How to Care for a Cashmere Blend Cardigan
By Nouvelle collection - Hiver 26 – Bonton Paris | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to wash, dry, and store a cashmere blend cardigan to keep it soft and pill-free. Simple steps for lasting kids knitwear.
Quick answer
Hand wash your cashmere blend cardigan in cool water with a gentle wool detergent, lay it flat to dry, and store it folded to prevent stretching and pilling.
Why care matters for kids knitwear
Cashmere blend cardigans combine softness with durability, but they still need a gentler routine than cotton or synthetics. The blend fibers can stretch, pill, or felt if washed too hot or scrubbed vigorously. Kids’ cardigans see more wear and spills, so a consistent care habit keeps them looking neat through the season.
Step-by-step care routine
- Check the label first: Look for the care tag inside the cardigan. It will tell you the exact fiber percentages and any dry-clean-only symbols. If it says dry clean only, skip the steps below and take it to a professional. Never ignore a dry-clean-only label – water can ruin some blends.
- Hand wash in cool water: Fill a basin with cool water (never hot) and add a capful of wool or cashmere shampoo. Submerge the cardigan and gently squeeze the soapy water through the fabric. Do not rub, wring, or twist – that causes felting and pilling. Hot water shrinks cashmere blends. Keep the water temperature below 30°C (86°F).
- Rinse gently and remove excess water: Drain the soapy water and refill with fresh cool water. Swish the cardigan gently until no suds remain. Press the cardigan against the side of the basin to push out water, then roll it in a clean, dry towel and press firmly to absorb moisture. Never wring or twist – the wet fibers are fragile and will stretch permanently.
- Lay flat to dry: Place the cardigan on a dry towel or a mesh drying rack, reshaping it to its original measurements. Keep it away from direct sunlight, radiators, and heaters. Let it air dry completely, which can take 24–48 hours depending on humidity. Hanging a wet cashmere cardigan will stretch the shoulders and hem out of shape.
- Store folded, not hung: Once fully dry, fold the cardigan and store it on a shelf or in a drawer. Use a breathable cotton bag if you need to protect it from dust. Avoid hanging, which can cause shoulder bumps and permanent stretching. If you must hang it, use a padded hanger and fold the cardigan over the bar, not through the arms.
Cardigans from this guide
- Cardigan - Pimpon Kaki Laine: Laine douce et confortable. This wool cardigan benefits from the same gentle washing steps to keep the knit soft and the pointed collar crisp.
Cardigan - Pimpon Kaki Laine
