How to Wash & Care for Mulberry Silk Bedding and Pillowcases (Without Ruining Them)

Washing Silk Bedding & Pillowcases Made Simple

Many people hesitate to invest in silk bedding or silk pillowcases because they’ve heard silk is “too delicate” or “hard to care for.” The truth? 100% mulberry silk is durable and easy to maintain if you follow a few simple steps.

At the sīlk, our bedding and sleep accessories are designed for real life: washable, practical, and built to last without losing their elegance. Here’s your complete guide on how to wash and care for silk at home.

Can You Wash Mulberry Silk at Home?

Yes! You don’t need expensive dry cleaning to keep your silk fresh. Most mulberry silk products including pillowcases, sleep masks, and bedding can be safely washed at home with the right approach.

👉 Rule of thumb: cool water, gentle detergent, low friction.

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Silk

Washing Silk by Hand (Best for Longevity)

1. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water.
2. Add a small amount of silk-safe or pH-neutral detergent.
3. Submerge silk and swirl gently — avoid rubbing or wringing.
4. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
5. Press (don’t twist) out excess water with a clean towel.

Washing Silk in the Machine (Safe with the Right Settings)

1. Place silk items in a mesh laundry bag.
2. Use the delicate or hand-wash cycle.
3. Select cold water and a gentle silk detergent.
4. Skip fabric softeners and bleach — they damage silk fibers.

How to Dry Mulberry Silk Bedding & Pillowcases

• Air dry only — lay flat or hang in the shade. 
• Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause fading.
• No tumble dryer — high heat weakens silk fibers.
• Never wring — instead, blot gently with a towel.

How to Iron or Steam Silk

• Use the lowest heat setting (often labeled “silk” or “delicate”).
• Always iron on the reverse side, ideally with a pressing cloth.
• Better yet, use a handheld steamer — it smooths wrinkles without direct contact.

Common Silk Care Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using hot water — shrinks and weakens fibers.
❌ Bleach or harsh detergents — strip away silk’s natural sheen.
❌ Drying in direct sunlight — causes fading.
❌ Rough handling — twisting, wringing, or scrubbing damages the weave.

How to Store Silk Bedding & Pillowcases Properly

• Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
• Avoid plastic bags — silk needs to breathe.
• For long-term storage, wrap in cotton or muslin fabric.

Why Mulberry Silk Care Is Easier Than You Think

Unlike cheap synthetics or high-maintenance fabrics, mulberry silk bedding is naturally durable, breathable, and resilient. With just a little care, your silk pillowcases and sheets will stay beautiful for years — soft, glossy, and as luxurious as the first night you slept on them.

Upgrade Your Sleep with the sīlk

At the sīlk, we design silk bedding and sleep accessories you can actually live with — washable, OEKO-TEX® certified, and made from 100% Grade-6A mulberry silk.

✨ Explore our silk collection today — practical luxury that fits effortlessly into your life.