Proper Storage of Cashmere

A handwoven cashmere shawl is more than an accessory — it is a legacy in cloth. And like all heirlooms, it requires thoughtful care, not just when worn, but especially when stored. At vonoz, we consider proper storage part of the craft itself — the final gesture in a cycle of preservation.

Whether you own a classic Kashmiri shawl or a bespoke piece woven with rare fibers, here’s how to store your cashmere correctly so it remains soft, safe, and timeless.

Why Storage Matters

Cashmere is a protein fiber, much like human hair. It’s sensitive to light, moisture, and pests, all of which can degrade its structure and texture over time. Poor storage can lead to:

• Fading and discoloration
• Moth damage
• Permanent creasing or distortion
• Loss of natural softness

1. Always Store Cashmere Clean

Before storing your shawl, make sure it is clean and fully dry. Even invisible residues (like skin oils or perfume) can attract moths. If you've recently worn the shawl, let it air out for 24 hours before folding.

For washing tips, see our full guide: How to Wash a Cashmere Shawl.

2. Use Breathable Storage Bags

Avoid plastic. Instead, use cotton muslin bags or linen wraps that allow the cashmere to breathe while protecting it from dust. At vonoz, we ship every shawl in archival-quality packaging — ideal for short- or long-term storage.

3. Fold, Don’t Hang

Hanging cashmere for extended periods — even on padded hangers — can cause stretching or distortion. Always fold your shawl gently along natural seams or edges.

Store flat, preferably in a drawer or fabric-lined box. Avoid tightly packed spaces that compress the fibers.

4. Protect Against Moths

Moths are drawn to cashmere, especially if it contains traces of food, sweat, or moisture. Use natural repellents like:

• Cedar blocks or chips (refresh every 6–12 months)
• Lavender sachets
• Cloves or dried rosemary

Avoid chemical mothballs — their odor is difficult to remove and can harm the fiber over time.

5. Keep Out of Direct Sunlight

Store your shawl in a cool, dry, and dark place. Sunlight fades natural dyes and weakens cashmere fibers. Avoid window-facing wardrobes or clear plastic containers.

6. Refresh Periodically

Even when stored, cashmere benefits from being aired occasionally. Remove the shawl from storage every 2–3 months to let it breathe, check for pests, and smooth out any creases.

7. Traveling with Cashmere?

Use a dedicated cloth travel pouch. Fold gently and avoid compression under heavy luggage. Once at your destination, unfold and hang the shawl for a few hours to relax the fibers.

vonoz Storage Tip

For collectors with multiple shawls, store each piece in individual cloth envelopes. Label them by year or occasion to create a quiet archive of moments woven in time.

Conclusion: Protecting the Story

Every vonoz shawl is a story — told in dye, fiber, and hand. Proper storage ensures that this story does not fade, fray, or go silent. It is a way to respect not only the garment, but the generations of artisans behind it.

Because true luxury lives not only in how something is made — but in how it is kept.

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