Let’s be real. If you’re into vintage, you already care about clothes. You care about the stories they carry, the labels no one makes anymore, and that perfect slouch in a 90s blazer that no new jacket can ever quite get right. But loving vintage also means caring for it...properly.
Because here’s the truth: the most sustainable thing you can do for the planet is love what you already own. Wear it again. Fix it. Handwash it. Keep it in your rotation for as long as humanly possible.
And yes, that goes for all your high-maintenance favorites - the cashmere knits, the soft wools, the delicate silks. If you’ve ever stared at a “dry clean only” tag and thought absolutely not, this one’s for you.
Cashmere
Cashmere is luxury in a sweater. It’s soft, timeless, and somehow makes every outfit feel a little more expensive. The secret to keeping it that way? Be gentle.
Here’s what works for me:
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Turn it inside out.
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Pop it in a mesh laundry bag.
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Use your machine’s handwash or delicate cycle on cold.
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Add a mild detergent made for wool or cashmere.
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Lay it flat to dry on a towel - no hangers, no heat.
If you live somewhere dry (like Canada, where I am), you can even skip the wash sometimes. Just fold it over a hanger and let it air out. The next day, give it a quick steam or use your iron on the lowest setting with a pillowcase between the fabric and the iron.
I’m not a professional, this is just what I do, and it’s kept my vintage knits soft, clean, and alive for years.
Wool
Wool doesn’t need much — it’s naturally odor-resistant and practically self-cleaning. When it does need a little refresh, keep it simple:
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Turn it inside out and use a mesh bag.
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Wash on cold, using the handwash setting.
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Add a gentle wool-safe detergent.
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Lay flat to dry.
Never, ever tumble dry wool. It’s the fastest way to turn your favorite vintage cardigan into something sized for your cat.
For wool coats or blazers, a light steam or spot clean usually does the trick. Save the full wash for when it’s really necessary.
Silk
Silk is delicate, but she’s not high-maintenance if you treat her right. Most silk pieces can be safely washed at home.
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Mesh bag, always.
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Handwash or delicate cycle, cold water.
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Gentle detergent made for silk.
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Skip the wringing — blot dry with a towel instead.
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Hang or lay flat away from sunlight.
Wrinkled silk? No problem. A quick steam brings it back to life, or use your iron on low with a pillowcase layer for extra protection.
If you can’t be bothered to wash it every time, just hang it to air out. Silk refreshes beautifully with a little space and airflow.
Why the Handwash Setting Is Your Best Friend
Modern washing machines aren’t the enemy. The handwash or delicate cycle is your shortcut to clean clothes without the guilt (or the dry-cleaning bill). Add a mesh laundry bag, and you’ve basically recreated the gentle rhythm of handwashing, minus the sink time.
It’s the perfect lazy-girl solution to sustainable care.
The Bottom Line
Caring for your vintage pieces isn’t complicated. It’s a small act of love that keeps your wardrobe - and the planet - a little happier.
Air things out. Use cold water. Be gentle. And most importantly, wear them again and again.
Your clothes have already stood the test of time. With a bit of care, they’ll keep going, just like you!