Silk pillowcases are the ultimate luxury for beauty sleep, renowned for their ultra-soft, smooth fabric that’s gentle on hair and skin. Cleaning them without damaging their delicate fibers requires more care than cotton. How do you wash silk pillowcases to preserve their shine and softness? The answer lies in simple adjustments and gentle methods.
Here’s how to keep your silk pillowcases luxurious for years.
How to Gently Wash Silk Pillowcases by Hand
Hand-washing is the best way to clean silk, a delicate fabric that needs more care than a typical wash cycle. Even professionals stick to this method, using gentle detergent and trusting this tried-and-true approach.
What You’ll Need
- Mild detergent designed for silk
- Small basin
- Cool water
Instructions
Fill a basin with cool water and add a few drops of mild detergent for silk. Submerge the pillowcase and gently swish it for a few minutes, avoiding scrubbing or wringing. Rinse thoroughly with cool water, then lay it flat on a clean towel, roll it up, and press gently to remove excess water. Air dry flat on a drying rack or hang it in a shaded area away from direct sunlight.
How to Machine-Wash Silk Pillowcases
Hand-washing is best for silk, but you can use a washing machine with the right precautions. Follow these steps to protect the delicate fibers.
What You’ll Need
- Mild detergent designed for silk
- Mesh laundry bag
- Washer with a delicate, gentle, or hand-wash setting
Instructions
Put the pillowcase in a mesh laundry bag to protect it. Don’t use fabric softener or bleach—use a detergent made for silk. Wash with cold water on a delicate or hand-wash cycle. Let the machine spin out the water, then air dry flat or hang to dry.
How to Remove Stains from Silk Pillowcases
Pillowcases collect sweat, oils, and product residue daily, which can cause stains. White vinegar is a gentle and effective option for treating stains on silk.
What You’ll Need
- White vinegar
- Small basin
- Cool water
Instructions
Fill a basin with cool water and add one tablespoon of white vinegar per quart (avoid hot water, which sets stains). Submerge the pillowcase and gently swish for a few minutes to loosen the stain, then rinse with cool water. Lay flat on a clean white towel, roll it up, and gently press out excess water before unrolling and air drying.