Cashmere blankets are the epitome of luxury and comfort. Known for their softness and warmth, these blankets require specific care to maintain their delicate fibers. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to wash your cashmere blanket properly, ensuring it remains soft and luxurious.
Can You Wash a Cashmere Blanket?
Cashmere is a luxurious and delicate material derived from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats. It is prized for its softness, warmth, and lightweight properties. While cashmere can indeed be washed, it requires special care to maintain its texture and integrity. Here’s what you need to consider:
Key Considerations Before Washing
-
Check the Care Label: Always begin by reading the care instructions on the label of your cashmere blanket. Some cashmere items are labeled dry clean only due to their design, dye, or other factors.
-
Fabric Sensitivity: Cashmere fibers are delicate and can shrink or felt if exposed to heat or rough mechanical action. Therefore, washing cashmere in a machine, even on a gentle cycle, can be risky.
-
Color Retention: Using cold water is essential as hot water can cause the dye in cashmere blankets to run or fade.
-
Material Preservation: Gentle hand washing is recommended to prevent the fibers from becoming matted or damaged.
How to Wash a Cashmere Blanket
Given the delicate nature of cashmere, hand washing is often the safest cleaning method. Here’s a step-by-step guide to effectively and safely wash your cashmere blanket:
Materials Needed
- Mild, wool-safe detergent
- Cold water
- Large basin or clean bathtub
- Soft, absorbent towel
Washing Steps
-
Preparation:
- Spot Cleaning: Address small stains by applying a small amount of cashmere-safe detergent directly to the affected area. Use a soft cloth to gently pat the area — avoid rubbing as it can damage the fabric.
-
Hand Washing:
- Water Preparation: Fill a basin or bathtub with cold water. Add a suitable amount of mild, wool-safe detergent and stir gently to ensure it’s well-dissolved.
- Submerging the Blanket: Lay the blanket in the water and gently press it down to fully immerse it, ensuring it is evenly soaked.
- Soaking: Allow the blanket to soak for up to 30 minutes. This helps the detergent to penetrate the fibers without the need for rubbing or agitating the fabric.
-
Rinsing:
- Careful Rinse: Drain the soapy water and gently rinse the blanket with cold water. Refill your washing area with fresh cold water and submerge the blanket again, gently squeezing the fabric to release detergent. Repeat this process until the water runs clear and all soap is removed.
-
Drying:
- Excess Water Removal: Lift the wet blanket carefully, supporting its weight evenly. Lay it flat on a clean, dry towel and roll both together to gently press out excess water.
- Flat Drying: Unroll and transfer the blanket to a drying rack or another flat surface. Reshape it as needed and let it dry away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid hanging the blanket to dry, as this can stretch the fibers.
As the seasons change, your freshly washed cashmere blanket paired with a Puffy Lux Mattress offers unparalleled comfort. The unique thermal regulation properties of cashmere complement the climate-adaptive features of the mattress.
One million Americans are sleeping better with Puffy. Compare our award-winning mattress collection against other brands to learn why: Puffy vs Purple, Puffy vs Nectar, Puffy vs Casper, Puffy vs Leesa, Puffy vs Saatva, Puffy vs Dreamcloud, and Puffy vs Tuft & Needle.
Additional Care Tips
- Avoid Heat: Never use hot water or a hot dryer as heat can shrink cashmere.
- Storage: Store your cashmere blanket in a breathable cotton bag during off-seasons to protect it from moths and other pests.
- Regular Maintenance: Brush the cashmere blanket gently with a soft-bristled brush to remove any surface dust and maintain its nap.
In my home, our cashmere blanket is a cherished item, especially during the chilly months. After following these care tips, we enjoy its enhanced softness paired with our Puffy Lux Mattress, which together create a sleep environment that is both inviting and luxurious.
Conclusion
Caring for your cashmere blanket with the right washing and maintenance techniques will ensure it continues to provide beauty and comfort. By treating your cashmere gently, you can preserve its luxurious feel and make it a lasting part of your home comfort system.
- Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 certified.
- Hypoallergenic.
- Lifetime warranty.
- 101-night sleep trial.
- Free shipping and returns.