use the right settings. Cashmere scarves should only be washed in washing machines that have “hand-wash” settings. If your machine only has “delicate,” then you should wash your scarf by hand.
Here are the steps to machine-washing your Cashmere scarf:
- If your machine does have a hand-wash setting, then set your washer to that setting and make sure the water temperature setting is “cold” and the spin setting is set to “low.”
- Start filling the tub with water.
- Add the appropriate amount of wool or Cashmere washing shampoo.
- Place your scarf in a washing bag before putting it in the washer.
- When the washer completes its washing cycle, remove the scarf as quickly as possible and gently squeeze any remaining water from the fibers. Never rub, wring, or twist your scarf while you are washing or rinsing it.
How to Dry a Cashmere Scarf After Washing It
When it comes to preserving your Cashmere scarf, how you dry it is just as important as how you wash it. You should never place a Cashmere scarf in a tumble dryer, or you will ruin it. Remove the excess water as explained in Step 5 above and then lay it out on a towel. Gently roll the towel up and lightly press it as you go to remove even more water. Once finished, un-roll the towel and scarf and re-shape it, so it is laying flat.
Your Cashmere scarf must be left to dry in this manner. Do not hang it, or the weight of the water will stretch it out of shape. You also want to keep it away from heat sources like radiators, hairdryers, or even sunlight while it is drying, or it may shrink. Cashmere needs to air-dry naturally to retain its size and shape.
Give your Cashmere scarf the care and attention it deserves and needs, and it will provide you with years of warmth and comfort. This is no more important than when you are washing and drying it. Following the steps and advice above will help ensure that your Cashmere scarf endures for decades.