Manufacturers typically advocate dry cleaning as the easiest cleaning procedure to promote because it requires fewer instructions than washing. Additionally, dry cleaning delegated the task of cleaning the item to a specialist. This reduces the chances of the fabric being mishandled by the customer.
The term ‘dry clean only’ on a silk item’s care label is frequently put there to protect the maker, rather than the client, unless the silk item features elaborate beading or buttons.
How to Care for a Silk by Hand
It’s always a good idea to verify the care instructions that come with your silk item for example: plus size silk nightgowns, silk scarfs, kids pajamas-before washing it. While you don’t have to blindly follow the care directions, some companies may include helpful instructions particular to the qualities of their silk.
- Check to see if the silk you’re using is colorfast.
Silk is a natural material that takes dye exceptionally well. Silk materials have a tendency to exhibit rich, deep-hued colors. However, use colorfast dyes or finishes. Always run a spot test for colorfastness before submerging your silk in water. You don’t want your silk’s colors to bleed.
- Stains should be pre-treated.
Silk is frequently worn near to the face, which can cause staining from make-up, food, or beverages. It’s critical to remediate a stain as quickly as possible after discovering it, before it dries and settles.
- Get your cleaning station ready.
Before you wash your silk, be sure you don’t have anything on your hands that could harm it. Remove your rings and bracelets, and make sure your nails are free of anything that could pull the silk. Chipped nail polish and damaged nails should be avoided because their sharp edges can become stuck in your silk.
- Fill the sink halfway with cold water and add the silk detergent.
Cool water should be used to wash silk. The water doesn’t have to be icy cold, but it shouldn’t be too warm either. We’re aiming for a slightly cooler than lukewarm water temperature.
- Rinse after removing it from the soapy water.
You can remove your silk scarf from the water once 4 minutes has passed and your timer has gone off. To get rid of any water, do not squeeze or wring the scarf.
- The Best Way to Dry Silk
Begin by spreading a clean towel on the ground. Straighten out the corners of your silk item and lay it down on the towel. Then wrap your scarf in the towel and roll it up. To absorb extra moisture, gently press on the rolled-up towel. Unroll the towel after gently pressing down on it. You’ll see that the silk cloth isn’t dripping water anymore. It’s now ready to be transferred to a flat drying rack.
