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What to Wash (or Not) by Hand

A guide to cleaning those sensitive fabrics in your closet

What to Wash (or Not) by Hand
Peter Lamastro
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Cashmere Knits

Hand-Washing Tips
  • Pieces labeled dry clean only should probably not be hand washed, but those labeled simply dry clean give you the green light to (carefully) clean them yourself.
  • Avoid rubbing cashmere when washing, since it pills easily.
  • Never use chlorine bleach — it can damage fibers and yellow white wool.


  • Can You Machine Wash?
    The experts generally agree that it’s not a good idea, but many people do it successfully. If you do, use fine-washables detergent and place each garment in a separate mesh bag.

    Drying Tips
  • Block sweaters before drying, as they can lose their shape when wet.
  • Lay garments flat on a mesh rack to dry.


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