How to Care for Silk and Satin Clothes

Silk and satin look delicate, and with a few simple habits they last for years. The key is gentle handling, mild products and low heat. First check what your garment is made from, because the care for pure silk and for polyester satin is different.

Silk and satin are not the same thing

Silk is a fibre produced by silkworms. Satin is a way of weaving yarn so that long threads float across the surface, which gives a smooth, glossy finish. Satin can be woven from silk, polyester, nylon or rayon. Polyester satin is usually more durable and easier to wash than silk satin, so read the label to see what you have. Our care label guide explains the symbols.

How to wash silk

1. Check the label. If it says dry clean only, follow it, especially for lined, structured or dyed-in-the-piece garments.
2. Test for colour loss. Dab a hidden seam with a damp white cloth to see if dye comes off.
3. Use cool water and a gentle detergent. Choose a pH-neutral detergent made for silk or delicates. Avoid strong alkaline detergents, bleach and enzyme detergents, because silk is a protein fibre and these can damage it.
4. Soak briefly. Swish the garment gently for a few minutes. Do not rub, scrub or wring.
5. Rinse well. Use cool water until no soap remains.
6. Remove the water. Roll the garment in a clean towel and press, then reshape it.

Drying silk

Hang the garment on a padded hanger or lay it flat on a towel, away from direct sunlight and radiators. Prolonged sunlight can fade silk and weaken its fibres, and heat can damage it. Never tumble dry silk.

Ironing

Silk can be pressed on a low heat setting, usually marked with one dot. Turn the garment inside out and place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the fabric. Iron while it is slightly damp, and do not spray water directly onto the silk, because water can leave marks. A garment steamer held a short distance from the fabric is gentler still.

Caring for satin

• Silk satin: care for it as you would silk.
• Polyester satin: wash on a gentle cycle in a mesh bag at the temperature on the label, and dry on low heat or hang to dry.
• Keep satin away from rough surfaces and jewellery, which can snag the long surface threads.

Avoiding marks and damage

• Let perfume and deodorant dry before dressing, because they can stain silk.
• Treat spills at once by blotting, and avoid rubbing.
• Never use chlorine bleach on silk.
• Store silk clean, in a breathable cotton bag or on padded hangers, and avoid plastic covers that trap moisture.

When to use a dry cleaner

Choose professional cleaning for tailored silk pieces, garments with beading or lining, and anything you cannot safely test. Tell the cleaner about any stains. For more on natural fibres, read how silk compares in our natural fabrics guide.