Even though Cashmere scarves are one of the most sought-after fabrics in the world, they need proper care and careful handling. Be it their use, wearing, washing, drying, or storage, Cashmere scarves need full attention and care. While owners of Cashmere ask us hundreds of questions about the management of their Cashmere scarf, the most common of these is about washing Cashmere. And post washing, if the owner’s Cashmere scarf shrinks, then that becomes another story.
Shrinking of Cashmere is often a big issue, and because owners do not know what to do with a shrunk scarf, they lose all hope of wearing it in the future.
Does Cashmere Scarf Shrink?
When Cashmere scarves aren't washed the way they should be, it leads to a number of harm caused to the fabric. Cashmere is exceptionally gentle and delicate and demands the same treatment. If not treated carefully, it might lead to bobbling, pilling, tearing, or shrinking of the precious piece. Hence, one should have proper information and knowledge about how to deal with a Cashmere scarf. In fact, before buying a Cashmere scarf, one should gain information on its care, wash, wear and storage.
How to Wash Cashmere?
To avoid shrinking, or for that matter any harm to the Cashmere scarf, one has to wash the scarf in the most gentle way. Here are the steps to wash Cashmere scarves like they deserve to be washed:
Step 1: Fill a tub with lukewarm water. Make sure the water is not hot. The most common reason that Cashmere scarves shrink is the use of hot water.
Step 2: Pour Cashmere shampoo into it. You can even use mild baby shampoo if Cashmere shampoo is not available
Step 3: Soak the cashmere scarf in this mixture for 30 minutes. Make sure the entire base gets fully immersed in it.
Step 4: After 30 minutes, take the scarf out, and squeeze it by placing it in between your hands. Do not Wring the scarf
Step 5: Rinse the scarf with cold clean water and squeeze between your hands again and again till the water runs clear. Your Cashmere scarf is clean now.
Step 6: Be extremely gentle with your scarf during the washing process, make sure you do not rub the scarf harshly as Cashmere can tear easily with your hands.
How to Dry Cashmere Scarf?
Post washing, it is time to dry the scarf. It is again time-consuming and fairly difficult. Follow the steps to dry your scarf:
Firstly: As soon as you wash the Cashmere scarf, bring it out in fresh air to dry. Make sure direct sunlight doesn't fall on the place.
Secondly: Lay a clean dry towel flat on the ground. Place the scarf flat on this towel. Cover these with another clean and dry towel
Thirdly: Roll all the three layers together, so that the excess water is soaked by the towels, and the scarf becomes fairly dry.
Fourthly: Remove the two towels and again lay the scarf flat on the ground on a clean towel or any clean fabric.
Fifthly: Always remember not to hang a washed Cashmere scarf. It can lose its shape and become deformed. Also, never leave your scarf in direct sunlight as that may harm the fibre of the scarf.
Lastly: Do not tumble dry Cashmere as that may cause pilling. Always make sure you air dry your scarf. This ensures long life and a beautiful appearance of the same.
How to Store Cashmere?
One of the most neglected, yet crucial steps in caring for your delicate scarf is storing it. The way you store your Cashmere scarf in the present season shows on the scarf in the next season. Here are the steps to follow for a longer life of your precious asset:
Step 1: Find a cool, dry, and moisture free place to store your scarf
Step 2: Wrap the scarf in a muslin cloth and not a plastic bag. Plastic causes moisture and becomes a breeding ground for moths. Muslin keeps the scarf dry.
Step 3: Place your scarf in a separate place. If you suspect moths can still attack the scarf, place moth balls around.
Step 4: If you are the proud owner of a number of these luxury scarves, do not store them in a pile over each other, without any separating layer. This can cause pilling.
What makes a Cashmere scarf shrink?
Irresponsible handling of your precious scarf leads to its shrinking, pilling, tearing, and many other harms. Shrinking is usually caused by heat. Washing your scarf in hot water, or in a washing machine with a hot cycle, tumble drying it, ironing it directly, or using low-quality detergent to wash it are some reasons why your scarf shrinks. However, there are a few easy ways in which you can unshrink your scarf.
Also read: SUSTAINABLE FASHION: KASHMIRI SHAWLS BRINGING THE TRUE MEANING TO PASHMINA
How to Unshrink Cashmere scarf?
To unshrink a shrunken Cashmere scarf, there is a trick that may or may not work with your scarf, depending on the severity of the shrinkage. Fill a tub with lukewarm water, and some hair conditioner. Soak the scarf for just 10 minutes into this concoction. Rinse it properly after the stipulated time, and lay it flat on a towel. Stretch the sides of the scarf gently to their original width or length. Now let it dry naturally in the air.
This trick will help Cashmere retain its original shape and size. But make sure you carry this process out gently, as these scarves are gentle babies, and can sometimes rip if your treatment is harsh.
Now we know that a properly cared for Cashmere scarf retains the signature softness of this miracle material. This way the scarf can last for a lifetime, as much as 30 years!
Also read: PURE PASHMINA - MYTHS AND FACTS