Can you wash silk in the washing machine?

 

Silk is a delicate natural fiber, so we recommend hand washing whenever possible. If the care label does not say “dry clean only” or “hand wash only,” some silk items may be machine washed with extra care.

Here’s how:

1. Turn the item inside out and place it in a fine mesh laundry bag to reduce friction, snagging, or damage during washing.
2. Select a cold, delicate, or silk cycle. Keep the water temperature at or below 30°C / 86°F.
3. Use a mild, silk-friendly detergent. Do not use bleach, alkaline detergent, soap, fabric softener, or strong laundry powder.
4. Choose the shortest wash cycle and a low-speed spin setting. Avoid high-speed spinning, twisting, or wringing.
5. Wash dark-colored silk separately, as darker silk may release color. Do not mix dark and light colors.
6. Remove the item promptly after washing. Do not leave damp silk sealed in the washing machine.
7. Gently press out excess water with a clean towel, then lay flat or hang inside out in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight and high-heat drying.

For embroidered, printed, embellished, or structured silk items, we recommend hand washing or professional care to better preserve the fabric, shape, and details.