Care Guide: Cashmere & Wool

Soft knitwear made to be worn, loved and passed down. With a little extra care, wool and cashmere can stay beautiful season after season.

Summery

• Air garments between wears and wash only when needed.
• Always check the care label before washing and use a detergent designed for wool.
• Wash gently in cool water (max 30°C) and avoid fabric softener.
• Dry flat and avoid tumble drying, direct heat, and hanging garments while wet.
• With proper care, wool and cashmere keep their softness, shape, and quality for longer.

Gentle care for wool and cashmere

Wool and cashmere do not need frequent washing. Their natural fibres help regulate temperature, resist odours and stay fresh for longer than many other fabrics. Airing garments between wears, treating stains quickly and washing only when needed helps preserve softness, shape and durability.

Why gentle care matters

Wool is a natural fibre with temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking properties. That is why wool baby clothes, merino base layers and cashmere jumpers can often be worn several times before washing. Overwashing may shorten the lifespan of the fibres. A gentle care routine helps preserve softness and shape, allowing garments to be enjoyed for longer and passed down from one child to the next.

Start with the care label

Before washing, always check the garment’s care instructions.

Wool, cashmere and wool blends may require different washing methods depending on the fibre content and care instructions. Always follow the guidance provided on the garment’s label.

Can wool and cashmere be machine washed?

Many modern wool garments can be machine washed if the care label allows it.

To help protect the fibres:

• Use a wool or delicate programme.
• Wash in cool water, maximum 30°C.
• Use a detergent specially designed for wool.
• Avoid fabric conditioner.
• Wash similar garments together.

If the care label recommends hand washing, follow those instructions instead.

Which detergent should I use?

Choose a detergent formulated specifically for wool or cashmere. Regular detergents can be too harsh and may strip away the natural properties of the fibres. A suitable detergent helps maintain softness while cleaning effectively.

How to hand wash wool garments

1. Fill a basin with cool water, maximum 30°C.
2. Add a small amount of wool detergent.
3. Gently move the garment through the water.
4. Leave to soak for a few minutes if needed.
5. Rinse carefully with clean water.
6. Press out excess water without wringing. Twisting or stretching wet wool may alter its shape.

How should wool garments be dried?

Lay garments flat on a clean towel and reshape them while damp. Avoid: Hanging garments while wet, tumble drying, direct heat sources, prolonged exposure to strong sunlight

Removing milk and food stains from wool baby clothes

Treat stains as soon as possible.

• Blot excess liquid gently.
• Rinse the area with cool water.
• Apply a small amount of suitable detergent.
• Avoid rubbing aggressively.
• Wash according to the care instructions.

Quick treatment often prevents stains from setting into the fibres.

Why does wool pill?

Pilling is a natural result of friction and does not necessarily indicate poor quality. To remove pills, use a sweater comb or fabric shaver designed for knitwear. Avoid using these on cashmere. Work gently across the surface and do not pull pills off by hand. Proper storage and reduced friction can help minimise future pilling.

Why do wool garments shrink?

Wool can shrink when exposed to excessive heat, agitation or sudden temperature changes. To help prevent shrinkage, follow the care label, wash in cool water, choose a gentle cycle and always dry garments flat. Consistent temperatures throughout washing and drying are kinder to natural fibres and help maintain shape.

How to store wool between seasons

Before storing wool and cashmere garments:

• Make sure items are clean and completely dry.
• Fold knitwear rather than hanging it.
• Store in a cool, dry place.

Air, spot clean or wash?

Knowing how often to wash natural fibres can sometimes be difficult. Not every garment needs a full wash. Thanks to wool’s ability to repel dirt, absorb moisture and resist odours, many garments can simply be aired between wears.

• Air wool garments after regular wear.
• Spot clean small stains as soon as they appear.
• Wash only when needed, following the care instructions.

This gentle approach helps preserve softness, shape and longevity.

Made with care

The wool used in Newbie’s certified pieces is carefully sourced and independently certified according to the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), tracing the material from farm to finished garment. The certification supports responsible animal welfare and land management practices throughout production. Look for the RWS mark on the garment label.