Guide
How to care for mulberry silk (it's easier than you think)
Real 22-momme silk is machine washable. You do not need dry cleaning, and you do not need a hand-wash ritual. Here is the whole routine.
1. Wash cool, in a mesh bag
Machine wash at 30°C or below on a delicate cycle, preferably inside a mesh laundry bag so the fabric doesn't snag on zips or the drum.
2. Use pH-neutral detergent
Silk is a protein fibre, like hair. Avoid biological detergents, bleach, oxygen brighteners and fabric softener — a mild pH-neutral or silk-specific wash is ideal.
3. Never tumble dry
Press excess water out gently (don't wring), then hang to dry in the shade. Direct sun and heat dull the sheen over time.
4. Iron low, on the reverse
If you want it crisp, iron on the lowest silk setting on the reverse side while slightly damp. Steaming from a distance also works.
5. Rotate two pillowcases
Wash every 7-10 days — more often if you use overnight hair oils or heavy night creams. Owning two makes rotation effortless.
6. Store dry and loose
Keep silk in a breathable cotton bag, never sealed plastic, and away from rough velcro, hairpins and jewellery.
Quick answers
Will it shrink?
Minimal shrinkage at cool temperatures. Hot water and tumble drying are what cause it.
Can I use my usual detergent?
Only if it is non-biological and free of bleach or enzymes. Enzymes break down protein fibres.
What about hair oil or serum stains?
Dab with a little pH-neutral wash and cool water before the full cycle. Don't rub.