Our customers at Canyon View Cleaners are frequently asking for tips on proper care and handling of silk garments. Silk is a gorgeous fabric that many people love to wear, especially women. But it is very delicate and requires special care and attention to avoid ruin.
If your wardrobe consists of a few articles of silk clothing, follow these eight tips for the best results when caring for silk:
- Silk needs air to breath and keeps best in a dry, dark place. Placing your silk items in a large closed drawer will give you the best results.
- Water marks will stain your silk garments. To remove wrinkles, gently press the item while it is still damp and put the iron on a low setting and do not use steam since steam can leave behind water marks.
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of white vinegar for every two quarts of water when washing your silk garments to prevent any color loss and to keep the silk in top condition.
- Certain silk items are labeled “washable” such as tank tops and underwear. For these items, put them in a mesh bag and wash on the gentle cycle.
- To properly dry your silk garments after washing, roll them up in a towel and gently press the water out. Never wring out the water or you will damage the clothing. Once you have gently pressed the water out with the article rolled up in a towel, remove and hang dry on a padded hanger.
- Silk should always be washed on a setting that keeps the temperature constant (as opposed to a setting that starts with cold water that warms over time). For delicate items, cold water is always best.
- For those articles that require hand washing, place in cool water and use just a little bit of mild detergent such as Woolite or even Ivory soap.
- When in doubt, take it to the dry cleaners. If your item isn’t properly marked or you are unsure of the best way to have it cleaned, take it to your dry cleaner to ensure proper treatment and care.
Recent Comments