Cashmere is considered the highest class of all natural fibers. It’s softer, warmer and lighter than all of the natural fibers. It is mainly used for dress, coats and suit fabrics, as well as for high-quality hosiery and knitwear. It’s also used for ropes, blankets, grain bags and even tent curtains.

Because of the quality of the cashmere, it’s also quite expensive so it’s definitely a good idea to know how to take care of your cashmere.

Hand-washing is generally acknowledged to be the gentlest method of cleaning cashmere. Sweaters and other cashmere garments should be washed after about 6-7 wearings to keep them looking their best. Cashmere has a tendency to become softer with each washing, which will add years to the life of your precious cashmere garment.

The first step in washing is to wash the garment in warm water and a mild soap. Even shampoo will do. Thoroughly rinse the cashmere in water of the same temperature. It’s especially important to remember never to wring or twist the cashmere, as doing this will stretch the cashmere out of shape. Simply press the excess water from the garment.

After washing, lay the sweater on a dry towel while supporting the weight of the wet garment. Slowly ease the sweater back into shape and roll it up in the towel. Press again to remove excess water and do this second with a second towel. On a flat surface, lay the cashmere fabric on a fresh dry towel until it is thoroughly dried by the air. Once the cashmere is dry, just fold it carefully and avoid a crease in the center. Don’t hang the cashmere, even if you’re using wooden hangers. Just lay it flat in a drawer or on a closet shelf. You can also fold your cashmere or knitwear with tissue and store it flat in a drawer.

Dry cleaning is also all right for cashmere. In fact, this may be the only solution in case your cashmere gets hold of stubborn stains. If you plan to machine wash your cashmere, secure it first in a tied pillowcase and set on gentle cycle.

Storing your cashmere is also relatively easy. It is best to store your cashmere and other fine woolens in either a cedar chest or in plastic bags to keep them free from pesky moths. Contrary to popular belief, moths are not attracted to the cashmere sweater itself; they are attracted to stained or soiled garments. They go for any food particles that may be on the garment, so it is absolutely essential to keep your garments clean.

Some sweaters will undergo pilling, or the little balls that get on the sweaters. It’s a natural occurrence for cashmere sweaters, wool and other natural fibers. Still, a quality sweater should not pill excessively. Pilling is usually caused by a friction such as purse strings, golf straps, seat belts, etc. Not all sweaters pill, however, but when pilling does occur, simply pull or careful cut the pills off to break the connection. You may also wash the garment to keep them even cleaner and safer.

A Few Facts about Merino Wool

Merino wool is all you would want from a fabric that is on the cutting edge. There are so many choices when it comes to fabric for clothing, but the tried and true best is merino wool. It breathes when you need it to and it allows the wearer to move smoothly and comfortably. It can also add natural beauty and comfort to your home in a number of ways.

Is Merino Wool A Fabric for People with Allergies?

Many people have allergies to lots of different fabrics that are synthetic, which means they are man-made. It is impossible for anyone to be allergic to merino wool. You could liken the chances to being allergic to merino wool to being allergic to the hair on your head. If you have irritation concerns, then look for clothing that has the Pure Merino Wool label. Avoid woolen fabrics that appear hairy if you are worrying about being itchy.

Is Wool Blended with Other Fibers?

You will often find other fibers blended with merino wool such as rayon or nylon. The reason for this is typically for a decorative effect. Even when wool is blended, it does not lose any of the characteristics that make merino wool such a superior fiber. When you are shopping for clothing, be sure to read the label to be sure that your garment choice is blended with quality merino wool.

Difference between Worsted and Woolen Merino Wool

The difference between fabric that is worsted or woolen is in the length of the fibers. Shorter fibers are used to make products that are labeled woolens. Woolens are typically made with fibers that stand up and give the item a hairy feel. Products of merino wool that are worsted are made with fibers that are longer. Worsted merino wool products are smooth and silky to the touch and are the most comfortable to wear next to your skin.

Wearing Wool almost All Year Round

The beauty of merino wool apparel is that it can be worn almost all year round. The only time you would not want to wear merino wool is when it is sweltering outside and for most people that is in the heat of July and August. When the weather is warm, there are plenty of lightweight merino wool clothes that will keep you cooler than you ever thought possible.

In the cooler months, your merino wool clothing will keep you cool during the day when the sun is warm, and it will keep you equally warm when the sun goes down and there is a nip in the air.

When you choose merino wool apparel, you are choosing wool that is made from some of the finest grades and is from a Merino sheep. Merino wool has long been treasured as blankets for babies and adults alike, as well as winter apparel, sport clothing, and athletic wear to name just a few of the products that are made with luxurious merino wool.

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