Silk is infamously known for its lustre, shine, and glamour - and is the staple fabric of our most luxurious pyjamas and underwear. While silk is adored for its soft touch, it’s delicate natural fibre means it can sadly ruin quickly. That’s why we’ve compiled the best silk care tips, to make sure you can take proper care of your beloved silk items so they last (and feel incredible) for years to come.
How to Wash your Silk
Most care labels on silk and delicate items, such as lingerie, lace, and sheer fine fabrics these days say 'dry clean only', however, this hasn't always been the case. Most 'dry clean' only silk items, and many other delicate items, can be washed at home with little time and effort - and actually, it is better at retaining the fabric quality than regular dry cleaning. If the garment is free from padding, tailoring, or embellishments, then there's every chance that it will wash really well with a delicate hand wash product and the right technique.
When washing your silks, either choose a delicate cycle on your washing machine, at a low temperature, or follow our steps below for handwashing. For washing, always make sure you are using a specialist detergent that is designed to protect silk fabric. Our Eco Wash Silk Detergent uses a gentle formula that cleanses silk while also scenting it with our delicate Bergamot and Sandalwood fragrance, making it the best laundry detergent for silk. If you'd like to learn more about what fabrics you can and can't wash in a washing machine, read our blog.
The Steps of Handwashing
- Fill a basin with cool water and add 2-3 caps of our Silk Detergent
- Turn the garment inside out and gently submerge it, then agitate the water with your hands to distribute the soap and water. (It is normal for a little dye to be released). Soak for up to 30 minutes.
- Rinse with fresh cool water until the garment is free from soap and then gently press between your hands or against the sink.
- Absorb excess water with a towel and leave it to dry flat on a towel. Alternatively, you can hang it to dry, making sure to position the item correctly on a hanger to prevent stretching.
Steam your Silks
We just love a light steam! By steaming you will refresh your garment, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and remove the odour (as steaming will remove 96% of bacteria). Plus, the steam will cause the fibres and fabric to swell providing a fuller and more colourful look. Check out our Blue Lily and Bergamot steamer water designed for these moments.
Proper Storing
Although moths are better known for dining on cashmere and wool, they have been known to ruin silk as well, so to protect your silk items, pop a Natural Fragrance Bag in the drawers. The fragrance they release may naturally deter moths, but it beautifully scents the clothes for us.
With our clothing care products, we help bring a little slice of pleasure and luxury to your routine this Valentine’s Day. Follow this care guide for your silks to stay luxuriously soft and smelling divine while ditching the dry cleaner.