How to Clean a Pashmina Scarf

Hand wash your pashmina scarf at home.

Pashmina is a luxury fabric used in scarves, throws and blankets. Harvested from the underbelly of Himalayan goats, this sumptuous wool material has a soft and smooth texture. While pashmina scarf manufacturers recommend dry cleaning methods to clean this delicate fabric, you can hand wash this natural fiber at home using mild detergent, a clean white bath towel and water.

Things You'll Need

• Iron
• Mild detergent
• Baby shampoo
• Large white bath towel
• Water

Instructions

1. Mix 1 tsp. of mild detergent or baby shampoo with cold water in a basin. Swirl the water around until the soap mixes completely with the water.

2. Swish the pashmina scarf in the water for 3 to 5 minutes. If there is a stain, gently rub the spot with another part of the scarf. Soak the scarf for a maximum of 10 minutes. Drain the water.

3. Add cold water to the basin to rinse the scarf. Swirl the scarf in the water for two minutes to remove any soap residue.

4. Pull the scarf out if the water. Squeeze gently. Let the water roll off the scarf into the basin before proceeding to Step 3.

5. Roll the scarf in a white bath towel to absorb excess water. Do not wring or twist the scarf.

6. Lay the fabric flat on a towel to dry. Gently blot any excess moisture. Pull the scarf into its proper shape.

7. To remove wrinkles, use an iron with a low-heat setting and a pressing cloth. Let freshly ironed pashmina scarves cool before folding or putting them away. If the scarf is folded while still warm, it can wrinkle.

Tips & Warnings

• Always test for colorfastness before washing by hand.

• If your pashmina scarf contains more than one color of yarn, dry clean it.

• Avoid perfumes and heavy antiperspirants when wearing a pashmina scarf. The chemicals used in these compounds, such as alcohol or bleaching agents, may ruin the delicate yarn.

References

• The Pashmina Store: Pashmina Care
• Kashmir Arts: Pashmina Care