Wondering how to wash silk safely and effectively? Washing silk can be intimidating, but it CAN be done! And done well at that when you use our expert combination of products and techniques to help your garments go from grim to gorgeous with ease. Give your silks the full treatment without leaving your home. This process is applicable for all pieces containing any amount of silk! Even if the silk percentage is small, it’s important to follow these washing instructions. 

Faced with a delicate situation? You’ll need these tools:

The Laundress Delicate Wash, The Laundress Stain Solution, The Laundress Delicate Spray

While silk is washable, it’s important to note that this fabric commonly bleeds and can potentially stain other items in the wash. Or if a single silk garment consists of two or more colors, bleeding can occur. This is normal and will not result in color loss at the end of the wash process. To test for color bleeding, find an inconspicuous area on the item, such as a hem, and dip it in warm water. If dye releases into the water, you’ll know that bleeding would occur if washed. If you discover that an item bleeds during the test, simply take it to the dry cleaners. Or, if the garment is a solid color, wash it alone. It’s also important to note that some smooth finish may be textured after washing.

Stain-Free In Seconds: Treat stains with Stain Solution or the Wash & Stain Bar by applying it directly to the spots and susceptible areas like underarms, necklines, and cuffs. Stain Solution works for removing tannin stains like juice and wine, while the Wash & Stain Bar tackles oil-based blemishes.

Stop That Smell: Mix ¼ cup of Scented Vinegar with cool water and presoak the item for 30 minutes.

Handwashing is always the best and safest method for washing silk.

Put It In Reverse: Prepare to wash by turning the item inside out. Wash with the same or like colors only.

Draw A Bath: Add two capfuls or a squirt of Delicate Wash to a washbasin or sink filled with cool water.

Go Under: Submerge your item and gently agitate the water with your hand to evenly distribute soap and water. Soak for up to 30 minutes.

Rinse Clear: Run cool water through items until rinse water is no longer soapy. Do not wring. Instead, gently press the water out of your item between your hands or against the sink.

Note: If there is color in the water, don’t worry! This is normal and it is simply the yarn releasing color. You will not notice any loss of color in the end.

If you must wash in the machine, we recommend removing silks promptly from the washer to reduce wrinkles. Follow these steps for the best results:

Bag It: Turn item inside out and place it in Mesh Washing Bag to protect it in the machine.

Select Your Cycle: Select the delicate cycle on your washing machine and make sure the water temperature is cold and the spin is on low. Add Delicate Wash considering the machine type and load size.

No-Rush Drying: Lay the item flat in its natural shape on a drying rack or hang to dry. If hanging to dry, be sure to position the item properly on the hanger to prevent stretching.

Wrinkle-Free: Steam to remove wrinkles and rejuvenate the natural luster after washing. This will achieve the perfect finish! Don’t have a steamer handy? Use an iron set to the “steam” setting, hovering over the item – do not make contact.

Stay Fresh: To freshen between washes, spritz Delicate Spray. This versatile formula has antibacterial properties that adds scent while removing odor.