Silk

There are many different types of silk that are used to create garments. Caring for your silk garments depend on what type they fall under. Some must only be dry cleaned while others can be hand washed. Always read the care labels for proper care instructions, and remember silk should never be thrown into the washing machine with your other garments.

Silk is a very delicate fabric and its fibers can easily be weakened and break down if exposed to perspiration, deodorants or sunlight. Garment shields are a good way to prevent permanent perspiration stains from setting in. Too much exposure to sunlight or other heat sources will likely fade the color of your silk and even turns white silk yellow. Therefore, silk garments should always be dried in shaded areas. To prevent set-in stains from appearing, it is always recommended that silk be dry cleaned or washed shortly after it is worn.

For general hand washing instructions, use mild soap in cool or warm water. Strong alkaline detergents should never be used as they can weaken the fibers. Dyed silk tend to bleed so each garment should be washed individually. Silk garments should always be washed very gently since the fibers are even weaker when wet. Never wring the garment to dry, instead use a clean bath towel to remove excess moisture and allow it to air dry. When the garment is still slightly damp, an iron may be used to remove signs of wrinkling. However, make sure that the setting is on silk and to dry iron the garment with a press cloth in between. If something were to spill on your silk garment, it must be taken to the dry cleaners immediately whether it is hand washable or not. The reason for this is because a permanent ring may form in that specified area so it must be handled by a professional.