Known for its exquisite beauty and remarkable qualities offers a dream-like experience to the wearer. Yet, to preserve their timeless elegance, special care must be taken. In this blog post, we will delve into the essential tips for maintaining and caring for your well-loved silk pieces. Let's start by explaining what silk actually is and where it comes from.
What is silk?
Silk, a textile with a rich trading history spanning across the world, is a timeless and luxurious fabric crafted from natural protein fibres produced by silkworms. Known for its exquisite beauty and remarkable qualities, silk not only provides insulation to keep you warm in cooler climates but also transports moisture, making it a delightful choice for hot summer days.
Since the fabrication of silk is made without chemicals and since it´s totally renewable, silk is considered durable.
Silk garments keep warmth when needed and does at the same time cool down fast. Our tip is to buy silk garments with a comfortable loose fit, then the cool/heat effect works best.
How to wash silk fabrics?
Washing silk fabrics requires special care to ensure they remain in pristine condition. Follow these steps to wash silk garments effectively:
- Check the Care Label: Always start by checking the care label on your silk garment. It will provide specific instructions and guidelines for washing and caring for the fabric. Follow any recommendations provided by the manufacturer. When the care instructions suggest not washing with water or the garment is labelled 'dry clean only', it's best to drop it off at an environmentally friendly dry cleaner.
- Handwashing is Recommended: Handwashing is the safest method for cleaning silk. Fill a clean basin or sink with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as it can damage the delicate fibres. Add a small amount of mild detergent specifically formulated for silk or a gentle, pH-neutral detergent. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals.
- Submerge and Gently Agitate: Immerse the silk garment in the soapy water and gently agitate it. Swirl it around for a few minutes to ensure the detergent reaches all areas of the fabric. Be careful not to scrub or wring the garment, as this can cause damage.
- Rinse with Cold Water: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin or sink with clean, cold water. Rinse the silk garment thoroughly to remove any remaining detergent. Repeat this rinsing process if needed until the water runs clear and there are no traces of soap.
- Handle with Care: When handling wet silk, be extremely gentle. Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric, as this can stretch or damage the fibres. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water by pressing the garment between your palms.
- Towel Dry: Lay a clean, dry towel on a flat surface and place the damp silk garment on top. Roll the towel and garment together, applying light pressure to absorb the moisture. Repeat this process with a second dry towel if necessary.
- Air Dry: Once excess moisture is absorbed, hang the silk garment to air dry. Choose a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources that could cause damage or fading. Use padded or silk-covered hangers to prevent stretching or distortion.
- Steam to Remove Wrinkles: If your silk garment has wrinkles after drying, you can gently steam it to remove them. Use a handheld steamer or hang the garment in the bathroom while running a hot shower to create steam. Keep a safe distance between the silk and the steam source, and lightly smooth out the wrinkles using your hands.
How to iron silk
If your care label indicates that you can iron your silk garment, then we recommend you follow the instructions below:
- Set the Iron to Low Heat: Silk is sensitive to heat, so it's important to set your iron to a low temperature. If your iron has a specific setting for silk, use that. Alternatively, set it to the lowest heat setting available. Avoid using steam as it can cause water spots or uneven texture on silk.
- Protect the Fabric: To prevent direct contact between the iron and the silk fabric, place a clean, white cloth or a pressing cloth over the area you are going to iron. This protective layer helps to distribute the heat and protect the silk from direct heat exposure.
- Iron Lightly and Smoothly: Gently press the iron onto the cloth, starting from the inside or the backside of the fabric. Move the iron in a smooth and continuous motion, applying light pressure. Avoid keeping the iron in one spot for too long, as this can scorch or damage the silk.
- Work in Sections: Divide the silk garment into smaller sections to ensure thorough and even ironing. Iron one section at a time, and once it is wrinkle-free, move on to the next section. Take your time and be patient to avoid rushing the process.
- Pay Attention to Details: For delicate areas such as collars, cuffs, or intricate designs, exercise extra caution. You can use a lower temperature or even skip ironing these areas altogether. Instead, use your hands to smooth out the fabric gently.
- Hang or Lay Flat to Cool: After ironing, allow the silk garment to cool and set. Hang it on a padded or silk-covered hanger or lay it flat on a clean surface to cool down completely. This helps to maintain the smoothness of the fabric and prevents new wrinkles from forming.
How to store silk fabrics
Before storing silk, ensure that it is clean and free from any stains or dirt. First of all, silk should be stored loosely folded or rolled to avoid excessive creasing. Rolling is a good option for larger silk items or delicate fabrics.
Make sure to use a breathable storage container, such as a cotton or linen garment bag or a clean, acid-free cardboard box. Avoid plastic bags or containers, as they can trap moisture and lead to mildew or mould growth and avoid direct sunlight.
Sunlight can fade and weaken silk fabric over time. Store silk fabrics in a dark or dimly lit area to prevent colour fading and deterioration.
You should maintain a stable and moderate climate in the storage area. Extreme temperature changes or high humidity can damage the silk. Avoid storing silk fabrics in basements, attics, or areas prone to dampness and keep silk fabrics separate from other items to prevent colour transfer or friction damage. If storing multiple silk items together, consider placing acid-free tissue paper between them.
Pro Tip: Regularly check on stored silk: Periodically inspect the stored silk fabrics for any signs of damage, pests, or mould. If you notice any issues, take appropriate action to address them promptly.
If you are still searching for the perfect fabric for your home, we invite you to explore our selection of exquisite luxury fabrics. Should you require any assistance or wish to embark on a personalised journey, please do not hesitate to contact us on: 0116 3266477. We are dedicated to helping you fulfil your wedding gown aspirations.