For thousands of years, silk has been highly prized for its luxurious properties. But quality silk fabrics do require special care.

As renowned silk suppliers and a member of the Silk Association of Great Britain, here at Pongees we are frequently asked how to care for silk fabrics. So, here are our answers to three commonly asked questions.

Can I wash silk in the washing machine?
This depends on the type of silk fabric – check with your supplier or fabric store first. Some kinds of silk can be washed on a delicate cycle at 30° or 40°, but others can only be handwashed with a mild detergent, or dry-cleaned. Types of silk that must only be dry-cleaned include chiffons, taffetas and brocades.

You should always check whether a silk fabric is colourfast before attempting to wash it. This can be done by wetting a small piece of the fabric in cool water, then pressing it with a warm iron against white material to check for colour staining.

How can I remove stains from silk?
You should never bleach, soak or boil silk. If your garment has a mark on it, gently rub it with a clean sponge or brush. If the fabric is badly stained, take it to a dry cleaner who has experience of cleaning silk.

Can I iron silk?
Many silks can be pressed gently on the wrong side of the fabric with a warm iron, while slightly damp, then finished very lightly on the right side. Other types of silk fabric, such as crepes, wild silks and slubbed silks – those with a textured effect – should be pressed while dry. Use a pressing cloth with slubbed and ribbed silks to prevent them becoming fluffy. Don’t use the steam function on your iron, as this may cause water stains.

We are silk specialists who can advise you on how to care for your silk garments and interior fabrics.