How to Wash Silk Shirts

Learning how to wash a silk shirt is a skill that will keep your gorgeous garments looking beautiful and feeling silky soft for many years to come. The good news is, you can hand wash silk at home easily and quickly. There’s no need to take it to a professional dry cleaner as long as you take care and follow the steps below.

Our team at Slipintosoft has some expert advice on why and how to learn to clean your silk clothes at home. Do it right, and you'll enjoy a vibrant wardrobe for a long time to come.

Why Silk Shirts Need Special Care

Silk shirts need special care because they are made of a delicate natural protein fiber that’s prone to damage from harsh chemicals, high temperatures, and rough handling. Not taking care of your silk shirts can lead to shrinking, faded colors, and loss of your shirt’s natural, luxurious texture.

Preparation Before Washing

Before you start washing your silk shirt, it’s important to prepare properly to make sure the delicate fabric is ready. Here’s what to do:

Examine the Label

Before you do anything, check the care label on your silk shirt. The label contains vital information on how to clean your garment safely. It may recommend dry cleaning or specify a gentle hand wash. Follow these instructions closely to make sure you don’t damage your silk shirt.

Gather Supplies

For the process to go quickly and smoothly, make sure you have all the supplies you need before you start washing:

Gentle detergent (specifically crafted for silk or delicates)
Clean sink or basin
White towel for drying
Lukewarm or cool water

Test for Colorfastness

Testing for colorfastness is essential to avoid ruining your silk shirt’s vibrant color. Here’s how to do it properly:

Apply a little water to a small, inconspicuous area of the shirt. Make sure it is damp, not wet.
Blot the area with a white cloth or paper towel.
Check the cloth for any color transfer.

If the color transfers to the white cloth, wash the shirt in cold water to prevent the dye from running.

Pre-Treat Stains

Pre-treating stains is a step that many people forget, but it’s a must to make sure your silk shirt comes out clean and undamaged. Here’s how to handle different types of stains:

Oil-Based Stains: For oil-based stains like makeup or grease, sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch or talcum powder on the stain. Let it sit for a few hours to absorb the oil, then gently brush it off.

Protein-Based Stains: For protein-based stains like sweat or blood, soak the affected area in cold water for about 30 minutes. Do not use hot water because it can make the stain set in for good.

General Stains: For other types of stains, use a small amount of gentle detergent and apply this directly to the stain. Rub the fabric together very gently, or use a very soft brush to work the detergent into the stain. Let the detergent settle and work for a few minutes before washing.

How to Wash a Silk Shirt

Handwashing

Handwashing is the ideal method for washing silk garments, as it’s gentle on this delicate fabric. Always start with water that’s comfortable to the touch but not hot. Hot water can damage the fibers and cause the fabric to shrink or lose its natural luster.

Choose detergents that are mild and free from harsh chemicals. Detergents labelled for delicates, such as Woolite or a special silk wash, are best. Only use a small amount — usually about a teaspoon — for a basin of water. Too much detergent can leave residue on the fabric.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash Silk Shirts by Hand

Fill a clean basin with lukewarm or cold water.
Add a small amount of mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics.
Submerge the silk items or shirt in the water.
Gently swish the silk shirt around with your hands.
Let the shirt soak for about 5 minutes.
Gently rub any soiled areas with your fingers. Do not use excessive force or friction.
Drain the soapy water and rinse any leftover soap out of the basin. Refill the basin with clean, cold or lukewarm water.
Swish the shirt gently to remove all soap residues. (Repeat at least three times, or until the water runs clear.)
Do not wring or twist your silk items or shirts – this can damage the fibers.
Instead of wringing, press the water out gently by rolling the shirt in a clean towel.

Machine-Washing

While handwashing is best, machine washing a silk shirt is acceptable if the care label explicitly states that the item can be machine washed. Even then, it’s important to take extra precautions to protect the fabric.

Place your silk shirt in a mesh laundry bag before putting it in the washing machine. The mesh bag adds an extra layer of protection and prevents the shirt from tangling with other clothes or being stretched.

Select a Suitable Detergent for Machine Wash

Use a detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Do not use bleach or fabric softeners, as they can harm the silk. Only use a small amount of detergent to avoid soap residue buildup. Always follow the detergent’s instructions for the best results.

Choose the Appropriate Machine Settings

When machine washing silk, always use the delicate cycle and cold water. The delicate cycle minimizes agitation and reduces the risk of damage. Cold water prevents shrinking and helps maintain the fabric’s stunning shine.

How to Dry Silk Shirts

Drying a silk shirt properly is essential to maintain its delicate texture and shape. Here are some key tips and methods for drying your silk shirt effectively.

Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat Sources

Silk is a delicate fabric that can easily get damaged by direct sunlight or heat. When drying your silk shirt, always keep it out of direct sunlight and heat sources like radiators or heaters. Exposure to these elements can make the silk fade, become brittle, and lose its natural softness. Instead, choose a shaded, well-ventilated area for drying.

Proper Methods for Air Drying

Air drying is the best method for silk shirts because it’s gentle on the fabric. Lay the shirt flat on a clean, dry towel and gently roll it up to remove excess water. After unrolling the towel, carefully reshape the shirt to its original form. Then, place it on a drying rack or flat surface away from direct sunlight.

Hang Them Up

If you prefer to hang up your silk shirt to dry, use a padded hanger to avoid stretching the fabric. Place the hanger in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.

Other Drying Options

If you don’t have a lot of space, you can use a drying rack or a flat surface. A drying rack allows air to circulate around the fabric, for even drying. For a flat surface, place the shirt on a clean, dry towel or a mesh drying mat.

Additional Care Tips for Silk Shirts

Caring for your silk shirt properly will keep it beautiful and velvety smooth for a long time to come. Here are some additional tips to help you care for silk clothing (not just shirts).

Dealing with Stains on Silk

Spot Treatment: Treat stains on silk fabric as soon as possible, and always before washing.
Blot, Don’t Rub: Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or sponge. Do not rub your silk items, as this can damage your shirt’s delicate fibers.
Rinse Carefully: After treating the stain, rinse the area with cold water until the detergent is completely removed. Air dry the shirt.

Ironing Techniques for Silk

Low Heat Setting: Set your iron to the lowest heat setting, or use the “silk” setting if your iron has one.
Iron Inside Out: Turn the shirt inside out to protect the outer fabric from direct heat. Use a soft pressing cloth for extra protection.
Steady Movements: Iron the shirt using steady, even movements across the fabric. Do not leave the iron in one spot for too long. This will help to prevent scorching.

Storing Silk Shirts to Maximize Lifespan

Avoid Moths: Store your silk shirts in a cool, dry place and use cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter moths, which can damage the fabric.
Proper Folding: Fold your silk shirts carefully to avoid creases. If possible, store them in a breathable garment bag to keep them clean and protected.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Silk Shirts

Oversoaking: Soaking silk for too long will weaken the fibers and make them more prone to tearing.
Rubbing Too Hard: Instead of scrubbing, gently swish the shirt in soapy water for a few minutes to clean it.

Using Harsh Chemicals: Chemicals can strip away silk’s natural luster and weaken the fibers. However, you can try to use diluted white vinegar once every few months to remove residue from soap and to restore some of your silk shirt’s natural texture.

Wringing out Water: Wringing silk items can stretch the fabric and make it lose its shape.
Drying in a Dryer: High heat from a dryer can shrink and damage delicate silk fibers.

How to Wash a Silk Shirt | FAQs

How Often Should You Wash Silk Shirts?

If you only wear your silk shirt occasionally, you can wash it after every 3 to 4 wears. However, for shirts worn regularly, wash them after every 1 to 2 wears. For minor stains or spills, spot-clean the affected area as soon as possible with a damp cloth and a small amount of gentle detergent. This can extend the time between full washes. Silk tends to absorb sweat and oils from the skin, so the more you wear your shirt, the more you’ll need to wash it.

How Do I Remove Wrinkles from a Silk Shirt Without an Iron?

You can use a handheld steamer to gently release wrinkles. Hold the steamer a few inches away from the fabric and move it continuously to avoid water spots. You could also lay your silk shirt flat and place a damp, clean cloth over the wrinkled areas. Then, press gently with your hands to smooth out the fabric. One of the easiest ways to avoid wrinkles is to hang your silk shirt on a padded hanger to dry immediately after washing.

Can I Dry Clean a Silk Shirt?

Dry cleaning can be a suitable option for silk shirts, but it’s important to follow these guidelines:

Follow Instructions: Always check the care label on your silk shirt. If it says “dry clean only,” it’s best to follow that instruction to avoid damage.
Choose a Reputable Cleaner: Use a dry cleaner experienced with delicate fabrics like silk. This will give you peace of mind that they can handle your garments properly.
Frequency: Limit dry cleaning to occasional use, because the chemicals can be harsh on silk over time. For regular maintenance, hand-washing with a gentle detergent is often a better choice.
Discuss Concerns: If your silk shirt has specific stains or concerns, tell your dry cleaner about them. Your dry cleaner should have access to professional treatments and cleaning agents tailored to delicate fabrics.

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How to Wash Silk Shirts