Your guide to silk care

Silk is one of nature’s most remarkable fibres, smooth, breathable, and luminous. At Afar, we select pure silk for garments that balance refinement with wearability, offering comfort across seasons and an effortless drape that moves with the body.

Yet, silk’s delicacy also means it benefits from mindful care. With gentle washing, careful drying, and thoughtful storage, silk can remain soft, strong, and luminous for many years. This guide offers practical steps to protect your silk pieces and extend their life.

Understanding silk

Silk is a protein fibre produced by silkworms. Unlike plant-based fibres such as linen or cotton, silk shares characteristics with human hair, which explains its sheen, softness, and strength when dry.

Key qualities include:

Softness and sheen - its smooth surface reflects light, giving silk its natural lustre.
Breathability - silk regulates temperature, keeping you cool in warm weather and warm in cooler months.
Lightweight drape - falls fluidly, offering comfort without bulk.
Delicate structure - prone to water spots, fading, or fibre weakening if mishandled.

To wear silk is to embrace a fabric that is both resilient and refined, but only if cared for with intention.

Washing silk

Hand washing (preferred)

Silk responds best to careful hand washing.

Fill a clean basin with cool to lukewarm water (~30°C).
Add a small amount of silk-specific or pH-neutral detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals or strong fragrances.
Submerge the garment inside out and gently agitate with your hands. Do not rub, wring, or soak for longer than 5–10 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly in cool water until clear.
Remove excess water by placing the garment between two clean towels and pressing gently.

Machine washing (with caution)

If machine washing is necessary:

Place silk items inside a mesh laundry bag.
Select the hand wash/delicate cycle with cold water.
Use a silk-friendly detergent.
Avoid spin cycles or set to the lowest spin to reduce stress on fibres.
Wash silk separately from heavy garments to prevent abrasion.

Silk stain treatment

Act quickly: blot stains with a clean, damp cloth, never rub.
Avoid bleach and harsh spot treatments; they damage protein fibres.
For oil-based stains, sprinkle a little cornstarch to absorb residue before washing.
Persistent or set-in stains may require eco-friendly dry cleaning.

Drying silk

Silk fibres are sensitive to heat and direct light.
Never tumble dry.
After washing, roll the garment in a towel to absorb excess moisture.
Lay flat or hang to air dry in the shade. Avoid radiators, heaters, or sunlight, which can cause discolouration or brittleness.
When hanging, use padded hangers to prevent stretching at the shoulders.

Ironing and steaming silk

Silk wrinkles easily, but heat can damage its surface if not applied carefully.
Iron inside out at a low heat setting.
Place a clean, slightly damp cloth between the iron and the fabric to avoid shine or scorching.
Alternatively, steam gently to refresh and ease wrinkles without flattening the fabric’s texture.
Avoid pressing the same area repeatedly, as this may weaken fibres over time.

Storing silk

Proper storage protects silk from fading, creasing, and pests.

Everyday storage: Hang garments on padded hangers in a cool, dark space. Avoid wire hangers, which can leave marks.
Seasonal storage: For long-term storage, fold silk garments carefully and place them in breathable cotton or linen garment bags. Avoid plastic, which traps moisture.
Keep away from sunlight: prolonged exposure causes fading.
Avoid damp spaces: moisture can weaken fibres and lead to mildew.

Tip - For pieces with delicate buttons or trims (such as mother-of-pearl), ensure they are protected when storing to prevent scratching.

Care & repair with Afar

At Afar, we design garments with longevity in mind. Through our Care & Repair Guarantee, we offer a complimentary first minor repair within 12 months of purchase, from small seam fixes to reattaching trims. While silk is delicate, it is not disposable; with timely repair and ongoing care, it can remain a cherished part of your wardrobe.

Silk over time

Silk garments don’t need frequent washing. Often, airing after wear is enough to restore freshness. Over time, silk softens but retains its lustre and strength if cared for gently. With proper care, silk garments can last for many years, becoming timeless pieces in a considered wardrobe.

From our studio to your wardrobe, with love, John and Jana