Caring for Brushed Cashmere: Preserve the Luxury, Extend the Life

Brushed cashmere and its close cousin, brushed‑finish “fur” knitwear has seen a remarkable rise in popularity in recent seasons. Designers and consumers alike are drawn to its cloud‑soft texture, gentle warmth, and beautifully elevated appearance. As this style of knit becomes more sought‑after, understanding how to care for it properly is essential. Brushed cashmere is luxurious, but it is also delicate; the very fibres that create its signature softness require thoughtful handling to ensure your garments remain beautiful for years.

This guide offers a clear, British‑toned, professional overview of how to look after brushed cashmere with confidence and ease.

Why Brushed Cashmere Needs Special Care

Brushed cashmere is created by gently raising the surface fibres of the knit, producing a soft, airy, almost fur‑like halo. This finish enhances warmth and comfort, but it also makes the fabric more vulnerable to friction, stretching, and improper washing.

Key characteristics to keep in mind:

• Raised fibres = increased softness, but also increased sensitivity

• More prone to pilling due to the lifted surface

• More absorbent, meaning it reacts strongly to heat, agitation, and chemicals

• Shape retention requires careful drying and storage

Understanding these traits is the first step to caring for your garments properly.

Washing Brushed Cashmere: Gentle Is Everything

Hand Wash in Cold Water

The safest and most effective method is a cold‑water hand wash. Use a mild wool‑safe detergent and avoid any product containing enzymes or bleaching agents.

How to wash:

• Fill a basin with cold water

• Add a small amount of wool detergent

• Submerge the garment and gently press the water through the fibres

• Avoid rubbing, twisting, or scrubbing—the brushed surface can distort easily

• Soak for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly in cold water

Dry Cleaning: Acceptable, but Not Ideal

Dry cleaning is fine occasionally, especially for structured pieces or when the garment is heavily soiled. However, frequent dry cleaning is not recommended, as the chemicals can gradually weaken the delicate brushed fibres.

If possible, reserve dry cleaning for special cases and rely on gentle hand washing for routine care.

Drying: The Step That Matters Most

Brushed cashmere must never be wrung, hung, or tumble‑dried.

Correct drying method:

• Lay the garment flat on a clean towel

• Reshape it carefully to its original measurements

• Allow it to dry naturally, away from direct heat or sunlight

• Turn it over halfway through to ensure even drying

This prevents stretching, distortion, and fibre damage.

Maintaining the Brushed Finish

The brushed surface is what makes these garments so desirable, so preserving that texture is key.

Avoid Excessive Friction

Friction is the enemy of brushed cashmere. It can cause matting, flattening, and pilling.

To minimise wear:

• Avoid wearing the garment under heavy coats with rough linings

• Limit use of shoulder bags that rub against the knit

• Rotate your knitwear to give fibres time to recover

Use a Soft Cashmere Brush

A gentle cashmere brush can help lift the fibres back into place. Brush lightly in one direction only, and avoid over‑brushing.

Remove Pills Carefully

Pilling is natural, especially with brushed finishes. Use a cashmere comb or fabric shaver on the lowest setting, working slowly and gently.

Storing Brushed Cashmere Properly

Fold, Don’t Hang

Hanging will stretch the garment and distort the brushed surface. Always fold and store flat.

Keep It Clean Before Storing

Moths are attracted to body oils and food particles. Wash or air out your garment before long‑term storage.

Use Breathable Storage Bags

Cotton or linen bags are ideal. Avoid plastic, which traps moisture and can cause mildew.

Add Natural Moth Repellents

Cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or herbal moth bags help protect your knitwear without harsh chemicals.

Why Proper Care Matters More Than Ever

With brushed cashmere and brushed‑fur knitwear becoming increasingly popular, many people are discovering these textures for the first time. While the look and feel are undeniably luxurious, the care requirements are often misunderstood. A well‑cared‑for brushed cashmere piece can last for many years, retaining its softness, shape, and beauty. Poor care, however, can lead to flattening, felting, or irreversible stretching.

By understanding how to wash, dry, store, and maintain these garments, you not only protect your investment but also ensure that each piece continues to deliver the comfort and elegance that brushed cashmere is known for.

Brushed cashmere is one of the most indulgent fabrics in modern knitwear—light, warm, and irresistibly soft. With the right care, it remains a timeless luxury that only becomes more beautiful with age. Treat it gently, store it thoughtfully, and enjoy the lasting pleasure of a garment that truly stands apart.