Give your favourite cashmere pieces a fresh start for the new season.

As the temperatures begin to cool and knitwear returns to our daily wardrobes, it's the perfect time to bring your cashmere out of summer storage. Whether you've invested in a timeless secondhand cashmere jumper or a vintage designer cardigan, a little care before wearing will help restore softness, freshness and longevity.

At Second Cashmere, we really do believe that beautifully made knitwear deserves to be worn for years, not seasons. Here's our simple guide to refreshing your cashmere after summer storage and getting it tip-top for autumn and winter.

Why Cashmere Needs Attention After Storage

Even when stored correctly, cashmere can lose some of its natural loft and freshness over several months. Fibres may become compressed, absorb slight odours from storage environments, or collect a small amount of dust.

Fortunately, cashmere is remarkably resilient. With a few gentle steps, your knitwear can quickly regain its beautiful softness and shape.

Step 1: Inspect Your Cashmere Carefully

Before wearing your cashmere, take a moment to check over each piece.

Look for:

• Signs of moth damage

• Small holes or loose threads

• Areas that may need de-pilling

• Stains that were missed before storage

Catching issues early can stop further damage and extend the life of your cashmere. If you've found moth holes, immediately put all of your cashmere into the freezer for a minimum of 2 days to make sure all potential moth eggs are dead. Then wash everything.

Pro Tip

Natural fibres like cashmere are far easier to repair when small issues are addressed quickly. If your cashmere needs some mending, take a look at our Reclaimed Cashmere Mending Yarns, Mending Kit or find out more about our Cashmere Repair Service.

Step 2: Air Your Cashmere Out Naturally

One of the simplest ways to refresh cashmere is to let it breathe.

Lay your knitwear flat on a clean towel or drying rack in a well-ventilated room for several hours. Fresh air helps release any stale odours accumulated during storage and allows the fibres to relax naturally.

Pro Tip

Avoid hanging cashmere for long periods, as this can stretch the garment and distort its shape.

Step 3: Steam Instead of Ironing

Cashmere responds beautifully to steam.

Using a handheld steamer or the steam function on an iron (without direct contact), gently steam your knitwear to:

• Remove creases

• Restore softness

• Revive the natural drape of the fibres

• Freshen the fabric without washing

Hold the steamer a few centimetres away from the fabric and work slowly across the piece. Steaming is often all that's needed to make stored cashmere look and feel like new again.

Step 4: Remove Any Pilling

Pilling is completely normal, especially in high-friction areas such as underarms and cuffs.

Use a cashmere comb or fabric shaver designed specifically for delicate knitwear. Gently remove pills using light strokes, taking care not to pull the fibres.

Regular de-pilling helps maintain a smooth appearance and can make older cashmere look significantly newer.

Step 5: Wash Only If Necessary

Many people assume cashmere needs frequent washing, but that's rarely the case.

If your garment smells fresh and looks clean, airing and steaming may be enough. However, if it has been stored for an extended period or has picked up odours, a gentle wash can help restore softness.

How to Hand Wash Cashmere

1. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water.

2. Add a specialist wool or cashmere detergent.

3. Gently immerse the garment and swish lightly.

4. Rinse thoroughly.

5. Press out excess water without wringing.

6. Lay flat on a towel to dry naturally.

Alternatively, you can also pop your cashmere in the washing machine (if you trust your machine), on a wool wash 20C or below, no spin.

Never tumble-dry or wash your cashmere on a high heat, it will shrink!

Step 6: Restore Shape While Drying

If you do go ahead with washing, reshape your cashmere while it's still damp.

Pay attention to:

• Sleeves

• Necklines

• Hems

• Shoulder seams

This simple step helps maintain your cashmere's original fit and prevents stretching.

Preventing Future Storage Issues

Once the season ends, proper storage will make refreshing your cashmere much easier next year.

For long-term storage:

• Always clean cashmere before storing

• Fold rather than hang garments

• Store in breathable cotton bags

• Use natural moth deterrents such as cedarwood or lavender

• Keep garments in a cool, dry place

Proper storage protects the fibres and helps preserve the quality of both new and secondhand cashmere.

Why Secondhand Cashmere Deserves Extra Care

High-quality cashmere is one of the most sustainable additions to any wardrobe. Choosing secondhand cashmere reduces textile waste while giving exceptional knitwear a second life.

With the right care, a well-made cashmere jumper can remain soft, elegant and wearable for decades. We're passionate about helping you build a more sustainable wardrobe without compromising on luxury. A few minutes of seasonal care makes sure your favourite cashmere knits stay looking their best year after year.