Lets address one of the most persistent misconceptions about cashmere: the belief that quality cashmere shouldn't pill. This simply isn't true, and understanding why can actually help you better care for your investment pieces.

Why All Cashmere Pills

Pilling is a natural process caused when the fibres in the yarn rub against each other and form small balls. Even the finest Grade A cashmere will pill because the cashmere fabric is woven or knitted from spun yarn comprising a mixture of longer and shorter fibres. During its spinning, knitting or wear, some will break off and work loose. The key difference is that long, fine fibres, like those in Grade A cashmere, are less prone to pilling and provide a smoother, softer texture. Shorter fibres may feel soft initially, but they tend to pill faster.

What Causes Pilling

What actually causes pilling is simple: friction between fibres. This friction occurs during wear, washing, and even storage. Areas that experience the most movement—underarms, sleeves, and anywhere the garment rubs against itself or other surfaces—are most prone to pilling.

Pilling as a Sign of Quality

Contrary to popular belief, cashmere products with some pilling is normal in high quality cashmere. The pilling tells you if cashmere is real or not. Synthetic fabrics that never pill lack the natural fibre structure that gives cashmere its remarkable properties.

This has also been the case for high quality wool fibres for years as well, and yet we seem to have accepted this natural process in those yarns.

Managing Pilling: Care and Maintenance

Understanding that pilling is normal doesn't mean you can't manage it effectively:

The best way to prevent cashmere piling is by washing it frequently in your early days of ownership. When cashmere is wet and washed it detangles, settles and returns the fibres smoothly to the surface of the garment. This might seem counterintuitive, but gentle, regular washing actually helps maintain the fibre structure.

When pills do appear, remove them gently using a cashmere comb or by hand. Never attempt to pick the pills off with your fingers. You'll cause irreparable damage to the knit, and you'll wear the garment out much quicker than would otherwise be the case.

Cashmere piled on cashmere, or many other fabrics for that matter, can cause those troublesome little tangles, so is best avoided. Store pieces with tissue paper between them to minimise friction.

And of course, we need not mention cross body bags, jewellery or wearing your treasured piece under a jacket or coat for prolonged periods of movement.

And lastly, don't overwear your cashmere. You love it, the feel against your skin, its warmth. But cashmere is a luxury product and should be treated as such. Handle and wear it like your favourite silk blouse or dress. Not for everyday, but for special occasions or days when you need a lift by wearing a beautifully natural garment next to your skin. Rest your cashmere between wears and let the fibres settle back into the garment, ready for your next outing.

You can find out more about Cashmere Care, including washing and mending HERE