Silk bedding might be a high-tag investment, but with proper care, it will last much longer than most other bed linen fabrics.
In this blog post, you'll find everything you need to maintain your silk bedding and enjoy a good night's sleep for many years.
Washing Silk Bedding
The first step in maintaining your silk bedding is proper cleaning. You can wash it by hand or in a washing machine, but it's essential to use a gentle detergent and avoid bleach and fabric softeners, as these can damage the fibres of the silk.
Handwashing silk bedding
To handwash your silk bedding, fill a large sink or bathtub with lukewarm water and add a small amount of silk detergent.
Gently swirl the bedding in the water, and be careful not to rub or wring it. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and gently press out any excess water.
Machine washing silk bedding
We recommend hand washing your silk bedding, as machine washing can be too rough. If you must use a washing machine, place your bedding in a mesh laundry bag to protect it.
If machine washing is necessary, use a delicate cycle with cool water (or a Silk cycle, if available) and never wash it with other fabrics to prevent snags or pulls. After washing, gently press out any excess water.
Choosing the right detergent
Only use a pH-neutral liquid detergent to avoid damaging delicate fibres. In addition, we recommend using a detergent specifically formulated for silk.
Avoiding bleach and fabric softeners
IMPORTANT: Avoid bleach and fabric softeners should when cleaning silk bedding. Bleach can damage silk fibres, while fabric softeners can leave a residue that can cause your bedding to become stiff and lose its natural shine.
Drying Silk Bedding
After washing, it's essential to dry silk bedding properly to avoid damage.
Drying silk naturally
Never wring out your silk bedding or twist it, as this can damage the fibres and cause them to lose shape. Instead, gently press the excess water from the bedding and lay it flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll up the towel with the bedding inside to remove any remaining moisture.
Avoiding direct sunlight
After drying, hang the bedding in a well-ventilated area AWAY FROM DIRECT SUNLIGHT.
Avoiding the dryer
Never use a dryer, as the heat can damage the fabric and cause the bedding to shrink or become misshapen.
Ironing Silk Bedding
Ironing silk bedding is unnecessary, as most wrinkles will smooth and release after a few nights' use. However, ironing can help restore the natural shine of the silk.
Choosing the right temperature
Always use a low-temperature setting when ironing silk bedding to avoid scorching or damaging the fabric. We also recommend using a silk ironing cloth to protect the silk from direct heat.
Avoiding steam
Never use steam when ironing silk bedding, as it can cause the fabric to become watermarked or discoloured.
Storing Silk Bedding
Proper storage is equally crucial to maintaining the longevity of your silk bedding. Before storing your bedding, make sure it is completely dry and clean.
Keeping silk bedding in a dry place
Silk bedding should be stored in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture and humidity, which can cause mould and mildew.
Avoiding plastic bags
Avoid plastic bags or containers when storing silk bedding, as they can trap moisture and cause the fabric to become discoloured or mouldy. Instead, store silk bedding in a cotton or linen bag, protecting it from dust and dirt while allowing it to breathe.
Avoiding direct contact with wood
Silk should not be stored in direct contact with wood, as the acids in the wood can damage the fabric. Instead, use acid-free tissue paper or a clean cotton sheet to wrap the silk bedding before placing it in a storage bag.
Refolding silk bedding periodically
Periodically refolding silk bedding can help prevent creases and maintain its shape. However, avoid folding the silk bedding in the same place every time, as this can cause permanent wrinkles.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Silk Bedding
- Don't expose your silk bedding to chemicals or alcohol-based products.
- If your silk bedding becomes stained, don't try removing the stain yourself. Instead, take it to a professional cleaner who specialises in silk.
- Cleaning your silk bedding every two to three weeks will keep it free of dust and allergens.
Follow the instructions outlined in this guide to ensure that your silk bed sheets and silk quilts remain soft, shiny, and comfortable for years.
Update: After understanding that washing a silk quilt was one of the biggest constraints preventing people from buying one, we designed a quilt with a removable washable cover - the only silk quilt of its kind in Australia.
We hope you now understand which silk quilt suits you and your sleeping habits. And if you have any questions, call us on 1300 745 598 (8 am – 6 pm, Mon-Fri) or email our support team.
