What Is Silk?
Silk offers the look and feel of a delicate fabric while being strong and long-lasting when properly cared for. It’s a natural protein fiber obtained from silkworm larvae, which spin cocoons made of continuous filaments. The cocoons are harvested (before the moth inside breaks free), carefully unraveled, and the silk threads collected and spun into yarn.
The Benefits of Silk
Prized for thousands of years due to its soft hand and beautiful sheen, silk's lightweight and breathable nature makes it a natural insulator, regulating body temperature to keep you cool in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Is Silk Washable?
Yes, but it needs special handling to maintain its quality. While many people opt for dry cleaning, there are ways to wash silk safely without damaging the fabric.
How to Wash Silk by Hand
1. Fill a basin or sink with cool water
2. Add a mild detergent, ideally one formulated for delicates
3. Swish, swish, swish
4. Rinse thoroughly
5. Lay items flat on an absorbent towel and roll to gently press out excess moisture
6. Air dry, avoiding direct sunlight, which can cause fading
Can You Wash Silk In The Washing Machine?
Yes. Start by turning the piece(s) inside out. Select the gentlest setting, such as “delicate” or “hand wash.” Set your machine to 86°F or tap cold, and choose an extra rinse. Avoid regular laundry detergents as these often contain harsh chemicals which weaken fibers. Instead, opt for a hypoallergenic or plant-based delicates wash. Finish by air drying (never use the dryer) away from sunlight.
Removing Stains From Silk
Spot clean using a stain remover formulated for delicates. For tougher stains, mix one part distilled white vinegar and one part lukewarm water, then apply directly onto the affected area. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then wash in cold tap water on a gentle cycle. For stubborn stains, try the same solution, using a gentle stain brush with soft, densely packed bristles or your fingers to target stains, and follow the same washing instructions.
How To Dry Silk
Never use a machine dryer for silk. Heat exposure is the fastest way to cause wrinkling, discoloration, static cling, and shrinkage of your delicate silk pieces. Naturally air-drying silk is best. Lay your garment flat on a towel or mesh drying rack, away from direct sunlight. Turn your item over halfway through the drying process to dry the other side.
Caring For Silk After Washing
Steaming is our favorite method for removing wrinkles from silk. Hang the garment and steam from the inside out, moving quickly to avoid touching the fabric with the steamer head. For tricky areas like shoulders, hold the steamer a few inches away for a few seconds. If using an iron, choose the coolest setting, turn the clothing inside out, and place a towel between the silk and the iron. Always keep the iron moving and avoid spraying, as heat can cause damage.
To store your silks, place them in breathable cotton bags, not plastic, to reduce humidity. Lay pieces flat or hang them on wide or padded hangers in a cool, dry place.
Explore our full collection of Washable Silk styles.