How to care for cashmere so it lasts decades

Cashmere is a living fibre that only gets softer with the years — under one condition: proper care. These are the rules that work without exception, from washing to summer storage.

Washing: less often than you think

Cashmere doesn't need washing after every wear. The fibre restores itself: a few hours of fresh air is enough. A proper wash — once every 5–7 wears, by hand, in water up to 30°C with a gentle wool detergent.

• Dissolve the detergent before immersing the garment.
• Never rub or wring — gentle squeezing only.
• Rinse twice; add a teaspoon of glycerin to the final rinse for softness.
• Dry flat on a towel, away from radiators and direct sun.

Cashmere forgives almost everything except haste.

Pilling: not a defect

Light pilling appears on new garments where friction occurs — a natural property of short fibre. It disappears after 2–3 washes. Remove it with a cashmere comb or an electric de-piller, and the piece looks new again.

Storing between seasons

• Always folded flat — hangers stretch the shoulders.
• A breathable fabric bag, never plastic.
• Cedar balls or lavender against moths — no aggressive chemicals.