Silk is a great addition to any wardrobe. Buying silk can be an investment and if the clothing is well taken care of can be in used a long time. There are some basics to caring for silk to help you protect your clothing and ensure longevity.

The first step to caring for silk is to read over the care instruction label. See if there is anything specific to the clothing item to bear in mind. 

• Never use bleach on silk products. It can damage the clothes natural fibers.
• Keep silk out of direct sunlight. The sun rays can cause discoloration and possibly damage the fabric..
• Watch the detergent you use, some brands have detergent specifically designed for silk.
• Don’t tumble dry. The heat of a dryer can shrink and damage the fabric.

Can you wash silk clothing in a washing machine?

You can wash silk in a machine. However, it would be best to use a mesh bag to help protect your silk and avoid damaging the fabric. 

• Check the care label before beginning.
• Sort your laundry and don’t wash silk with heavy materials like denim.
• Use a detergent that is designed for silk garments.
• Use the delicate wash option on your machine.
• Use a towel to soak up any additional moisture left on the silk clothing after removing it from the washer.
• When it comes to drying the garment, you will either hang it up or lay flat to dry. Remember not to put it in direct sunlight.

Can you hand wash silk clothing?

Hand washing is probably the safest way to wash silk garments.

• First, submerge your silk garment in cool water.
• Add a few drops of a silk friendly detergent into the water.
• Using your hands move the silk around in the solution.
• After cleaning it in the solution run the silk clothing under cool water until all the soap has been washed out. Use a towel to soak the remaining moisture.
• Hang your silk garment on a drying rack, keeping it away from direct sunlight. Do not rub or agitate the silk while drying.

Dry clean silk clothing?

If the care label says “dry clean only”, contact your Greenville Dry Cleaner – FabriCare of Greenville to allow our team of professionals to take care of your silk garments or favorite clothing.