Restoring a cashmere sweater, especially one that may have shrunk or lost its shape, often involves carefully relaxing the fibers and gently reshaping the garment.
The Soaking Method to Relax Fibers
A key step in restoring cashmere, particularly if it has shrunk, is to use a gentle soaking method to relax the fibers.
Steps:
- Prepare the Bath: Firstly, fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can damage delicate cashmere fibers.
- Add Conditioner: Add a few tablespoons of hair conditioner or baby shampoo to it. These products help to lubricate and relax the wool fibers.
- Soak the Sweater: Soak the shrunken cashmere garment in the solution for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the fibers to absorb the moisture and become more pliable. This soaking step helps to relax the fibers, making them easier to manipulate gently back into shape.
After Soaking: Reshaping and Drying
Once the soaking is complete and the fibers are relaxed, the next steps involve careful handling to restore the sweater's shape.
- Gentle Squeeze: Do not wring or twist the sweater. Gently squeeze out excess water while supporting the garment's weight.
- Remove from Bath: Carefully lift the sweater from the basin, continuing to support its weight to prevent stretching.
- Blot: Lay the sweater flat on a clean, thick towel. Roll the towel and the sweater together to absorb more water. You may need to repeat this with a second dry towel.
- Reshape and Dry: Lay the sweater flat on a drying rack or a fresh, dry towel away from direct heat or sunlight. Gently reshape the sweater to its original size and form. Pay attention to the length of the body and sleeves. Do not hang the sweater, as this will cause it to stretch and lose shape while drying.
By following these steps, particularly the initial soaking to relax the fibers, you can effectively work towards restoring your cashmere sweater.
