A naturally luxurious fabric, silk has been revered for centuries and remains a timeless addition to any wardrobe. Our washable silk styles are sourced from bluesign® certified factories and mills, ensuring high quality and traceability. Learn how to care for sustainable silk styles, including the new the Briana Dress and Jardin print Renata Blouse, so they will last for years to come.
What Is Silk?
Silk offers the look of a delicate fabric while being strong and long-lasting when properly cared for. It’s a natural protein fiber obtained from silkworm larvae, which spin cocoons made of continuous filaments. The cocoons are harvested (before the moth inside breaks free), carefully unraveled, and the silk threads collected and spun into yarn.
The Benefits of Silk
Silk has been prized for thousands of years due to its soft hand and beautiful sheen. Its lightweight and breathable nature makes it a natural insulator, regulating body temperature to keep you cool in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Is Silk Washable?
Yes, but it needs special handling to maintain its quality. While many people opt for dry cleaning, there are ways to wash silk safely without damaging the fabric.
How to Wash Silk by Hand
1. Fill a basin or sink with cool water
2. Add a mild detergent, ideally one formulated for delicates
3. Swish, swish, swish
4. Rinse thoroughly
5. Lay items flat on an absorbent towel and roll to gently press out excess moisture
6. Air dry, avoiding direct sunlight, which can cause fading
Can You Wash Silk In The Washing Machine?
Yes. Start by turning the piece(s) inside out. Select the gentlest setting, such as “delicate” or “hand wash.” Set your machine to 86°F or tap cold, and choose an extra rinse. Avoid regular laundry detergents as these often contain harsh chemicals which weaken fibers. Instead, opt for a hypoallergenic or plant-based delicates wash. Finish by air drying (never use the dryer) away from sunlight.
Removing Stains From Silk
Spot clean using a stain remover formulated for delicates. For tougher stains, mix one part distilled white vinegar and one part lukewarm water, then apply directly onto the affected area. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then wash in cold tap water on a gentle cycle. For stubborn stains, try the same solution, using a gentle stain brush with soft, densely packed bristles or your fingers to target stains, and follow the same washing instructions.
How To Dry Silk
Never use a machine dryer for silk. Heat exposure is the fastest way to cause wrinkling, discoloration, static cling, and shrinkage of your delicate silk pieces.
Naturally air-drying silk is best. Lay your garment flat on a towel or mesh drying rack, away from direct sunlight. Turn your item over halfway through the drying process to dry the other side.
Caring For Silk After Washing
Steaming is our first choice when it comes to removing wrinkles from silk. Hang the item up and steam from the inside out, taking care to move quickly if you’re touching the fabric. You may also hold the steamer a few inches away from the material, which is helpful for tricky areas like shoulders. When using an iron, always select the coolest setting. Be sure to turn the clothing inside out and place a towel between the silk and the iron. Always use the lowest temperature setting and keep the iron moving to help prevent the scorching or burning of the silk. Do not spray silk when ironing, as this can cause damage from the heat.
To store your silks, place them in breathable cotton bags, not plastic, to reduce humidity. Lay pieces flat or hang them on wide or padded hangers in a cool, dry place.
Explore our full collection of Washable Silk styles.