Tips for Washing and Caring for Your Silk Clothes

Silk is one of the world’s most luxurious and timeless fabrics — soft, breathable and effortlessly elegant. At Simply Silky, we believe that with the right care, your silk clothing can stay beautiful for years to come. This guide covers everything you need to know about washing silk, steaming or ironing silk, and storing silk garments safely at home.

1. Washing Silk: Gentle Is Best

When it comes to washing silk, less is more. Silk is a delicate natural fibre, and harsh detergents or vigorous washing can easily damage it.

Handwashing Silk at Home

1. Check the care label: Some silk garments are labelled dry clean only. If your piece can be washed, proceed carefully.
2. Use cool or lukewarm water: Avoid hot water, which can shrink or weaken the fibres.
3. Choose a gentle detergent: Use a pH-neutral, silk-safe detergent — avoid bleach or regular laundry liquid.
4. Gently agitate: Swish the garment lightly in water — don’t wring, twist or scrub.
5. Rinse thoroughly: Use clean, cool water until no detergent remains.
6. Remove excess water carefully: Press the silk between a clean towel to absorb moisture. Never wring it out.

Machine Washing Silk (If Label Allows)

• Use a delicate or silk cycle.
• Place the garment in a mesh laundry bag.
• Wash with cold water and mild detergent only.

Drying Silk

Never tumble dry silk. Instead, lay flat on a clean towel or hang to dry away from direct sunlight. Avoid metal hangers that can rust or stain the fabric.

2. Steaming or Ironing Silk: Removing Wrinkles the Right Way

Silk is sensitive to heat, so it’s important to remove wrinkles gently to maintain its natural sheen.

Hand-Steaming Silk Garments

1. Turn the garment inside out.
2. Use distilled water in your steamer to prevent mineral spots.
3. Keep the steamer 15-20 cm away from the fabric — never touch the nozzle directly to the silk.
4. Move the steamer continuously to avoid over-wetting one area.
5. Allow the garment to air dry completely before wearing or storing.

If you don’t have a steamer, hang the garment in a steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes — it’s a gentle, natural way to relax wrinkles.

Ironing Silk Safely

• Turn the silk inside out.
• Set your iron to the 'silk' or low-heat setting (around 110°C).
• Use a pressing cloth between the silk and the iron.
• Avoid using steam directly, as it can cause water marks.

3. Storing Your Silk Garments

• Hang or fold carefully: Lightweight silk blouses or dresses can be hung on padded hangers. Heavier silk garments can be folded to prevent stretching.
• Avoid sunlight and humidity: Store silk in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• Use breathable garment bags: Choose cotton or muslin covers instead of plastic to allow airflow.
• Keep pests away: Add lavender sachets or cedar balls to protect against moths.

4. Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Silk

• Always test spot cleaners on an inconspicuous area first.
• Avoid spraying perfume or deodorant directly onto silk.
• Rotate your silk pieces — letting them rest between wears helps maintain the fibres.

Love Your Silk, and It Will Love You Back

Caring for silk doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a few simple steps, you can keep your Simply Silky garments looking flawless, soft, and luxurious for years to come.

To explore our range of premium silk pieces, visit Simply Silky or follow us on social media for more care advice and style inspiration.