How to Care for Silk Bed Sheets
Silk fabric can provide one of the most luxurious sleeping experiences. Silk bed sheets have ultimate versatility, retaining body heat in cold weather and having breathability to stay cool in warmer weather. While many think of silk bed sheets as delicate and thin, they may not know how to care for silk sheets properly. Following the steps below can result in durable, long-lasting silk bed sheets.
First: Choosing your wash
Although many silk sheet labels indicate the product can be washed by machine, washing them by hand the first three times is better for long-term care. This protects the sheen of the silk fabric, softens the fibers and helps set the color. Launder silk bed sheets in the washing machine after the initial hand washings.
Second: Washing by hand
When washing silk bed sheets by hand, use tepid water and a gentle biodegradable detergent. Swish silk bed sheets gently in the water with a small amount of detergent. Do not soak silk bed sheets for long or wring out by hand. Wrap the bed sheets in a large towel and squeeze gently to remove excess water.
Third: Washing by machine
With a small amount of detergent, select the gentle or delicate cycle with lukewarm to cool water for your washing machine. Wash silk bed sheets with no other clothes or linens. Use a small amount of fabric softener, but avoid any kind of bleach on silk bed sheets. Do not allow the spin cycle to run completely, causing wrinkles in the silk fibers.
Fourth: The drying
Line-dry silk bed sheets if possible, but not in direct sunlight. If a dryer is necessary, select the coolest setting and promptly remove silk bed sheets while slightly damp. Spread on a bed to finish drying.
Fifth: The ironing
Use a cool iron on the reverse side of the silk bed sheet for a crisper look. If silk bed sheets are cleaned properly, ironing is not needed.
