How Do I Wash or Care for Silk?

Quick Answer

Silk loves gentle care. The safest approach is to hand wash in cold water using a pH-neutral detergent made for silk - free of harsh enzymes and bleach - then air dry away from direct sunlight. Some silk items, such as silk pajamas and silk sheets, can be machine washed on a cold gentle or delicate cycle, but always follow the care instructions included with your specific item, as these can vary by product.

Prefer to watch? Here's a short silk-care guide:

Watch: Caring for Silk

How should I wash my silk?

For the best results and to protect silk's texture and shine over time:

• Use cold water and a gentle, pH-neutral detergent designed for silk (no bleach or harsh enzymes).
• Hand wash when you can, especially for delicate pieces - it's the gentlest option.
• If your item allows machine washing, choose a cold gentle or delicate cycle. For silk sheets, place them in a mesh laundry bag to reduce friction.
• Don't use bleach, and avoid mixing silk with rough fabrics or heavy items.

Machine washing can be convenient, but over time it's harder on silk than hand washing, so when an item is delicate or you're unsure, hand washing is the safer choice. For silk bedsheets, washing before first use can help remove any residue from the production process and improve that first night's comfort.

How do I dry and iron silk?

• Air dry, always. Avoid the tumble dryer - heat can damage silk fibers.
• Don't wring or twist the fabric. Gently press out excess water, then lay the item flat on a clean, dry towel.
• Keep it out of direct sunlight while drying to protect the color.
• If ironing is needed, use a low or dedicated silk setting while the fabric is slightly damp, and place a thin cloth between the iron and the silk.

How should I store silk?

Store silk in a cool, dry place away from direct light. For silk sheets and larger pieces, avoid sealing them in plastic bags, which can trap moisture. A breathable cotton bag or a drawer works well.

Is some shrinkage after washing normal?

A slight change in size after washing can be normal for natural silk. Following the care instructions included with your item - particularly washing in cold water and air drying rather than using heat - helps your silk keep its shape, softness, and luster for years.

In what situations should I contact our Customer Care team?

Contact our Customer Care team via live chat or the Contact Us page if:

• The care instructions for your item are unclear
• You're unsure whether a specific silk item can be machine washed
• Your silk changes texture, shine, color, or size after washing
• An item was accidentally washed with regular laundry, dried in strong sunlight, or put through a dryer
• You'd like extra silk care cards added to a future order (please ask before placing it)

For care-related concerns about an item, we may ask for photos so we can review its condition, and for order-specific help we may ask for your order details.