Silk is often labelled “dry clean only” - but here’s the truth: most silk and delicate garments can be safely hand washed at home with the right care.
If you’ve ever wondered how to wash silk without ruining it, this guide will show you exactly how - step by step - so you can save money, avoid harsh chemicals, and extend the life of your clothes.
Can You Hand Wash Silk?
Yes - in most cases, you can.
Despite what care labels suggest, many silk garments (as well as lace, lingerie, and sheer fabrics) respond beautifully to gentle hand washing. The key is understanding what to look out for.
You can usually hand wash silk if the garment:
- Has no heavy structure (like tailoring or padding)
- Isn’t heavily embellished (beading, sequins, embroidery)
- Doesn’t have complex pleating or textured finishes
When treated correctly, hand washing is often kinder than dry cleaning, helping preserve the fabric’s natural softness and strength.
The Best Way to Wash Silk at Home
Using a dedicated silk wash is essential. Regular detergents are too harsh and can strip fibres of their natural proteins.
Our Liquid Detergent for Knitwear & Delicates is specifically formulated to:
- Clean gently without damaging fibres
- Maintain softness and sheen
- Lightly fragrance garments with bergamot and patchouli
→ Shop Liquid Detergent for Knitwear & Delicates
Before You Wash Silk
Preparation makes all the difference.
- Check the garment carefully for structure, pleats, or finishes that could distort in water
- Test for colourfastness, especially on multi-coloured items
- For brand new garments, consider one initial dry clean to stabilise dyes
You may notice slight dye release during washing - this is normal, especially the first time.
How to Hand Wash Silk: Step-by-Step
Follow this simple method to safely wash silk at home:
1. Prepare Your Basin
Fill a clean basin with cool water and add 1-2 capfuls of silk wash.
2. Submerge Gently
Turn the garment inside out and place it in the water.
Gently swirl - don’t rub or wring.
Allow it to soak for up to 30 minutes.
3. Rinse Carefully
Drain and rinse with fresh cool water until all soap is removed.
Gently press (never twist) to release water.
4. Remove Excess Moisture
Lay the garment flat on a clean towel, roll it up, and lightly press.
5. Dry Correctly
- Lay flat on a drying rack for best results
- Or hang carefully, ensuring the shape is supported to avoid stretching
Is Hand Washing Better Than Dry Cleaning?
In many cases - yes.
Hand washing silk:
- Avoids harsh chemicals used in dry cleaning
- Preserves fibre integrity
- Helps garments last longer
- Reduces environmental impact
With the right technique, your silk can look and feel better than after dry cleaning.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to hand wash silk properly is one of the simplest ways to protect your wardrobe investment. With a gentle detergent and a little care, you can confidently wash silk at home - keeping your favourite pieces soft, clean, and beautifully maintained for years to come.
To go a step further, consider caring for your silk beyond the wash. Our Scent & Protect Box brings together everything you need to cleanse, revive, and safeguard delicate garments. From specialist silk-friendly detergents to fabric sprays that freshen between wears while helping deter moths, alongside scented sachets, drawer liners, and discreet moth traps - each element works together to maintain freshness and protect natural fibres all year round.
It’s a considered, easy-to-follow approach to caring for silk, helping your garments retain their beauty, feel, and longevity over time.