How to care for Silk

The ultimate in luxury and elegance, silk is the perfect fabric for year-round sophistication. We love silk styled with skirts, dresses, and trousers for an effortlessly chic look. One of the most delicate natural fibres, your silk garments will remain timeless if cared for properly. In this guide, we’ll share expert tips from our product development team on how to maintain your silk pieces so they stay beautiful for years to come.

Freshening

To keep your silk garments fresh between dry cleans, gently air them out by laying them flat on a bed or towel. This will help remove any odours that may cling to the fabric. After each wear, give your silk pieces some time to breathe before storing them away. A handheld steamer can also be used to refresh silk and smooth out wrinkles, ensuring it always looks pristine.

Spot Cleaning

For minor stains or spills on your silk pieces, act quickly. Use a small amount of cool water and a gentle fabric-specific detergent to dab the stain, taking care not to scrub as silk fibres are fragile. Blot the area with a clean cloth and let the fabric air dry naturally. Keep in mind that professional dry cleaning is still the best option for deep cleaning or stubborn stains.

Washing

Unlike other fabrics, silk should only be dry cleaned to maintain its luxurious texture and sheen. Avoid machine washing or hand washing, as water can damage silk's delicate fibres and cause colours to fade or the fabric to lose its smoothness. Taking your silk items to a trusted dry cleaner will help ensure they maintain their quality over time.

Drying

If your silk garments become slightly damp from spot cleaning, allow them to dry flat on a clean, soft surface. Avoid using a tumble dryer or exposing the fabric to direct sunlight, as both can weaken the fibres and cause shrinkage or fading.

Storing

Silk is highly susceptible to damage from direct light, moisture, and pests like moths, so proper storage is key. Store your silk garments folded in a cool, dry place, such as a drawer or wardrobe, and avoid hanging them for long periods as this can cause stretching. For added protection, use breathable garment bags and include natural moth repellents like lavender sachets or cedar balls.