Cashmere storage tips for long-lasting softness
As the new season comes, it’s time to exchange the warmth of winter garments for lighter, more breathable spring and summer attire. When packing away your cashmere pieces, however, extra attention is needed to ensure their softness and longevity are preserved for seasons to come.
When stored properly, cashmere maintains its signature plush texture and vibrant quality for years—decades, even. By following the best storage practices, you can preserve your favorite garments for generations to come.
How to keep your cashmere perfect season after season
There are several operations we need to carry out when storing cashmere garments:
1. Choose the right storage containersYour cashmere pieces deserve more than just a simple drawer. To maintain their rich texture and ensure their preservation, opt for storage containers that shield your garments from light, dust, and moths. Opaque plastic bags work well for this purpose as they protect your cashmere from sunlight, which could otherwise cause fading over time. For a more breathable option, consider zipper storage bags made from cotton canvas, which offer visibility through their transparent windows while allowing air circulation.
No matter what type of container you choose, always ensure that it’s kept in a cool, dark, and dry location—such as your closet or tucked away under your bed. Adding cedar spheres to your storage will help keep moths away, ensuring that your cherished pieces remain safe.
2. Protect your cashmere from moths
Moths are a real threat to the integrity of your cashmere, as they are drawn to natural fibers. To protect your garments, we recommend using cedar wood when storing.
It's essential to never store soiled garments, as odors can attract pests. Always ensure your cashmere is clean before storing it, and if it’s been in storage for some time, give your storage bags a wash before reusing them.
3. Storing cashmere for the summer
Although we often associate cashmere with low temperatures, some lightweight cashmere pieces, such as our Argentina Sweater can be worn in all seasons. For the garments you’ll store until next winter, avoid frequent washing between wears. Cashmere doesn’t require a wash after each wear—only clean it when necessary. For more extended storage, place your garments back in breathable bags to keep them free from dust and moths.
If you're storing your cashmere until the next cold season, it's crucial to use the right techniques. Pack your garments carefully into storage bags or boxes, adding cedar for extra protection.
Don’t neglect to take good care of your favorite pieces to get the most out of your existing wardrobe. For the best care of your cashmere products, explore our guide of how to take care of cashmere. With appropriate care, your cashmere favorites will last a very long time.
How to store cashmere sweaters from moths
To store cashmere sweaters in a way that will protect them from moths, cedar storage solutions are best. This can mean using cedar wardrobes, cedar shelving, or cedar clothes chests. However, other natural moth-deterrents such as sachets filled with herbs like lavender, mint, thyme, and rosemary, can be very useful as well.
Also, be sure to store cashmere sweaters in a way that prevents them from being accessible to pests. For instance, opaque plastic bags or preferably breathable storages can be incredibly useful at keeping clothes moths out.
It will all depend on how long you are storing your cashmere garments. Are you putting things away for a month or until next season? In the short term, airtight storage usually keeps moths away. In the long term, look for more breathable storage solutions like garment bags and canvas covers with added moth deterrents such as cedar balls. Be sure to replace these moth deterrents every few months so that everything stays fresh and safe from pesky moths.
How to store cashmere sweaters for the summer
When considering how to store cashmere sweaters for the summer, keep in mind that your storage techniques have a lot of impact on how long your cashmere garments will last. With proper storage during the summer months, your cashmere can come out looking as good as new when the weather gets cold again.
First, you will want to prepare your cashmere garments for long-term storage. Specialty textiles such as cashmere need extra attention and care when going into storage for more than a couple of months. Get all of your cashmere pieces together in one place and check if they need spot treatment or cleaning, paying close attention to the label on each individual item. Dry everything thoroughly.
Once all of your cashmere garments are clean and dry, fold and put them in plastic bins with cedar spheres.
Common mistakes to avoid when storing cashmere
It’s easy to inadvertently damage cashmere during the storage process. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
Using plastic bags: while opaque plastic containers are acceptable, storing cashmere in plastic bags can trap moisture, leading to mold or mildew. Always opt for breathable storage options.
Over-washing: washing cashmere too frequently can strip the fibers of their natural oils, leaving them rough and brittle. It’s best to wash cashmere only when necessary, and always with the appropriate care.
Crowding your closet: overcrowding causes the fabric to lose shape and may even stretch out your cashmere. Ensure your garments are neatly organized with enough space to breathe.
A timeless approach to cashmere care
Caring for your cashmere is an investment in both its future and your personal style. At Fedeli 1934, we believe that nurturing our garments with the utmost care allows them to retain their beauty and craftsmanship for many years to come. With proper storage techniques, your cashmere will remain as soft and luxurious as the first day you wore it—ready to embrace the next season with elegance and grace.
Caring for your cashmere is an act of respect for its quality, ensuring that each piece remains as refined as the day you first wore it.
Visit our Fedeli News section to stay updated on the world of Fedeli.