Pashmina and silk are fibres from nature and as such, can be laundered by hand, of course. Women all over Asia wash their shawls and wraps in cold rivers and streams every day.

But Westerners often have different expectations for their things -- and we've all had enough favorite wool sweater disasters to know it is usually best to exercise caution with precious textiles. For this reason we make the dry cleaning recommendation.

The good news is that there are now several home dry cleaning products available for use in regular dryers. We've tested a couple and have been pleased with the result.

Sometimes accidents happen and stains occur. We've used several stain removers before dry cleaning to happy effect. But always test first for colorfastness (and residue) in an unobtrusive area.

We use a small hand steamer to remove unsightly wrinkles from our pashminas but they can also be pressed with an iron. For best results use an ironing cloth or thin cotton tea towel and the lowest steam setting.

Textiles should be cleaned prior to long term storage. Pashminas, like sweaters, are best stored flat. Acid free tissue paper placed in the folds will inhibit wrinkles. Cedar sachets impart a pleasant scent and deter moths.