How to Care for Pashmina & Silk Shawls
Pashmina and silk shawls are popular fashion statements. On the streets of New York, vendors are selling the large scarves for about $5. Check with online stores, and you're likely to see prices over $200 for true cashmere pashmina or silk shawls. What's the difference? Fiber content. True cashmere is made of very fine goat's wool. Most of the scarves sold on the street and at discount stores are made of polyester, or microfiber, which is another word for polyester. There are simple ways to care for your pashminas and silk shawls. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Gentle or baby laundry detergent
- Basin or sink
- Towels
- Large counter
- Crochet hook
Instructions
-
-
1
Keep your cashmere or silk shawls out of direct sunlight for long periods of time to prevent the colors from fading. When not in use, fold the shawls gently without creasing them, and store in a closet or drawer. You may also hang your shawl on a padded hanger.
-
2
Check your shawl's label to determine the actual fiber content and care instructions. Many will suggest dry cleaning, even if your shawl is made of polyester.
-
-
3
Use caution if you want to hand wash your shawl. Find a gentle detergent, such as one used for baby's clothing. Put the detergent in a basin of water, and make sure it has diluted before you place your shawl in the mixture.
-
4
Wash a silk or cashmere item separately in cool water, and keep it submerged for only a moment. Pat the water out the item very carefully, never twisting or wringing it.
-
5
Place a heavy towel on a flat surface, and then lay out your wet shawl. Smooth out the wrinkles, and place another towel on top for a few minutes to pat out additional water. Remove the top towel, and let the shawl air dry. After a day, turn it over, and remove the bottom towel to dry the other side.
-
6
Use a very cool, dry iron if you need to iron your shawl. If you snag your shawl, use a tiny crochet hook to weave the fiber back into the shawl.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Always check the care label of your fine garments, scarves and shawls. Many will show a combination of fibers, such as cashmere and silk or cashmere and rayon.
Never spray perfume directly on your silk scarf or shawl, as it may leave water spots.
Never cut a thread that has come loose because of a snag in your scarf.
