Care Tips for Washable Silk

Silk is a delicate natural fabric that many love as it feels soft and comfortable against the skin. Because
silk is so delicate, often a silk shirt's label indicates it should either be dry cleaned or hand-washed only.
In most cases, even if the label indicates the shirt can be machine-washed, this fabric will last longer
if you wash it gently by hand or by dry-cleaning. No matter how you choose to clean it, there are important
facts you should know so you don't damage that precious silk shirt.

1.   Use a mild soap and cool or warm water. Strong alkaline detergents weaken silk.

2.  Wash each garment separately as dyes may bleed.

3.  Handle silk garments gently. Don't wring or twist the garment because silk is weaker when wet. After  
     thorough rinsing, roll the item in a clean bath towel to remove excess moisture.

4.  Don't use presoak products or chlorine bleach; both will damage silk.

5.  Air dry the garment away from sunlight until damp dry. Use a padded or plastic hanger to

6. While damp, press the silk item from the wrong side with a dry iron at a warm (silk) setting. A steam
    iron at a low   setting may be used, being sure the iron doesn't "spit," which would cause water
    spots. Iron the fabric dry. Use a press cloth when doing touchups on the right side of the garment.

  Ironing:
   If needed, press your silk fabric inside out with a warm iron. Too much heat can dull, pucker, or burn
   your silk.

  Storage:    
  Keep your silk fabric in a dark closet or drawer, away from excessive sunlight, heat, or moisture.