Machine Washing Cashmere: When It’s Safe

Cashmere is synonymous with delicacy — but does that mean it must always be hand-washed? Surprisingly, the answer is: not always. Under the right conditions, machine washing can be safe — but only if you understand the fiber and your equipment.

Here’s a connoisseur’s guide to when machine washing is appropriate for cashmere — and when it’s a risk not worth taking.

Is It Ever Safe to Machine Wash Cashmere?

The short answer: Yes, but only under strict conditions. Machine washing is typically only safe for:

  • Low-value, mass-produced cashmere blends
  • Well-constructed knits with a high ply count (2-ply or more)
  • Non-embroidered pieces without fringe or tassels

Delicate Sozni shawls or handwoven Kani pieces should never be machine washed — even on the gentlest cycle.

Risks of Machine Washing Cashmere

Before we look at safe methods, consider what can go wrong:

  • Felting: Cashmere can shrink or become matted when agitated
  • Pilling: The drum movement can cause surface abrasion
  • Fiber breakage: Especially if exposed to spinning or harsh detergents
  • Color fading: If natural dyes are used (see our dyeing guide)

These risks increase significantly for handspun or artisan-dyed pieces — which is why we recommend handwashing for all heritage shawls and bespoke items.

When You Can Machine Wash Cashmere

If your garment is made from high-quality, well-set cashmere and has a tight knit or weave, you can consider machine washing — but only if you meet the following conditions:

1. Your Machine Has a Genuine Wool or Hand Wash Program

This setting minimizes movement, uses cool water (max. 30°C / 85°F), and limits spin speed.

2. You Use a Mesh Washing Bag

A breathable mesh bag prevents the fabric from being pulled or stretched during cycles.

3. You Choose a Gentle, Enzyme-Free Detergent

Look for pH-neutral formulas labeled as wool or cashmere safe — such as those from The Laundress or Eucalan.

4. You Turn the Garment Inside Out

This reduces surface abrasion and helps preserve the exterior finish.

5. You Skip the Spin Cycle

Do not let the machine spin the garment. Instead, press out water gently by hand and lay flat to dry.

Step-by-Step: Safe Machine Washing

  1. Turn garment inside out
  2. Place in mesh laundry bag
  3. Select wool/delicate cycle at 20–30°C
  4. Add cashmere-safe detergent
  5. Skip spin cycle or set to < 400 rpm
  6. After wash, press out moisture with towel
  7. Lay flat to dry away from sunlight or heat

When You Should Never Machine Wash Cashmere

These categories are machine-wash unsafe under all conditions:

  • Handspun yarns — prone to felting
  • Embroidered cashmere — stitches may distort
  • Shawls with fringe or open weaves
  • Natural-dyed pieces with saffron, indigo, or cochineal
  • Bespoke or heirloom shawls — irreplaceable value

For these, use our handwashing guide.

Alternative: Professional Wool Dry Cleaning

If you’re unsure, many reputable dry cleaners offer eco-friendly, wool-safe processes. Look for those using CO2 or hydrocarbon-based solvents, and avoid perchloroethylene, which is harsh on delicate fibers.

Conclusion: Know Your Piece, Know the Risks

Machine washing cashmere is a calculated decision — not a default option. If you’ve invested in luxury-grade cashmere, take time to understand the fabric before entrusting it to a machine.

When in doubt, always handwash or consult an expert. As with all slow luxury, care is part of the beauty.

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

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