Cashmere and Humidity Care

Cashmere is a noble fiber — soft, breathable, and alive in its reaction to climate. Yet, one of its greatest challenges is humidity. Moisture in the air can dull the vibrancy of natural dyes, encourage mildew, and even loosen the structure of fine weaves.

At vonoz, we see cashmere not as a trend, but as a living textile — one that deserves climatic sensitivity. Whether you live in a tropical region or store your shawl seasonally, this guide shows you how to protect cashmere from humidity and maintain its integrity across generations.

Why Is Humidity a Risk for Cashmere?

Cashmere fibers are naturally hygroscopic — they absorb and release moisture from the surrounding air. While this quality contributes to comfort when worn, it can become a problem when the relative humidity exceeds 60%.

Risks include:

  • Mildew or mold in storage
  • Loss of structure or shape in looser weaves
  • Fading or blotching of natural dyes
  • Permanent musty odors that are hard to remove

1. Control the Storage Environment

Always store your cashmere shawl in a cool, dark, and dry place. The ideal humidity level is between 40% and 50%.

If you live in a humid region, consider:

  • A small dehumidifier in the storage area
  • Silica gel packs or clay desiccants inside storage boxes
  • Breathable cotton pouches that don’t trap moisture

Avoid plastic bags — they can seal in moisture and promote mildew growth.

2. Rotate and Air Regularly

Don’t let your shawl sit for months untouched. Every 2–3 months, unfold it, gently air it out, and check for signs of moisture or mold. This is especially important in monsoon or rainy seasons.

For general long-term storage, refer to: Proper Storage of Cashmere.

3. Don’t Store Damp Shawls

After wear or hand washing, allow your cashmere to dry completely before storage. Even a slight dampness can attract fungal growth and permanent odor.

Dry flat, away from sunlight, and never speed up the process with heat — this can shrink or distort the weave.

4. What to Do If You Detect Mildew

If you find a musty smell or visible mildew:

  • Remove the shawl from storage immediately
  • Air it outside in indirect light for several hours
  • Brush gently with a clean, dry fabric brush
  • Place in a freezer overnight to kill spores if necessary

If the issue persists, consult a textile care expert. Do not wash immediately — moisture may spread the damage.

5. Natural Dyes and Humidity

Shawls dyed with natural pigments such as indigo, saffron, or cochineal are more sensitive to environmental fluctuations. Humidity can cause:

  • Uneven color absorption or fading
  • Transfer of pigment when pressed or folded

To preserve color, avoid contact between damp cashmere and other fabrics — especially white or untreated textiles.

vonoz Tip: Use Cedar + Silica

Our preferred combination: a cloth-lined box with cedar sachets (for moths) and silica pouches (for moisture). Replace silica every few months for optimal effect.

Climate and Collection

If you live in a particularly humid climate (e.g., coastal or tropical), we recommend:

Conclusion: Climate-Smart Care

Cashmere, like all natural beauty, responds to its environment. By understanding and managing humidity, you ensure that your shawl retains its softness, color, and structure — not just for a season, but for decades.

Because true luxury breathes with awareness — and thrives in balance.

Want to know more about cashmere? See our Cashmere Knowledge Hub.

Back to blog