When to Dry Clean Cashmere

Cashmere is often seen as fragile — but in truth, it is resilient when treated with understanding. At vonoz, we advocate for gentle hand care whenever possible. Yet there are moments when professional dry cleaning becomes not only appropriate, but necessary.

This guide outlines when and why to dry clean cashmere, what to look for in a dry cleaner, and how to protect your shawl before and after cleaning — especially if you own a bespoke vonoz piece made from rare fibers or adorned with Sozni embroidery.

Hand Washing vs. Dry Cleaning

For most of our classic Kashmiri shawls, we recommend careful hand washing with cold water and a mild soap. This preserves the natural oils in the fibers and maintains the loft of the weave.

However, certain shawls benefit from professional dry cleaning. These include:

• Shawls with complex Sozni embroidery
• Kani shawls with tight weaves and colorwork
• Pieces made from rare fibers like Vicuña, Qiviut, or Byssus
• Shawls that are heavily soiled or stained

How Often Should You Dry Clean Cashmere?

Not often. Excessive dry cleaning can strip fibers of their softness and fade natural dyes. Once or twice a season — or even once a year — is enough for shawls that are gently used and well stored.

For tips on storage, see: Proper Storage of Cashmere.

Choosing the Right Dry Cleaner

Not all dry cleaners are equal. Cashmere requires a specialist familiar with natural fibers and artisanal fabrics. Here’s what to look for:

• Experience with handwoven textiles
• Knowledge of natural dyes and their sensitivities
• Use of eco-conscious solvents (not perchloroethylene)
• Willingness to inspect and clean by hand if necessary

Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request that your shawl be hand-finished rather than pressed with industrial machines.

Before You Take It In

Prepare your shawl:

• Point out any stains or delicate areas
• Note the presence of hand embroidery or natural dyes
• Ensure the shawl is not tangled or folded in a way that could cause creasing

After Dry Cleaning

Once your shawl is cleaned:

• Let it air for several hours to remove residual cleaning odor
• Refold or roll it for storage using acid-free tissue
• Inspect for signs of flattening — especially in Sozni motifs

If the shawl feels dry or overly crisp, let it relax for a few days before wearing. The natural oils and softness will return gradually.

vonoz Caution

Never dry clean at budget or high-turnover establishments. vonoz shawls are works of living textile art, and they deserve the same consideration as a hand-painted canvas or antique silk.

Summary: When to Trust the Experts

In most cases, your shawl can thrive with gentle hand care. But when the fibers are rare, the motifs complex, or the stains persistent, entrusting a true specialist is the right decision.

Because luxury isn’t just about owning something valuable — it’s about knowing when to care by hand, and when to care through trust.

Want to know more about cashmere? See our Cashmere Knowledge Hub.