CASHMERE

There's a reason cashmere has been coveted for centuries: nothing else quite compares. Spun from exceptionally fine natural fibres, cashmere is softer, lighter, and warmer than almost any other material — it's not simply something you wear, but something you feel.

At Guest In Residence, we create every piece with the intention for it to become a future heirloom — a garment made to last for years rather than seasons. With a little care, a cashmere sweater can stay beautiful for decades, growing softer, more familiar, more yours.

Understanding Fibre Care

The most important principle of cashmere care is restraint: wash it sparingly, handle it gently, and let the fibres rest. Frequent washing is what wears cashmere down over time, so in most cases, airing a piece out is all it needs.

Cashmere is naturally prone to pilling, particularly in areas of friction like the underarms, cuffs, and where a bag rests against the body. This is part of the fibre's character, not a flaw, and is easily remedied with a cashmere comb.

Everyday Handling

Remove any pilling with a cashmere comb, working gently in one direction. If you use a fabric shaver, let it glide over the surface without pressing down. Be mindful that jewelry, watches and structured bags can snag the fibres, so it's worth taking care when getting dressed. Above all, rotate your knitwear and give each piece a day or two to recover between wears, allowing the fibres to spring back to shape.

Hand Washing

Hand washing in cool water is the gentlest and most reliable method for cashmere. Fill a sink or basin with cool water — around 30°C (86°F) — and add a small amount of a mild wool or cashmere wash. Distribute the soap evenly, then submerge the garment; swirl it gently for a minute, then let it soak for about 10 minutes. Drain the water and refill with clean, cool water. Gently press the water through the fabric to rinse, without wringing or stretching, and repeat until the water runs clear.

Never use bleach, and avoid the washing machine entirely — even a delicate cycle creates enough agitation to cause shrinkage or felting.

Drying the Right Way

Resist the urge to wring or twist out excess water, which can distort the shape. Instead, lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel and roll it up gently to press out moisture. Unroll, then reshape the piece while it's still damp, laying it on a fresh dry towel or a flat drying rack. Keep it away from radiators, direct heat and sunlight, all of which can cause shrinking and fading.

When dry, a steamer is ideal for smoothing any wrinkles and restoring shape — an iron on low works too, but always press through a thin cloth.

Storing Cashmere

Always fold your cashmere rather than hanging it. On a hanger, the weight of the knit pulls the shoulders and body out of shape over time. Cashmere also contains keratin, a protein that moths are drawn to, so protect stored pieces with cedar blocks or a natural repellent like lavender. Avoid plastic storage, which traps moisture — a breathable cotton bag is ideal. Before storing for the season, make sure each piece is clean, since body oils and residue are exactly what attract moths.

The Case for Caring Well

At Guest In Residence, it's our mission to share the comfort and joy of cashmere with people everywhere. We believe in owning fewer, better things, and cashmere rewards that attention more than almost any other material. Cared for well, a Guest In Residence sweater becomes the piece you reach for year after year — a little softer each season, and entirely your own.