Storing your cashmere knitwear

How Best to Store Your Cashmere Knitwear

Understanding how best to store your cashmere can save you a lot of heartache. As a soft, delicate fibre, cashmere can be prone to stretching, as well as the well known issues with wear and holes. When properly cared for, cashmere knitwear can last for decades, which is exactly why properly restored and cared for secondhand and preloved cashmere can be such a smart and sustainable investment.

We believe that caring for your knitwear is an essential part of slow fashion. Whether you’ve just found the perfect vintage cashmere jumper or you’re storing a well-loved classic during or between seasons, the way you store your cashmere makes all the difference.

Below, we've shared the best ways to store cashmere knitwear, with a special focus on preserving the quality, shape and longevity of your pre-owned cashmere pieces.

Folded cashmere jumpers

Why Proper Cashmere Storage Matters

Cashmere fibres are finer and more delicate than sheep’s wool. While this gives cashmere its signature softness and drape, it also means it needs a bit more thoughtful care – especially when it comes to storage.

Not storing your cashmere properly can lead to:

  • Stretching and misshaping

  • Pilling and fibre stress

  • Moth damage

  • Bleaching from the sun

For secondhand cashmere, correct storage is even more important. These knits often already have a story and some natural wear, so being gentle with them is important.

Washed cashmere on the line

Always Clean Cashmere Before Storing

One of the most common mistakes is storing cashmere without washing it first. Even if your knitwear looks clean, invisible oils from your skin, perfume or food particles can attract moths.

Best practice:

  • Hand wash cashmere or use a delicate wool cycle with cold water

  • Use a mild wool or cashmere-specific detergent

  • Avoid fabric softener, which coats fibres and reduces breathability

For preloved cashmere, washing before storage is essential – it refreshes the fibres and removes anything that could cause long-term damage while the garment is packed away.

Make sure each item is completely dry before storing. Even slight dampness can lead to mildew or fibre weakening.

Fold, Don’t Hang Your Cashmere

Hanging cashmere knitwear is one of the fastest ways to ruin its shape. The weight of the garment pulls on the fibres, leading to stretched shoulders and elongated hems.

Instead:

  • Fold cashmere neatly

  • Store flat in drawers or on shelves

  • Place heavier knits at the bottom of the stack

  • Store in a high traffic area, not at the back of your wardrobe, to deter beasties lurking in quiet areas of your storage

This is particularly important for secondhand cashmere, where fibres may already be softer and more relaxed due to age and wear.

Choose Breathable Storage Solutions

Cashmere needs to breathe. Avoid plastic storage bags or vacuum-sealed containers, which trap moisture and can weaken fibres over time.

Ideal cashmere storage options:

  • Cotton or linen storage bags

  • Breathable garment boxes

  • Drawer storage with natural liners

For long-term storage, especially during warmer months, breathable materials help protect pre-owned cashmere from odours, humidity and from looking tired.

Protect Cashmere Naturally from Moths

Moths are one of the biggest threats to cashmere, particularly when garments are stored for extended periods.

Skip the harsh chemicals and opt for natural moth deterrents, which are gentler on delicate fibres and better for the environment.

Natural moth repellents include:

  • Cedar blocks or cedar rings

  • Lavender sachets

  • Bay leaves or rosemary

Place repellents near – but not directly on – your knitwear, and refresh them regularly. This is especially important when storing secondhand cashmere, as moths are drawn to natural fibres with lingering scents.

Store Cashmere Away from Heat and Light

Heat and direct sunlight can dry out and weaken cashmere fibres, causing fading/bleaching and brittleness over time.

For best results:

  • Store cashmere in a cool, low light place

  • Avoid lofts, radiators and sunny shelves

Consistent conditions are key for preserving preloved cashmere knitwear, ensuring it stays soft and wearable year after year.

Air your Cashmere Out

Even in storage, cashmere benefits from the occasional airing. If you’re storing your cashmere long-term, take them out once or twice a year if you can:

  • Refold to prevent permanent creases

  • Air in a shaded, well-ventilated space

  • Check for early signs of moth activity

This small habit can be really helpful if you want to extend the life of secondhand cashmere knitwear.

Caring for your Cashmere Is BIG Part of Sustainable Fashion

Choosing secondhand and preloved cashmere is already a conscious, sustainable decision. By storing your cashmere correctly, you reduce the need for replacements, minimise waste and honour the craftsmanship and hard work that goes into every piece.

Well-cared-for cashmere doesn’t just last longer – it often becomes softer and more beautiful with time. With the right storage, your pre-owned cashmere knitwear can be enjoyed for decades and even passed on again.

We believe the most sustainable garment is the one you already own. Thoughtful care makes sure that every cashmere piece lives a long, luxurious life.

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Written by Second Cashmere

This piece was written by our team at Second Cashmere. We curate considered collections of secondhand and recycled cashmere. We source our cashmere from textile recyclers, working mostly with post-consumer waste to create collections that divert textiles destined for landfill back into our homes.