Gentle care and key steps: proper cashmere washing
- Garment preparation: before putting cashmere in the washing machine, take some precautions. Be sure to fasten all fasteners (button, zipper) to avoid damage during washing. Also, if you wish, you can turn the garment inside out to protect the outer surface.
- Use a protective bag: to further protect your cashmere garment during machine washing, it is advisable to place it in a protective laundry bag. This will avoid direct friction with the washing machine and reduce the risk of ball formation or damage.
- Select the gentle wash cycle: when you set the washing machine, be sure to select the gentle wash cycle or the cycle specifically for wool. This will ensure gentle handling of the garment and minimize fiber damage.
- Use a mild detergent: choose a detergent specifically for delicate garments or a detergent specially formulated for cashmere.
- Set a low temperature: water temperature is another important aspect to consider. Set the washing machine to a temperature of 20 degrees. Avoid hot water that may cause shrinkage or alteration of the shape of the item.
- Proper drying: after washing, it is advisable to dry the cashmere properly. Take a clean towel and lay it on a flat surface, such as a table or countertop. Place the lying cashmere sweater on the towel, taking care to align the seams and arrange it in its original shape. Make sure the sweater is fully stretched, with no creases or wrinkles. Gently roll up the towel with the cashmere sweater inside. You could also put the roll with the sweater in it on a heater to let all the water dry faster. After removing excess moisture, you can lay the cashmere sweater on a clean towel or clothesline. Lay on a flat surface, never hang because it stretches and loses its original shape. Also avoid the dryer, as heat and movement can cause the garment to shrink or alter its shape. By following these steps, your sweater should dry safely and retain its original shape.
The ideal frequency of washing for shining fiber
Contrary to common belief, cashmere is not afraid of water; in fact, it loves to be pampered with regular care. The more carefully you wash cashmere, following the right practices, the more beautiful and soft it will become over time.
Goats face difficult conditions, often in the rain. Their fur is naturally water-resistant. When wet, the fibers stretch temporarily, only to return to their original shape during drying. Through washing, the renewal of the fabric is promoted, removing much of any balls that may have formed, thus ensuring that the knit is always fresh and blemish-free.
This fine fiber not only tolerates water contact but also benefits significantly. Each properly performed wash becomes a moment of renewal that allows the garment to acquire a new vitality and beauty.
How to dry cashmere
To ensure proper drying of cashmere, start by gently laying the garment on a towel, making sure it is spread evenly across the surface. After placing it carefully, roll the towel and garment together until it is completely covered. Apply gentle pressure to absorb excess moisture.
Next, carefully unroll the towel and place the garment on a flat, dry surface. By following this sequence, you not only promote gentle drying but also help maintain the original shape and softness of your precious garment.
Pilling formation: a natural process and how to keep it to a minimum
The origin of the word “pilling” is related to the English verb “to pill”. Cashmere, although prone to lint formation, does not exhibit this phenomenon as a defect, but rather as a natural reaction that occurs when we wear the garment.
The twist density of cashmere yarn influences softness and lint formation. A more closed thread may improve pilling, but it becomes less soft. In contrast, a light and soft thread tends to create lint. Thinner fibers are more prone to peeling: a knit made from ordinary wool has fewer peeling problems than one made from extra-fine merino or cashmere.
After the first few times you wear your cashmere sweater, small dots may then appear on the surface, generated by the interweaving of the shorter, loose fibers in areas prone to rubbing, but don’t worry! With a few washes, these dots will disappear, and your sweater will be as good as new. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can use your hands to gently remove any excess pellets. Alternatively, combs or anti-pilling brushes are suitable options for stroking the garment and ridding it of unwanted pellets.
Conclusion
Washing cashmere garments at home may seem like an initial challenge, but by following the right steps it is a safe and affordable process. Taking the courage to care for your garments at home will not only save you money on dry cleaning costs but also give you control over how to lovingly treat your precious fabrics. With proper care and advice, you will find that washing at home is a simple and effective way to preserve its beauty over time.
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