How to Remove Color Runs on a Cashmere Sweater

When you notice runs on your cashmere, the best thing to do is wash it again immediately. If the colors were not fast on the first wash, it’s quite likely that they’ll wash out on the second try. Once the sweater has already dried, give this method a try:

• Wool and Cashmere Shampoo
• Cold water
• Clean tub (large enough to soak the sweater)
• Large, thick bath towel
• Sweater, turned inside out

1. Fill the tub with cold water.
2. Add ¼ cup of the Wool and Cashmere Shampoo. Mix it in lightly.
3. Place the sweater into the tub, gently submerging it.
4. Agitate the sweater by hand, allowing the solution to thoroughly work into the material.
5. Allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes. Soak as long as overnight. It will not harm the fabric.
6. Run room temperature (NOT hot) water into the tub, allowing it to displace the soapy water.  Continue to run water until the soapy water is gone.
7. Remove the sweater from the tub and lay it flat on the towel. Do NOT wring it out.
8. Begin rolling the towel up, pressing lightly as you go. This will remove excess water from the cashmere without crushing or misshaping it.
9. Immediately unroll the sweater. Lay it flat on a dry towel or on a drying rack.
10. Allow it to dry overnight.

• Bleach and OxyClean are frequently successful in removing color runs, but neither product should ever be used on cashmere. Shout makes a product called Color Catchers. These sheets can be added to the soaking water to absorb any loose dyes that are released. They also work well to prevent future runs.
• You may see color in the water as your garment soaks. This is normal, as all dyed yarns release color.
• Never use hot water on cashmere, and never put it in the dryer.
• You can machine wash if you use the delicate cycle, turn the sweater inside out, and keep it inside a garment bag made for delicates. Do NOT allow the sweater to go through a spin cycle; this will crush and misshape it.
• Do not iron cashmere. Use steam only.