When you bought a brand-new cashmere sweater or scarf, you may noticed something—shedding. Yes, cashmere does shed. But don’t worry, it’s a completely normal part of the life cycle of this delicate fiber. In this blog, we’ll explain why shedding happens, how to manage it, and what you can do to reduce it over time.

What Is Cashmere Shedding?

Cashmere shedding refers to the process where small fibers from the surface of a new cashmere garment become loose and fall off. This is particularly common with new cashmere products because the fibers are naturally very fine and soft. When you wear or wash a cashmere item for the first time, these loose fibers will often shed, which can appear as little fuzz or pilling on the surface of the fabric. While it can be frustrating, shedding is temporary, and it typically reduces after the initial wears and washes.

Why Does Cashmere Shed?

The shedding process occurs because cashmere fibers are not uniformly long and smooth. Unlike synthetic fibers, which are more durable and stable, cashmere is a natural fiber that has small short fibers, called "undercoat fibers," that can loosen over time. When cashmere is processed into fabric, not all of these short fibers are tightly secured, leading to shedding.

Several factors contribute to shedding:

1. Fine, Soft Nature of Cashmere: Cashmere fibers are finer and softer than wool, which can result in natural shedding as the fibers loosen.
2. New Garment: Newly purchased cashmere items are more likely to shed because the fibers have not been worn in yet.
3. Low-Quality Cashmere: Lower-quality cashmere often sheds more because the fibers are shorter and less tightly spun.
4. Friction: Wearing your cashmere clothing increases friction, which can cause loose fibers to come free and shed.

How to Manage and Minimize Shedding

While shedding is a natural part of owning cashmere, there are several ways you can manage and minimize it, ensuring that your garment stays looking its best.

1. Pre-Wear Treatment

Before wearing your new cashmere garment, you can gently shake it to remove any excess loose fibers. You can also place the item inside a garment bag and give it a light brushing with a soft, cashmere-specific brush to dislodge any fibers that are ready to fall off.

2. Gentle Washing

Shedding is often more noticeable after washing. To reduce shedding, always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions:

• Hand wash in cold water using a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics like cashmere.
• Avoid wringing or twisting your garment to prevent stressing the fibers.
• Lay flat to dry instead of hanging, as gravity can distort the shape of the garment.

3. Use a Cashmere Comb or Sweater Brush

After wearing your cashmere for a few times, you might notice some fuzz or small fibers on the surface. To remove these, you can use a cashmere comb or a sweater brush. Gently comb or brush the fabric to lift any loose fibers. This will not only reduce shedding but also help keep your cashmere looking smooth and refreshed.

4. Avoid Friction

To reduce further shedding, try to avoid areas where your cashmere garment might experience excessive friction, such as your elbows or the inside of your sleeves. This is where fibers tend to get loosened more quickly.

5. Store Properly

When storing your cashmere garments, keep them in a dry, cool place. Avoid hanging cashmere, as it can stretch and distort the fibers, making them more prone to shedding. Instead, fold your items neatly and store them in a breathable garment bag to keep moths away and preserve the fabric.

6. Quality Matters

Investing in high-quality cashmere can significantly reduce shedding. Premium cashmere is spun with longer fibers and better finishing techniques, meaning less shedding over time. While it may come at a higher price point, high-quality cashmere is also more durable and will last longer, making it a worthwhile investment.

Is Shedding a Sign of Low-Quality Cashmere?

Not necessarily. Some shedding is perfectly normal, even with high-quality cashmere. However, if the shedding persists or seems excessive, it could indicate that the cashmere is of a lower grade or has been poorly processed. Always purchase cashmere from reputable brands or retailers who provide transparency about the sourcing and processing of their fibers. High-quality cashmere will shed less, and its fibers will remain soft and luxurious over time.

When Should You Be Concerned?

While some shedding is expected, there are instances when it may indicate an issue with the garment:

• Excessive Shedding: If your garment continues to shed excessively even after several wears, it may be a sign of low-quality cashmere.
• Pilling from Shedding: If the shedding leads to pilling (small balls of tangled fibers) on your cashmere, this could indicate that the fabric is being damaged by wear or friction. Pilling is usually a result of excessive shedding combined with friction.

Shedding is a natural and temporary process when it comes to cashmere clothing. While it may be noticeable at first, it typically lessens as the garment is worn more often. By following the right care and maintenance steps, you can minimize shedding and ensure your cashmere looks luxurious for many seasons.

Cashmere is an investment in luxury and comfort, and understanding how to care for it properly will help you enjoy its warmth and softness for years to come. So, don’t let a little shedding discourage you—embrace it as part of the cashmere experience and use the tips above to keep your garments in top condition!