What is cashmere?
Cashmere — is a rare natural fiber obtained from the soft undercoat (down) of cashmere goats (Capra hircus), which live in regions with a harsh continental climate.
When defining cashmere and what kind of fabric it is, it's important to note that it's a textile or knitted material woven from the finest goat down. It's lightweight and highly heat-retaining. The material's historical name comes from the Kashmir region on the border of India and Pakistan. Today, the main suppliers of the material are Mongolia, China, and Tibet.
The down is collected exclusively by hand, using special combs during the animals' spring molt, rather than by shearing. A single goat yields only 150–200 grams of pure down per year. This low yield accounts for the high cost of genuine cashmere, as it takes three to five animals to make a basic sweater.
Distinctive features
Cashmere down is 14 to 19 microns thick, compared to 50 to 70 microns for human hair. This makes the material exceptionally soft and non-itchy against the skin.
Thanks to its hollow fiber structure, cashmere retains warmth eight times better than standard sheep's wool without adding bulk. The fabric adapts to body temperature, providing comfort in cold and cool weather without creating a "greenhouse" effect.
Natural cashmere does not have a pronounced sheen; its surface is slightly dull and has a light pile. The formation of small pilling (pills) in areas of friction is a natural property of the fine natural fiber and not a sign of low-quality yarn.
How to care
Cashmere items are recommended to be hand washed in cool water at a temperature no higher than 30°C. For cleaning, use special liquid detergents for delicate fabrics or baby shampoo. Never rub, twist, or spin the fabric.
Remove excess moisture by gently patting the item with a terry towel. Dry cashmere only horizontally on a flat surface, away from direct sunlight and heating devices, to avoid deformation.
Cashmere knitwear is stored folded on shelves, as hangers stretch the shoulders. Natural moth repellents, such as cedar or lavender sachets, are used to protect against moths. To maintain the smoothness of the fabric and remove pilling, use a special cashmere comb or a machine to gently brush the surface.
