What ruins cashmere??
Cashmere is a luxurious and soft wool fiber that is obtained from cashmere goats and has been a symbol of luxury for centuries. It is a delicate fabric that requires special care to keep it in top condition. When it comes to cashmere, there are a lot of things that can ruin it.
Water and Moisture
Cashmere is not suitable for water and moisture. When you expose cashmere to water, it will lose shape and become rough. Prolonged exposure to water can also cause the color to fade. Similarly, moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can be a death sentence for cashmere.
Heat
Cashmere should never be exposed to high temperatures. When it is exposed to heat, it can shrink and lose its softness. This is because cashmere fibers are very fine and delicate, and they can easily break when exposed to high temperatures. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid drying cashmere at high heat and never iron cashmere directly.
Sunlight
UV rays can also damage cashmere. Sunlight can cause colors to fade and weaken the fabric's structure, leading to holes and thinning. When storing cashmere, it is advisable to keep it away from direct sunlight. If sunlight is inevitable, it’s better to store it in a tinted storage bag that can block out UV rays.
Perfumes and Fragrances
Perfumes, colognes, and other fragranced products can ruin cashmere. The chemicals present in these products can react with the wool fibers and cause discoloration. To keep your cashmere in good condition, it is better to avoid spraying perfumes directly onto your cashmere.
Pills and Fuzz
Cashmere is prone to pilling or producing fuzz. This happens when fibers become loose and start to knot, forming little balls on the surface of the fabric. This process can take place due to friction from wearing or washing cashmere. To prevent pilling, it is advisable to hand-wash your cashmere with a gentle detergent and avoid using the dryer altogether.
Moths
Moths are a cashmere's worst nightmare. These small insects, along with their larvae, feast on natural animal fibers, including cashmere. Moths are attracted to undisturbed areas, such as the corners of closets or drawers where cashmere might be stored for an extended period. To protect your cashmere, it is best to store it in an airtight container or use moth repellents such as cedar blocks or lavender sachets.
Washing Machine and Dryer
The washing machine and the dryer are the worst enemies of cashmere. Cashmere is not a fabric that can be treated in the machine, as the harsh agitation can weaken the fibers. On the other hand, the dryer can cause the cashmere fabric to shrink, lose its shape, and become brittle. To keep cashmere in optimal condition, it is advised to wash it by hand rather than using a washing machine and to lay it flat to dry rather than using a tumble dryer.
Bleach
Bleach is a harsh chemical that can damage the delicate fibers of cashmere. When bleached, cashmere wool becomes brittle and easily breaks. To ensure that cashmere fibers stay healthy and strong-looking, never expose cashmere materials to bleach.
Stains
Stains can ruin cashmere's appearance. Because cashmere is somewhat delicate, it needs special care when dealing with blemishes. Chemical substances such as vinegar or lemon juice can cause permanent discoloration, so it's best to avoid using them. Instead, it's recommended to use a gentle laundry detergent and warm water to help remove the mark. In case of heavy stains, it's better to take the fabric to a professional cleaner.
No Care Instructions
Not reading the care instructions while washing or cleaning your cashmere material can already ruin it. Cashmere requires specific handling for cleaning, ironing, and storage. If you fail to adhere to these instructions, your cashmere fabric may show signs of early wear and tear. Thus, it's better to take time to read the care instructions carefully so that your cashmere lasts longer and stays in excellent condition.