Can I wash a Pashmina?!

GGB

I just discovered a Pashmina in our entry closet that I thought I had given away long ago. I'd like to donate it, but it has some stains on it. I don't really want to spend the $ to dry clean -- has anyone had success with hand washing them? Any tips would be appreciated!

14 years ago

General

6 replies

Latest reply was from Jenava

Ana

(website)

Veteran

Is it made of cashmere?

14 years ago

GGB

Active Member

Yes, 70% and 30% silk.

14 years ago

Ana

(website)

Veteran

I think I had a scarf with a similar fabric content that I spilled coffee or something on. I put it in the washer on the delicate cycle in a lingerie bag, and it came out *okay* although it wasn't the same as it was before. I think it kind of stretched the fibers so it was more transparent, if that makes sense. Really, the best thing would be to dry clean it, but if you're just going to donate it anyway, it might not hurt to wash it and just see how it turns out.

ETA: I washed it on cold.

14 years ago

Lantana

Veteran

Wash it by hand in eucalyptus wool wash or a gentle shampoo like baby shampoo. Titree/teatree oil shampoo would be fantastic - it's Australian - any chance you could locate some? Wash in warm water that is comfy to put your hands in. Don't wring or pull the pashmina in and out of the water, just gently swirl it around and use your fingers to agitate stains out of the fibres. If you squeeze the water out of the pashmina you won't stretch the fibres. Rinse in tepid water, once should be enough. Lay it flat to dry. This will be better than dry cleaning, IMO, and will smell delicious to boot.

14 years ago

GGB

Active Member

Thanks, Ladies -- I will try your tips : )

14 years ago

Jenava

(website)

Veteran

I've washed mine in the gentle cycle with special soap and hung it to dry and it came out fine...but it is 100% cashmere. Not sure what the silk content will do. Worth a try, though!

14 years ago

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