Silk Care

Silk isn't just a fabric; it's a commitment to a gentler way of living. These pieces come from a place of patience and care—from the mulberry leaves to the skilled hands that weave them. To honor that journey, they ask for a little tenderness in return. Think of this not as a list of rules, but as a way to keep that whisper-soft feeling alive, wash after wash.

The Golden Rules:

• Hand Wash, Always. This is the single most important thing you can do for your silk. Machine agitation, even on delicate cycles, can weaken the fibers and destroy the surface smoothness we love it for.

• Water Temperature. Use lukewarm or cold water. Hot water can strip silk of its natural sheen and cause colors to fade or bleed.

• Speak Softly (No Harsh Chemicals). Say no to regular detergents. They are too alkaline for silk's delicate protein structure. You need a mild, pH-neutral soap specifically designed for delicates or silk.

• Shade, Never Sun. Silk hates direct, hot sunlight when wet, which can cause it to become brittle and fade. Always dry it in the shade, with plenty of air circulation.

Your Step-by-Step Ritual

1. The Prep
Fill a clean basin or plugged sink with cool water. Add a small amount of your dedicated silk wash. Swirl it with your hand to dissolve.

2. The Gentle Swirl
Submerge your silk item. Gently agitate it with your hands for no more than 2-3 minutes. Don’t twist, scrub, or wring it. For stained areas (like a makeup smudge on a pillowcase), dab a tiny amount of soap directly on the spot and gently press the fabric between your fingers.

3. The Rinse
Drain the soapy water. Refill the basin with fresh, cool water to rinse. For an extra boost of brightness and softness in the final rinse, add a tablespoon of white vinegar. It helps remove any soap residue and restores a lovely luster.

4. The Dry (The Patience Part)
Here’s the secret to avoiding stiffness. Never wring out your silk. Instead, gently press the water out between your palms or roll the item in a clean, dry, white towel to absorb excess moisture.
Then, lay it flat on a fresh, dry towel or a mesh drying rack, away from direct sun and heat. Reshape it gently. A silk pillowcase may take a day to dry fully—that’s okay.

5. The Finish (If Needed)
Ironing is rarely needed if you dry silk flat. But if you must, do it while the fabric is still slightly damp. Use the lowest heat setting ("Silk" or "Cool"). Always iron on the reverse side or place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the silk to prevent water marks or shine.

Quick Tips for Different Pieces

• Pillowcases & Eye Masks: They bear the brunt of skincare products. A quick rinse every week or two is ideal to prevent oil buildup.

• Scrunchies: These are low-maintenance! Wash them when they lose their "grip" or feel less fresh.

• Traveling: Pack a small, breathable pouch (like cotton) for your silk items. It protects them from snags and makes them easy to find.

What to Avoid (The "Don't" List)

• Don't soak silk for hours.

• Don't use a dryer (the heat is destructive).

• Don't hang silk to dry when it's sopping wet—the weight of the water can stretch it out of shape.

• Don't spray perfume or hairspray directly onto it.

• Don't store it in plastic; use a breathable cotton bag to prevent mildew.

A Final Thought:
Caring for silk is a small, quiet act of respect—for the craft, for the material, and for yourself. It teaches us to slow down. When you treat it gently, it returns the favor, offering you its comfort and beauty for years to come. Enjoy that feeling. You've earned it.