How to Care for Silk Clothes — Washing and Storage Guide
Silk is one of the most beautiful and enduring fabrics in the world — but it has a reputation for being difficult to care for. That reputation is partly deserved and partly myth. With the right approach, silk can last for decades and improve with age. This guide covers washing, storage, and everyday care for your silk clothes.
Quick answer
Hand-wash silk in cold water with mild detergent — never machine-wash or use hot water. Roll in a towel to remove excess water; never wring. Air-dry flat in shade. Iron on silk setting through a pressing cloth. Store in cotton garment bags with cedar; never plastic.
Understanding Silk
Silk is a natural protein fibre produced by silkworms. It's naturally breathable, temperature-regulating, hypoallergenic, and has a lustre no synthetic fabric can replicate. Its delicacy comes from the fact that, like other protein fibres (cashmere, wool), it can be damaged by heat, harsh detergents, and rough handling.
How to Wash Silk
Hand Washing (Recommended)
Hand washing is the safest method for silk:
- Fill a basin with cool water (never hot — heat damages silk fibres)
- Add a small amount of gentle, pH-neutral detergent or specialist silk wash
- Gently submerge the garment and swirl slowly — do not scrub or wring
- Rinse in cool clean water until all detergent is removed
- Do not wring — gently press water out by rolling the garment in a clean towel
Machine Washing Silk
Some silk garments can be machine washed, but always check the care label first. If machine washing:
- Use a mesh laundry bag to protect the garment
- Select the delicate or silk cycle
- Use cool water only
- Use a gentle, pH-neutral detergent
Dry Cleaning
Dry cleaning is safe for silk but not always necessary. Reserve it for heavily embellished or very delicate pieces. Frequent dry cleaning can actually weaken silk fibres over time.
How to Dry Silk
Never tumble dry silk — the heat and mechanical action will damage it. Instead:
- Lay flat on a clean, dry towel and reshape gently
- Or hang to dry away from direct sunlight (sunlight yellows silk over time)
- Dry in shade or indoors in a well-ventilated space
Ironing Silk
Iron silk when slightly damp on the reverse side, using the lowest heat setting. Never iron directly on the right side — it can damage the lustre. A pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric provides extra protection.
Removing Stains from Silk
Act quickly — blot (never rub) the stain with a clean cloth. For water-soluble stains (food, juice), cool water and gentle dabbing usually suffice. For oil-based stains, a small amount of talcum powder left overnight to absorb the oil before gentle washing can help. For stubborn stains, take to a specialist dry cleaner rather than attempting aggressive home treatment.
Storing Silk
- Store silk folded in acid-free tissue paper or hanging in a breathable fabric garment bag
- Avoid plastic bags — they trap moisture and can cause yellowing
- Store away from direct light and heat
- Cedar balls or lavender sachets deter moths naturally without chemicals
Black Silk Shirt Dress
★★★★★
Pink Crystal Hand Embroidered and Gathered Silk Full Length Dress
★★★★★
First Resort uses silk, georgette, viscose and linen across its collections. Browse the silk collection or read our kaftan fabric guide to find the right fabric for you.
Recognising silk — real versus imitation
Not all fabric labelled as "silk" is equal. Pure silk, silk georgette, silk crepe, and silk satin are all genuine silk products with slightly different textures and weights. Polyester satin imitates silk's sheen but lacks its breathability and drape. The easiest test: hold a piece to the light — real silk has a depth and luminosity that polyester cannot replicate. Real silk also warms quickly when rubbed between fingers; polyester does not.
Georgette, the most common silk variant in resort wear, is a lightweight woven silk with a slight crepe texture. It washes more easily than heavier silk weights and is more forgiving to care for while retaining silk's natural advantages.
Long-term silk care
Silk that is cared for properly lasts decades. The primary enemies of silk are heat, direct sunlight, and prolonged contact with perfume, deodorant, and sweat. Spray perfume before dressing, never directly onto silk. Store silk pieces away from direct light — a wardrobe or drawer rather than a light-exposed rail.
Re-wear silk pieces between washes where possible. Airing a silk piece after wear removes most of what makes a garment feel worn, and reduces the frequency of washing, which extends the fabric's life significantly.