The 13 Best Cashmere Sweaters to Buy in 2025, According to Experts and Editors

“Not all cashmere is created equally,” says Fortin. She explains cashmere fibers are typically separated into three grades of quality based on their fineness: A, B and C. Grade A typically consists of the finest and softest fibers, while grade B and C have progressively thicker and less soft fibers, she says. Tan says the grading system “refers to the microns of width per hair, and the less microns of width per hair, the better and softer the quality.” 

Both experts agree that geography plays an integral role in the quality of the cashmere—materials sourced from areas with higher temperatures tend to yield finer cashmere, according to Fortin, while Tan says goats located in colder regions tend to produce finer and denser hair, while “their limited quantities make cashmere an exclusive and expensive material.”

Why does cashmere tend to err on the pricey side? Well, you’ve got Mother Nature, as well as supply and demand, to thank for that. Fortin says that because cashmere fibers are derived from the goat’s soft inner coat, which makes up a smaller percentage of their fleece—as opposed to their coarse outer coat—you’re left with limited availability and a higher price tag. She adds that “it’s difficult to separate the fine and coarse hairs, so cashmere is usually harvested gently by hand with a comb once a year when the goats naturally start to shed their soft undercoats. The entire cashmere process requires skilled labor, careful handling and attention to detail. Ethical practices, stringent quality control measures and the association with luxury in the fashion industry also play a role in the cost of cashmere.”

If you’ve spilled your PSL all over your new cashmere sweater, not to worry—cleaning it *is* possible. Fortin says you should start by filling a basin with cool water and add a small amount of a gentle shampoo or a specially formulated cleanser to the water. Then, she says to place your cashmere in the soapy water and let it soak for a short period. Next, gently agitate the water without rubbing or wringing the sweater, and rinse the sweater with clean water. To remove any excess water, gently press the sweater without twisting it to maintain its fibers. To allow it to maintain its shape and durability, Tan recommends always air drying. 

If you’re only looking to spot clean, Tan suggests occasionally using sweater spray in between washes (after all, she says that you should aim to wear your cashmere between five and six times in between washes). “Just lightly spray and leave your sweater out for a bit before putting it away,” she says. “Pilling is inevitable with all wool and cashmere, but it can be easily removed with gentle strokes of a cashmere comb.”

Fortin adds, “When in doubt, you can always dry clean, but handwashing is typically the gentler approach on your cashmere and your wallet.”

While I wish we could wrap myself in cashmere year-round, it’s mostly a cold-weather treat, meaning most of us will need to store our cozy cashmere knits during spring or summer months. To do so, Tan recommends storing your cashmere sweaters in a cool, dark place away from moisture and dust. “We recommend folding your cashmere in drawers or your wardrobe versus hanging it in a closet,” she says. “For long-term storage, clean or steam your cashmere and fold it neatly in a storage container.” Fortin recommends the likes of a cotton storage bag to shield it from dust and to promote air circulation, and she always stores them with a bit of lavender or cedar as a natural pest-repellent.