To wash silk safely, follow the item’s care label first. For washable silk, use cold or lukewarm water and a small amount of pH-neutral, enzyme-free detergent. Hand washing is the gentlest option; machine washing can work on a delicate cycle inside a fine-mesh bag. Never wring silk, and air-dry it away from heat and direct sunlight.
Key Takeaways
Check the care label before washing any silk item. If it says “Dry Clean Only,” follow that instruction.
Wash washable silk in cold or lukewarm water with a neutral pH, enzyme-free detergent made for silk or wool.
Hand washing is the gentlest choice for washable scarves, blouses, dresses, and other delicate garments.
Machine-washable silk bedding should go inside a fine-mesh bag on a cold, delicate cycle.
Never scrub, twist, or wring wet silk. Press out moisture with a clean towel, then air-dry away from sunlight and heat.
How to Wash Silk Pillowcases and Silk Sheets
Can silk sheets be washed? We get this question often at Mulberry Park Silks. And our answer is always, “Absolutely!” Your pure silk pillowcases and silk sheets are washable, and it's easy to do using the right method. No expensive dry cleaning is needed; follow our silk cleaning instructions below to wash this luxurious fabric properly. Following these guidelines will help preserve the beauty and luxurious feel of your silk for years to come. Washing silk has never been so easy. The safest washing method depends on the item’s care label, construction, dye, and finish. Silk bedding may be designed for home washing, while structured garments, pleated pieces, lined clothing, and color-sensitive silk may require professional cleaning.
Watch this step-by-step demonstration to see how Mulberry Park Silks recommends washing a silk pillowcase, from preparing the item and choosing detergent to protecting it
Do You Need to Wash New Silk Sheets and Pillowcases Before Using Them?
Proper care—including washing, drying, and storing—helps preserve silk's delicate texture and luxurious sheen. That said, our products are OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified against over 1,000 chemicals and are pre-washed and steamed before being boxed, so whether you launder them before first use is up to you and your preferences. If you prefer to wash them, use the silk-safe method described below. For silk from another manufacturer, always follow the item’s care label because dyes, finishes, and construction can change the correct care method. When you wash for the first time, follow these golden rules: Always check the care label for specific instructions, as some items may require special handling. Also test for colorfastness by dabbing a damp, white cloth on an inconspicuous area; if color transfers, do not wash the item at home.
Always launder silk separately in a SILK-ONLY LOAD.
Machine-wash all silk items in mesh laundry bags using a gentle luxury silk detergent (preferably one formulated for silk). Use a neutral pH, enzyme-free detergent specifically labeled for silk or wool.
Silk is a protein-based fiber, so avoid routine washing with detergents that contain protease enzymes or harsh additives. Use only the amount directed on the detergent label, because excess detergent can leave residue that makes silk feel stiff or dull.
Wash your silk sheets as often as you would any other sheets or bedding, or whenever they're dirty or stained. Silk is naturally resistant to mold and dust mites, but it should still be cleaned regularly.
Line dry your silk sheets outside or hang indoors, but in either case, keep them OUT OF SUNLIGHT. We don't recommend putting silk sheets in the dryer, as high heat damages silk fiber. Lay small accessories flat to dry. Silk dries quickly; check every few minutes and add only the time necessary to dry.
Do You Need a Special Silk Detergent?
You do need a special detergent for washing silk. Avoid “all-purpose” or harsh, generic detergents, as they can damage silk's delicate fibers. Choose a gentle, pH-neutral, enzyme-free detergent formulated for silk, like Heritage Park Silk and Wool . Standard detergents contain enzymes that can degrade silk over time because it is a protein-based fabric. The pH of your silk detergent also matters. Silk is a natural fiber (part of what makes it so great for sensitive skin!). Washing it in detergents that are either too acidic or too alkaline will cause those fibers to harden. Using a small amount of gentle, enzyme-free detergent with a neutral pH, like Heritage Park Silk and Wool, aids in preserving the integrity of your fabric with every wash.
What Products Should You Not Use on Silk Pillowcases and Sheets?
Avoid bleach, fabric softener, optical brighteners , and any detergent containing enzymes, as all of these can damage, discolor, or permanently degrade silk fibers.
Chlorine bleach is especially harmful and should never be used on silk. It can damage the delicate natural fibers, causing yellowing, discoloration, and weakening of the fabric.
Fabric softener leaves a waxy residue that dulls silk's natural sheen and coats the fibers.
Optical brighteners are chemicals that can discolor silk and degrade the delicate fibers over time.
Enzyme detergents can do damage over time. Silk is a protein-based fiber (spun from silkworm cocoons); enzymes break down proteins, so repeated use gradually destroys silk fibers from within.
If your item is labeled "Dry Clean Only," or if you're dealing with a serious stain you can't remove at home, take it to a professional dry cleaner who specializes in silk.
Can You Machine Wash Silk?
Yes, you can machine wash silk only when the care label permits it. For Mulberry Park Silks pillowcases and sheets, use cold water, a delicate cycle, a fine-mesh laundry bag, and a neutral-pH, enzyme-free detergent. Wash silk separately from rough fabrics, zippers, hooks, and heavy items that can snag or abrade wet silk.
Check the care label first. Some silk items, like our Harmony Quilted Bed Spread, require dry cleaning to preserve their shape. Items marked “Dry Clean Only” should not be machine washed.
Use a fine mesh laundry bag. Place all silk items in a mesh bag before washing. Silk is lightweight and can catch on the agitator or snag on rough edges from zippers and buttons in the drum. A mesh bag protects against tearing and pulling.
Turn pillowcases inside out before placing them in the bag.
Delicate cycle and cold water only. Always use the mild or delicate cycle (gentle cycle). High temperatures can permanently damage silk fibers.
pH-neutral, silk-safe detergent only. Use only a small amount. Never use bleach, fabric softener, or optical brighteners.
Wash in a silk-only load. Never mix silk with other fabrics, including silk clothes.
How Do You Hand-Wash Silk Pillowcases and Bedding?
To hand wash silk, fill a clean basin with cold or lukewarm water and add a small amount of pH-neutral, enzyme-free detergent. Submerge the item for three to five minutes, move it gently through the water, and rinse thoroughly. Do not scrub, twist, or wring the fabric; press out moisture with a clean towel.
Steps to Hand Wash Silk
Test for colorfastness. Before washing, dab a damp white cloth on a small, hidden area of the fabric. If any color transfers, don't wash the item at home; take it to a professional dry cleaner. This helps you wash silk carefully without risking color bleeding.
Fill a clean basin or sink with lukewarm water and add detergent. Avoid hot water, which can damage silk fibers. Add a few drops of gentle, pH-neutral silk detergent and swirl gently to distribute evenly.
Submerge and soak. Place the silk pillowcase in the water and gently submerge it. Soak for 3–5 minutes to loosen dirt and oils, but do not soak longer than 30 minutes, as this can weaken the fibers.
Gently agitate; do not scrub or wring. Gently swish the pillowcase through the water. Do not use any rough scrubbing or twisting motions, which can damage the delicate fibers.
Rinse thoroughly in cold water. Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, lukewarm water. Submerge and gently swish. Then run the pillowcase under cool water for a final rinse to remove all remaining detergent. For an optional finishing step, add a small amount of distilled white vinegar to the final rinse to help restore silk's natural sheen and remove any alkali traces from the fabric.
Gently press out excess water (never twist). After rinsing, gently squeeze the pillowcase to remove excess water, then pat with a clean towel to absorb more moisture. Do not wring or twist.
Roll in a clean towel to absorb moisture. Lay a clean, dry white towel flat on a surface. Place the pillowcase on top, roll both together, and apply gentle pressure to absorb excess moisture. This helps absorb excess water without damaging the fabric.
Air dry flat, away from direct sunlight. Unroll the towel, remove the pillowcase, and lay it flat on a clean, dry towel or hang it on a drying rack — always out of direct sunlight. As an alternative to ironing, you can slip the pillowcase onto your pillow while slightly damp and smooth out wrinkles by hand — any remaining creases should release on their own within a day or two. Avoid handling wet silk roughly, as it is more delicate when wet.
Tip: For natural stain removal, use lemon juice as a gentle spot treatment before washing, but always test on a hidden area first.
What's the Best Way to Dry Silk Sheets and Pillowcases?
Air-dry silk away from direct sunlight, radiators, and other heat sources. After washing, place the item on a clean white towel, roll it up, and press gently to absorb water. Then lay the silk flat or hang it as directed by the care label. Handle wet silk with care, as it is more fragile when wet, especially if you plan to iron silk bedding and garments afterward . Do not wring, twist, or tumble dry Mulberry Park Silks bedding.
Lay flat or hang in the shade. Use a clothesline, non-slip hanger, or drying rack outdoors or inside, always away from direct sunlight.
Do not wring or twist after washing; roll the silk in a clean white towel to absorb excess water without damaging the fibers. Alternatively, you can gently pat wet silk with a towel to absorb excess water.
Avoid direct sunlight indoors or outdoors. UV exposure can weaken silk fibers and fade colors, especially in darker shades.
Avoid wooden drying racks, which can leach dyes or stains into the fabric. Silk should dry in approximately 45 minutes, depending on temperature and conditions.
Never tumble dry silk. Dryer heat can cause damage, shrinkage, or color fading.
How Do You Wash Silk Robes, Pajamas and Scarves?
Some silk garments are washable, but the fiber alone does not determine the method. Check the label because dyes, interlinings, trims, pleats, and tailoring can change how an item reacts to water. Hand wash only when permitted; use a professional cleaner for items marked “Dry Clean Only” or when a colorfastness test fails.
How Do You Remove Stains from Silk Pillowcases and Sheets?
Act fast; fresh stains are easier to remove. Blot, don't rub, with a clean white cloth. For washable silk, test a hidden area first, then use cool water and a small amount of diluted silk-safe detergent. Avoid bleach, hot water, and untested home remedies. Take persistent or uncertain stains to a silk-experienced cleaner.
For most stains: Spot treat with cool water and a small amount of diluted silk-safe detergent. Always test on a hidden area first to ensure no adverse reaction. Blot gently — never rub — to avoid spreading the stain or damaging the fibers.
For stubborn stains: Consult a professional dry cleaner who specializes in silk rather than attempting to force the stain out at home.
Never use hot water on a silk stain, as heat can set the stain permanently and weaken the fibers.
Can Silk Sheets Be Ironed?
Yes, you can iron silk sheets and pillowcases , though it is not always necessary. Always use low heat—specifically the lowest heat or silk setting—to prevent damage to the delicate fibers. Keep the item inside out, and always place a white cloth between the iron and the fabric. All silk products wrinkle after washing, but the threads will start to relax and straighten after a few nights' use. To remove wrinkles from silk, use the lowest heat or silk setting on your iron or a steamer. Always iron clean silk while it is slightly damp, and place a white cloth or pressing cloth between the iron and the silk to prevent scorching or color transfer. If you prefer to iron, you can iron only your silk pillowcases (since they're all that show!) on the lowest setting available. Read more here about ironing silk sheets and bedding without damaging the fabric.
What to do if Silk Feels Rough After Washing?
Silk is a natural protein fiber similar to human hair, so it can feel rough after washing if treated improperly. Detergent residue, the wrong detergent, or exposure to heat or excessive agitation can cause a rough feel. If residue is likely, rinse the item again in cool water without adding more detergent. Do not use fabric softener. Air dry it, then reassess the texture before washing again.
What's the Best Way to Store Silk Bedding?
Store silk bedding in breathable bags away from direct sunlight, with lavender sachets or cedar balls to protect against moths and humidity.
Breathable storage bag
Away from sunlight
Lavender sachets or cedar balls
What Products Should I Use to Wash Silk?
The two most important products for washing silk at home are a neutral-pH , enzyme-free silk detergent and fine mesh laundry bags. Together, they protect the delicate fibers whether you hand wash or machine wash. Fine Fabric Wash: Heritage Park Silk and Wool Delicates Detergent is the best choice for washing silk. This gentle detergent is specifically formulated to clean silk fabric gently and effectively without causing damage, while sustaining the integrity of silk, wool, linen, and other natural fibers.
Fine Mesh Laundry Bags: Using a laundry bag helps keep your silk pillowcases from tearing, especially if you use a washing machine with an agitator. Silk's light fabric can sometimes get caught under the agitator, causing it to tear and pull the pillowcase apart. A fine-mesh laundry bag helps keep your pillowcase from getting caught and is highly recommended for all silk items. As noted, do not use harsh stain removers, brighteners, or fabric softeners. You can pre-treat stains before laundering; always blot stains gently with a clean cloth after applying any stain treatment to avoid spreading or setting the stain further.
Download Our Silk Bedding Care Guides
Keep your silk bedding looking and feeling beautiful with our easy, step-by-step washing instructions. Choose your preferred method below.
Mulberry Park is Your Source for Luxurious Silk Bedding
Whether you're new to our bedding and accessories, or a veteran, one thing is certain — the care you put into washing and maintaining your silk pillowcases and sheets will pay off in lasting beauty, softness, and comfort for years to come. Have questions or need personalized advice? The Mulberry Park Silks team is here to help. From choosing the right momme weight and Grade 6A silk bedding to finding your perfect silk pillowcase, we're happy to accompany you every step of the way. Reach us by phone at 800-860-1924 or chat with us directly on the site. We'd love to hear from you. Visit us online or call us at (800) 860-1924 to learn more about our silk sheets, silk pillowcases, duvet covers and shams, and real silk accessories, including sleep masks, travel pillows, and silk hair scrunchies.
About the Author: Kendra Cosenza
Kendra Cosenza is the Brand Manager at Mulberry Park Silks, specializing in luxury silk bedding, premium textiles, and fabric care. With extensive hands-on experience in luxury linens and silk product education, Kendra has developed a deep understanding of the unique properties of 100% pure mulberry silk and the specialized care required to maintain its beauty, softness, and longevity. She works closely with product development and customer care teams to help consumers understand silk quality, proper washing techniques, and long-term fabric maintenance. Kendra is passionate about making luxury silk care approachable, helping customers protect their investment and enjoy the lasting benefits of high-quality silk bedding and accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Care for Silk
Yes! Most 100% pure silk items can be safely washed at home with proper care. Whether you're cleaning silk pillowcases, sheets, or silk garments, use cold water and a gentle, pH-neutral, enzyme-free detergent formulated for silk. You can hand wash silk or use a washing machine if the care label permits. Avoid harsh detergents, chlorine bleach, fabric softeners, and high heat, which can damage delicate silk fibers. Always air dry silk away from direct sunlight to preserve its natural softness, strength, and beautiful sheen.
Yes! Many silk fabrics, including Mulberry Park Silks' pillowcases and sheets, are machine washable. To safely wash silk in a washing machine, place your silk items in a fine mesh laundry bag, select the delicate cycle or silk setting, and use cold water with an enzyme-free silk detergent. Always wash silk separately from other fabrics to prevent snagging and excess friction. Avoid fabric softeners, bleach, and high temperatures. Once the gentle cycle is complete, remove the silk promptly and hang or lay flat to air dry away from direct sunlight.
No, we don't recommend using Dawn or other dish soaps to wash silk. Although dish soap removes grease effectively, it isn't formulated to care for delicate, protein-based silk fibers. Some dishwashing detergents contain ingredients or have pH levels that may strip silk of its natural softness, dull its sheen, or damage the fabric over time. Instead, use a gentle, pH-neutral, enzyme-free detergent designed for silk and wool, such as Heritage Park Silk & Wool Laundry Detergent. This helps protect your silk items while effectively removing dirt, body oils, and everyday stains.
If a silk garment's care label says "Dry Clean Only," professional dry cleaning is the safest option. Although some silk fabrics can tolerate delicate hand washing, certain silk clothes have delicate dyes, linings, embellishments, or structured details that water may damage. Hand-washing silk marked "Dry Clean Only" can cause shrinkage, color bleeding, water spots, or permanent changes to the garment's shape. Always follow the manufacturer's washing instructions. When in doubt, consult professional dry cleaners experienced in caring for silk garments.
Not necessarily! Pure silk can get wet, and many silk fabrics are washable. However, whether water will damage a silk dress depends on its construction, dyes, and care label. Some silk garments may develop water spots, shrink, or experience color bleeding when exposed to excess moisture. If your silk dress is washable, use cool water and a gentle, enzyme-free silk detergent. Avoid rubbing, wringing, or twisting wet silk. Instead, gently press out excess water with a clean towel and lay flat or hang to air dry away from direct sunlight. For dresses labeled "Dry Clean Only," professional cleaning is recommended.
Yes, silk can shrink if it is exposed to hot water, excessive agitation, or high heat during drying. While washing silk in cold water helps minimize shrinkage, it cannot eliminate the risk, especially with silk garments that haven't been pre-shrunk. To protect your silk items, always check the care label, use a gentle cycle or hand wash, and avoid hot water. Never wring or twist wet silk, and avoid heat-based tumble drying. Instead, gently remove excess water with a clean towel and air dry away out of direct sunlight to help preserve the fabric's original size, shape, and texture.
About Author
Kendra Cosenza
With a background in the wellness industry, Kendra joined Fine Linen and Bath, our sister company, in 2011, and has since amassed over 13 years of experience in the luxury linens arena. From liaising with our manufacturers and leading our product development to coordinating with our website team, Kendra's fingerprints are on every aspect of Mulberry Park Silks. Kendra is passionate about educating our customers, asking the right questions to skillfully guide them to their perfect product. Beyond her professional pursuits, Kendra is a devoted mom to a vibrant 3-year-old son. In her downtime, she dives into the world of Lego design, races Matchbox cars, and revels in her garden and outdoor adventures with her family.
Favorite Products: Our 22 Momme pillowcases, which she credits greatly with helping clear her complexion over the years. As a toddler mom, she spends 90% of her time with her hair up and never leaves the house without one of our silk scrunchies. Not only do they safeguard her hair from the dreaded ‘hair-tie line’ of damage, but they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Mulberry Park: Accessible and Affordable Luxury Silk
We founded Mulberry Park with one simple mission: to design the highest quality silk items in the market and offer them at an affordable price. And we've done just that, with a full range of silk products made from 100% pure mulberry long strand silk fabric. The silk fabric used for our silk sheets and silk pillowcases has also been OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified to be tested for over 1000 harmful chemicals.
Visit us online or call us at (800) 860-1924 to learn more about our silk sheets, silk pillowcases, duvet covers and shams, and real silk accessories including sleep masks, travel pillows, and silk hair scrunchies.
