How do you care for a cashmere blanket?

How Do You Care for a Cashmere Blanket?

Cashmere blankets are a luxurious addition to any home. Not only are they soft and cozy, but they have a timeless elegance that can make any room feel more inviting. To keep your cashmere blanket looking and feeling like new, it's important to know how to care for it properly. In this article, we'll go over everything you need to know about caring for a cashmere blanket, from cleaning to storage.

Subheading 1: Washing Your Cashmere Blanket

When it comes to washing your cashmere blanket, the most important thing to remember is to be gentle. Cashmere is a delicate fabric that can be easily damaged if not handled properly. Before washing your blanket, check the care label to see if there are any specific instructions. If not, follow these general guidelines:

- Use a mild detergent: Cashmere should be washed with a gentle detergent that is free from harsh chemicals. Look for a wool or cashmere-specific detergent.

- Hand wash or use the gentle cycle: Cashmere should never be washed in a regular washing machine cycle. Instead, you should hand wash it or use the gentle cycle on your washing machine.

- Use cold water: Hot water can damage cashmere fibers, so always use cold water when washing.

- Don't soak: Never leave your cashmere blanket to soak for an extended period of time. This can cause the fibers to become weakened or even fall apart.

- Don't twist or wring: When it's time to rinse your cashmere blanket, don't twist or wring it. This can cause the fibers to become damaged and decrease the blanket's softness.

- Lay flat to dry: Once you've finished washing your cashmere blanket, lay it flat on a clean towel to dry. Don't hang it up or put it in the dryer, as this can stretch the fibers and cause the blanket to lose its shape.

Subheading 2: Spot Cleaning

If your cashmere blanket has a small stain or blemish, you don't necessarily need to wash the entire thing. Instead, you can spot clean the affected area using a mild detergent and cold water. Here's how:

- Dampen the stain with cool water: Don't use hot water, as this can set the stain.

- Apply a small amount of detergent: Use a gentle detergent that is safe for cashmere fibers.

- Gently rub the area with a clean, soft cloth: Don't scrub too hard, as this can damage the fibers.

- Rinse with cool water: Once you've removed the stain, rinse the area with cool water and pat dry with a clean towel.

Subheading 3: Removing Pilling

Over time, cashmere blankets can develop small balls of fuzz on the surface, known as "pilling." This is a normal occurrence and can be easily fixed with the following steps:

- Use a fabric shaver: A fabric shaver is a small tool that is designed to remove fuzz and pilling from clothing and fabrics. Gently run the shaver over the surface of your cashmere blanket, being careful not to apply too much pressure.

- Use a cashmere brush: If you don't have a fabric shaver, you can also use a cashmere brush to remove pilling. Simply brush the surface of the blanket in one direction to remove the fuzz.

Subheading 4: Storing Your Cashmere Blanket

When you're not using your cashmere blanket, it's important to store it properly to protect it from damage. Here are some tips for storing your cashmere blanket:

- Fold it properly: When you're not using your cashmere blanket, fold it neatly and place it in a storage container or on a shelf.

- Use moth repellent: Cashmere is a favorite target of moths, which can cause irreparable damage to your blanket. To protect it from moths, use moth repellent sachets or cedar chips in your storage container.

- Don't store in a damp area: Cashmere can become damaged if it is stored in a damp area. Make sure your storage container is dry and well-ventilated.

Subheading 5: When to Seek Professional Cleaning

If your cashmere blanket is particularly delicate or has a stubborn stain, you may want to consider seeking professional cleaning. A professional cleaner will be able to use specialized techniques and chemicals to ensure that your blanket is fully cleaned and restored without causing any damage to the fibers. When choosing a professional cleaner, make sure to look for someone who specializes in cashmere and other delicate fabrics.

In conclusion, caring for a cashmere blanket requires some extra attention and care, but the results are worth it. By following these tips, you can ensure that your cashmere blanket stays soft, cozy, and beautiful for years to come.