Dry Cleaning Guide: Which Clothes to Dry Clean and Which to Wash at Home

Hi all! 🙂

Coco and Alex, your fearless laundry service owners / experts here. Hope you are having an absolutely wonderful day. Today I wanted to discuss:

How to Care for Cashmere Clothes: The Ultimate Guide

Cashmere is a luxurious, soft, and delicate fabric that requires special attention to keep it looking its best. Whether you own a cashmere sweater, scarf, or blanket, learning how to properly care for your cashmere can help it last for years to come. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cashmere care, from washing to storing, and we’ll also highlight how Life Without Laundry can take care of your dry cleaning needs with our convenient free pickup and delivery service.

1. Understanding Cashmere: What Makes It So Special?

Cashmere comes from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats and is known for its lightweight, warm, and ultra-soft properties. It’s a natural fiber that’s also more delicate than wool, making it prone to pilling and damage if not cared for properly. This is why it’s crucial to follow specific steps when washing and maintaining your cashmere garments.

2. Washing Cashmere: Hand Wash or Dry Clean?

When it comes to washing cashmere, you have two primary options: hand washing or professional dry cleaning. Here’s a look at both:

• Hand Washing: Hand washing is often recommended as it’s gentler on the fibers.

  • Step 1: Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent specifically for delicate fabrics or cashmere.
  • Step 2: Gently submerge the garment, lightly swish it around, and let it soak for about 5 minutes.
  • Step 3: Rinse with cool water until the detergent is completely removed. Avoid wringing or twisting, as this can damage the fibers.
  • Step 4: Lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel, reshape it, and roll the towel to press out excess water. Then, lay it flat to dry, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

• Dry Cleaning: For cashmere garments that are heavily soiled or have specific care instructions on the label, professional dry cleaning is the safest option. At Life Without Laundry, we offer expert dry cleaning services tailored to delicate fabrics like cashmere. Plus, with our free pickup and next-day delivery, you can have your cashmere professionally cleaned without any hassle.

3. Storing Cashmere: Keeping Your Pieces Fresh

Proper storage is key to maintaining the longevity and softness of cashmere. Here’s how to do it:

• Fold, Don’t Hang: Always fold cashmere garments rather than hanging them. Hanging can stretch and distort the shape.
• Use Breathable Storage Bags: If you’re storing your cashmere for an extended period (e.g., during the summer), place the folded items in a breathable storage bag to protect them from dust and moths.
• Lavender Sachets: Adding lavender sachets to your storage can naturally repel moths and keep your cashmere smelling fresh.

4. Removing Pilling: A Quick Fix

Pilling is a common issue with cashmere and occurs when the fibers rub against each other. Fortunately, it’s easy to fix:

• Use a Cashmere Comb: Gently comb the surface of the fabric with a cashmere comb or a fabric shaver. This will remove the pills without harming the material.
• Avoid Friction: Try to minimize friction when wearing cashmere by avoiding rough surfaces or over-layering with abrasive fabrics.

5. Life Without Laundry: Your Cashmere Care Partner

We know cashmere can be tricky to manage, and if you’d rather skip the hassle, Life Without Laundry is here to help! With our professional dry cleaning service, your cashmere garments are treated with the utmost care, ensuring they remain soft and pristine. Best of all, we offer free pickup and next-day delivery, making it easier than ever to keep your cashmere looking its best. Simply schedule a pickup, and we’ll take care of the rest—so you can enjoy more time doing what you love.

6. Tips for Wearing Cashmere

To keep your cashmere garments in top condition, it’s important to follow these wear-and-care tips:

• Rotate Your Pieces: Avoid wearing the same cashmere garment multiple days in a row to allow the fibers time to relax and recover.
• Protect Against Stains: Be mindful when eating or drinking while wearing cashmere, as stains can be difficult to remove. If a spill occurs, blot it gently with a clean cloth and avoid rubbing.
• Layer Smartly: If you’re layering cashmere over other fabrics, choose soft, smooth fabrics underneath to minimize friction and pilling.

7. When to Call in the Professionals

Even with the best at-home care, there are times when professional assistance is needed. If your cashmere is stained, has an odor, or just needs a refresh, Life Without Laundry is ready to help. Our expert cleaners know how to handle delicate fabrics and will ensure your cashmere items are returned to you in the best condition possible—all while you enjoy our free, convenient pickup and delivery service.

Final Thoughts

Caring for cashmere doesn’t have to be daunting. By following these tips, you can keep your garments looking and feeling luxurious for years. And when you need a helping hand, remember that Life Without Laundry offers professional dry cleaning services designed for delicate fabrics, all with the ease of free pickup and next-day delivery.

Start your Life Without Laundry today—so you can enjoy the comfort of cashmere without the worry!