Silk Care Guide

How to Care For Silk At Home

Silk is strong but it isn’t invincible. Like all natural fibres, it needs to be looked after thoughtfully to ensure its natural longevity is supported.

How to Wash Silk At Home

 Hand Washing Silk (recommended)

• Use cold or lukewarm water (below 30°C).
• Add a small amount of pH-neutral silk detergent. Look for ones marked “suitable for silk” or “delicates” as these contain protein replenishing agents.
• Gently agitate the water, not the fabric.
• Soak for just a few minutes.

Machine Washing Silk (only if the care label allows)

• Use a mesh laundry bag to protect the garment from snags.
• Select a cold, delicate cycle.
• Only use a silk or delicate detergent.

Extra tip: Avoid wash cycles longer than 30 minutes, as prolonged agitation can weaken silk fibres.

Why Silk Should Not Be Soaked

Silk absorbs water quickly, which can cause fibres to swell and lose their structure if exposed for too long. Prolonged soaking or saturation (especially with hot or hard water) can deteriorate silk by:

• Weakening silk fibres
• Causing dye bleeding or streaking
• Leaving permanent watermarks

As such we would always advise you to wash silks quickly, never soaking for extended periods.

How to Dry Silk Properly

• Never wring out silk. It damages the fibres and creates creases that are hard to remove.
• Instead, press gently between two clean towels to remove excess water.
• Reshape while damp and lay flat on a drying rack in the shade.
• Avoid hangers which can distort shape and stretch seams.
• Air dry only.

 How to Iron Silk Safely

• Steam lightly or iron on reverse at the lowest (“silk”) setting while the fabric is still a little damp.
• Use a pressing cloth to prevent damage.
• Keep the iron moving gently, never press hard or hold in one place.
• Avoid spraying water directly onto silk before ironing, as this can cause water marks.

What Not to Do with Silk

• Never use fabric softener or bleach — it can coat and stiffen the fibres.
• Do not rub or scrub.
• Don’t wring out.
• Never hang wet silk.
• Never tumble dry silk, not even on low.
• Steam with caution. Too much heat or moisture can leave marks. A handheld steamer at a distance is often safest.
• Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or heat.
• Avoid frequent dry cleaning, as harsh chemicals can degrade silk fibres over time.