Caring for silk doesn’t have to be complicated, and you absolutely can wash it at home skipping the dry cleaners.
The key word here is ‘gentle’.
🌸
Firstly, with new silk it is always recommended to test for colourfastness by dabbing a damp cotton swab to an inconspicuous spot. If the colour bleeds then you should bring your silk garment to the dry cleaners. I will always test my fabrics for colourfastness, so you are all set to hand wash your Genia Evelina silks at home.
1. Pre-treatments
For deodorant and perspiration stains, fill a spray bottle with equal parts lukewarm water and distilled white vinegar. Spray the area, then use a sponge or double the fabric and gently massage in. You can also use this as an all over spray to eliminate odours. Rinse before washing.
For set in stains, time is of the essence. Spot treat the stain with a gentle detergent, on both the front and underside of the fabric. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. Rinse before washing.
2. Hand washing
Fill a clean basin or sink with cool water (this temperature helps with colourfastness).
Add a gentle detergent, something that is free of harsh ingredients, alternatively you can use a mild shampoo.
Submerge your silk garment, lightly swirling it in the water making sure all areas are being washed.
Drain your basin or sink of the soapy water, refilling it with cool water to rinse out your garment. Repeat as needed.
2.1 Refresh between wears
Instead of constantly washing, use a DIY fabric spray to remove odours, this will help extend the life of your silk garment.
1/2 cup distilled water
1/2 cup vodka
20 drops essential oil
Shake & Spritz
3. Drying
Never wring out your silks or put them in the dryer.
First you’re going to remove excess water by placing your garment flat on a white cotton towel. Fold the towel up over the garment and gently press to absorb water.
Lay flat to dry, or on a padded hanger (you can hang it in your shower/bathtub for it to drip dry)
Never dry silks in the sun, as colours will fade quicker.
To remove any wrinkles, and bring your garment back to life, steaming on a low temperature is preferred over ironing.
However, if you want to use an iron, use the lowest setting (or the indicated silk setting). With your garment inside out, leave the silk slightly damp and I like to use a cotton pressing cloth to avoid direct heat (think of it like drying your hair, using a heat protector)
If your steamer or iron drips and leaves a water stain, submerge the silk in cool water and let it dry again, this should remove the spot.
Tip: I use distilled water in my steamer and iron instead of tap water.
4. Storage
Before you store away your silk garment for an extended period of time, make sure to clean it as any stains, dirt or natural oils could deteriorate the fabric with time.
Avoid folding, hang your garment in a cool, dark and dry closet. Ideally in a breathable cotton garment bag to avoid creases.
🌸
Taking proper care of our clothing is incredibly important. For longevity, but also to value and show respect to our belongings.