How to wash silk
Wash silk safely at home — or know when to send it to a professional.
Updated 31 July 2026
Overview
Silk is delicate but not untouchable. Cold water, mild soap, gentle handling, and no wringing — that's the whole formula. When in doubt, dry-clean.
Check the label first
- "Dry clean only" — take it to a professional. Don't risk it.
- "Hand wash" — you can safely wash it yourself following the steps below.
Hand-wash silk
- Fill a basin with cool water (never hot).
- Add a small amount of mild detergent — a special silk wash or a gentle no-alkali soap.
- Submerge the garment and swirl gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Rinse in cool water until the water runs clear.
- Add a splash of white vinegar to the final rinse — it removes soap residue and restores softness.
- Press water out gently with your hands. Don't wring or twist.
Drying
- Lay flat on a clean towel, roll to blot out extra moisture, then move to a fresh dry towel.
- Air-dry on a padded hanger, away from direct sunlight.
- Never tumble-dry silk.
Ironing
- Iron while slightly damp on the lowest silk setting (or lowest available).
- Iron on the reverse side or with a thin cloth over the fabric.
- No steam bursts on delicate silk.
Stain care
- Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth. Don't rub.
- For stubborn stains, take to a professional cleaner — DIY stain treatments often set the stain on silk.
Long-term care
- Rotate silk pieces — don't wear the same one back-to-back.
- Store in a breathable cotton bag, away from direct light.
- Never spray perfume or deodorant directly onto silk.
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