Like most people, you probably think that silk is one of the most delicate fabrics around. And you would be right – it is! That’s why it’s essential to know how to wash silk clothes correctly, or you could end up with a big mess on your hands. This article will discuss the best way to clean your silk clothes, so they stay looking and feeling great for years to come.
Read The Label
Before you wash any piece of clothing, it’s always important to read the care label first. The label will give you the best information on how to wash and care for your specific item. With silk, it’s crucial to follow the care instructions so that you don’t damage the fabric. The label will usually tell you what temperature to wash the item at and whether or not it can be tumble-dried. Always err on the side of caution to avoid damaging your clothes.
Test Colors Fastness
It is imperative to test the colors of your silk garments before washing them. You can do this by wetting a small area of the fabric with water and then rubbing it gently with a white cloth. If the color rubs off onto the cloth, it is not colorfast, and you should take it to a professional dry cleaner. Real silk should not bleed when wet.
Wash In Cold Water
After determining that your silk garment is colorfast, you can wash it in cold water on a gentle cycle. You should also use a mild detergent that is specifically for delicate fabrics. Do not use bleach or fabric softener, as these can damage the silk fibers. Fill a sink or basin with cool water and add a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Gently agitate the material in the water to loosen any dirt or grime, taking care not to scrub or wring it too roughly.
Rinse Thoroughly
Once you have washed the garment, it is important to rinse it thoroughly in cool water to remove any traces of detergent. Be sure to rinse until the water runs clear, as detergent residue can cause silk fabric to yellow over time. If you do not rinse thoroughly enough, your garment may also feel stiff and uncomfortable.
Dry Gently
After washing and rinsing your silk garment, it is time to dry it. The best way to do this is to lay the wet garment on a clean towel and roll it up gently, pressing out as much water as possible. Once most of the moisture has been removed, you can either hang the garment on a drying rack or lay it flat on another clean towel to air dry. Avoid hanging silk in direct sunlight, as this can cause the fabric to fade. If you must use a clothes dryer, select the lowest heat setting and remove the garment while it is still damp to avoid damaging the fabric.
Store Your Silk
With proper care, your silk clothes will look beautiful for many years! Once your garment is clean and dry, it is important to store it properly to keep it looking its best. Store the silk in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight or artificial light. You can also store silk garments in acid-free tissue paper or a cotton pillowcase to protect them from dust and other airborne contaminants.
Iron on Low Heat
If your silk garment is wrinkled, you can use an iron on the lowest heat setting to gently remove the wrinkles. Be sure to place a thin towel over the fabric before ironing, and never iron directly on the silk itself. If you do not have an iron, you can also hang your garment in the bathroom while you take a hot shower; the steam will help to remove any wrinkles.
Never Spot Treat
You can also hang your garment in the bathroom while you take a hot shower; the steam will help to remove any wrinkles.
When you spill something on your silk garment, it is crucial to take care of the stain as quickly as possible. However, don’t spot treat the stain with a water-based cleaner, as this can cause the stain to spread. Instead, take the garment to a professional dry cleaner who will be able to remove the stain without damaging the fabric.
Conclusion
Washing silk may seem daunting at first, but it doesn’t have to be! With a little bit of effort, you can keep your silk clothes looking like new. By following these simple tips, you can keep your silk garments looking beautiful for many years to come. Be sure to take care when washing and storing them, and always consult the care label before cleaning. Thanks for reading!
