The Complete Guide to Caring for Your Mohair Sweater
There is nothing quite like the feel of a hand-knitted mohair sweater — that soft, airy halo and gentle warmth make it one of the most luxurious pieces you can own. Because mohair comes from the Angora goat and is prized for its long, silky fibers, it behaves differently from ordinary wool. With the right care, a mohair sweater can stay soft, fluffy, and beautiful for decades. Here is our complete guide to keeping yours in perfect condition.
Washing: Less Is More
Mohair rarely needs frequent washing. Airing your sweater out after each wear is often enough to keep it fresh, since the fiber naturally resists odor and dirt. When it is time to wash, always hand wash in cool or lukewarm water using a gentle, pH-neutral wool wash. Never use regular detergent, and avoid hot water, which can felt the delicate fibers permanently.
Gently submerge the sweater and press the water through the fabric without rubbing, twisting, or wringing. Rinse thoroughly with water of the same temperature to avoid shocking the fibers.
Drying: Patience Is Key
After washing, never hang a wet mohair sweater, since the weight of the water will stretch it out of shape. Instead, lay it flat on a clean towel, gently roll the towel to absorb excess water, then reshape the sweater and let it dry flat on a fresh, dry towel away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Dealing With Shedding and Pilling
A little shedding is completely normal for mohair, especially when the sweater is brand new — this settles down after the first few wears. If a few loose fibers or small pills appear, gently pull them away by hand or use a fabric shaver on the lowest setting, brushing very lightly. Avoid vigorous brushing, which can thin out the halo over time.
Storage Between Seasons
Always store your mohair sweater folded, never on a hanger, to prevent stretching at the shoulders. Choose a breathable cotton bag or pillowcase rather than plastic, which traps moisture. Add cedar balls or lavender sachets to naturally deter moths, and keep the piece somewhere cool and dry, away from direct light.
A Few Final Tips
- Avoid contact with rough surfaces like Velcro, coarse fabrics, or jewelry with clasps, which can snag the delicate fibers.
- Keep mohair away from direct heat, including radiators and tumble dryers.
- If in doubt, a professional dry cleaner experienced with delicate hand-knits is always a safe option for deeper cleaning.
With a little gentle care, your hand-knitted mohair piece will only get softer and more beautiful with time — a true heirloom quality garment made to be loved for years to come.