A fabulous silk scarf can be pricey, but it can be worn for decades. Our pure silk scarves—with their hand-rolled and hand-stitched hems —are must-have items for anyone who's fashion-forward. They make the perfect gift (and usable wrapping) for practically anyone - your best friend, maid of honour, mother(in-law), wife, girlfriend and so on.
However, they only last if you take care of them properly, which means hand-washing the delicate garment. Do not attempt to clean silk scarves in a washer, even on the gentle cycle, because excessive agitation may damage the fibers.
You may find a care tag on the scarf that recommends that the scarf be dry-cleaned or dry-cleaned only. The "dry-clean" label is a suggestion, but take the "dry-clean only" directive seriously, however. While some structured silk clothing should be taken to a professional cleaner to keep it looking its best, most scarves with a label that says just "dry-clean" can be washed by hand and still maintain their classic beauty. You can use the same instructions to wash silk pillowcases.
How Often to Clean a Silk Scarf
Silk scarves worn close to the face or around a bare neck should be cleaned more frequently than items worn away from the face or neck. If you have a favorite silk scarf you wear weekly, clean it at least once a month to eliminate dead skin cells, smudged cosmetics, or food particles.
How to Wash Silk Scarves
- Gentle detergent
- Cool water temperature
- Do not machine-wash
- Do not machine-dry
- Hand-wash only
- Iron settings low (if at all needed, also try layer with another fabric if you can)
Pre-Treat Stains
Pre-treat makeup or oil stains on the scarf before hand-washing. Apply a dab of mild detergent directly onto the stained spot. Gently work it into the fabric with your fingers, no hard pulling or rubbing. Allow the detergent to work for at least 15 minutes before you continue washing the entire scarf.
Allow the Scarf to Air-Dry
Air-dry the scarf on a flat surface. Try not use a wooden or metal hanger, which can stain, snag at or leave rust on the fabric.
Never place silk in an automatic dryer, even on low heat. Don't place silk scarves near any source of heat or hang them in the sun because it can cause fading.
Ironing (only if need be)
Silk should be slightly damp when pressed. Use a cool to warm—never hot—iron setting. Press the scarf on the wrong (opposite) side of the fabric using a piece of clean white cloth between the silk and the iron.
Storing Silk Scarves
Always store a silk scarf in a dry place. Be sure the scarf is completely clean before storing. Use lavender-filled sachets or cedarwood blocks to repel insects that can attack the natural silk fiber. Use non-acid tissue paper to soften the folds of a scarf and prevent severe creases, which can break fibers.