The ultimate guide to maximising the lifespan of your silk pieces.
Let's be honest, real silk pyjamas are expensive! But when properly cared for, high quality silk pieces can be an investment, adding comfort and luxury to your evening routine for a lifetime. Here is everything you need to know about caring for silk:
1. Invest in Quality
Poor quality silk garments will not stand the test of time no matter how well-cared for. Only purchase silk pyjamas after considering the following 3 tips:
Silk Weight
What is silk momme?
The weight of silk is measured in "momme" (where 1 momme = 4.34 gsm (grams per square metre)). Low momme silk is thinner and will easily show signs of wear and tear over time.
Look for silk of at least 19 momme, as this means your garment contains more silk per metre of fabric, has more longevity, and is better able to confer the benefits of silk.
Silk Grade
Silk is graded on an A to C scale, where grade "A" is the most premium (i.e. silk fibres are the longest, most pure, and lustrous). Each grade can be split into a numerical scale (i.e. grade 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A, 5A, 6A).
The luxury standard for silk is grade 5A, indicating a higher strength fabric that exhibits a beautiful lustrous sheen.
Silk Construction
Due to the delicate nature of silk, poor construction means that even a garment made from high quality fabric will fall apart at the seams. Construction can be difficult to assess, but we look for the following:
- A thoughtfully-constructed garment has neat and even stitching that supports the fabric from developing pulls and points of weakness.
- Luxury silk clothing usually has French Seams where possible. French seams require much more technical construction and are much stronger, less likely to snag or irritate the skin, and also aesthetically look more pleasing.
- Garments made with a quality construction are more likely to be machine washable. Look for pieces that can be washed by machine to avoid having to hand wash your pyjamas or take them to the dry cleaners (no one has time for that!)
2. How to Wash Silk
How Often to Wash
Real silk does not collect dirt, oils, or allergens as much as other materials, and therefore can be washed less frequently. Washing less often also preserves their condition and lustre.
To keep your garments clean between washes, we recommend warm steaming to remove creases and freshen the silk fibres.
How to Machine Wash Silk
Most brands recommend dry cleaning or hand washing, as these are the best ways to maintain the natural sheen and drape of silk fabric. However, silk garments with a high quality construction can also be machine-washed (only recommended if the care label states so).
All Silky Loungewear silk pyjamas are machine washable with the guide below.
- Always use a washing bag (provided complimentary with all orders) and set your machine to "delicate" cycle.
- Wash in cold water only, with like colours, and gentle detergent.
- Avoid hot water, bleach, harsh detergents. Do not wring.
How to Hand Wash Silk
- Place garments in lukewarm water with a mild detergent.
- Gently swirl the pyjamas in the water for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly
- Do not wring.
How to Remove Stains from Silk
Use a lukewarm wet cloth and pat the stain gently, or gently massage fabric against itself between your fingers in mild detergent. Tough stains can be managed by mixing a small amount of white vinegar with water. Do not rub or scrub silk, and always rinse thoroughly after removing stains.
3. How to Dry Silk
Do not wring or tumble dry silk. To dry, lay flat over a drying rack away from direct sunlight. If needed to remove excess water, roll garments in a clean towel prior to drying.
4. How to Store Silk Pyjamas
Proper storage is essential to keep your silk pyjamas in pristine condition.
- Make sure your silk garments are completely dry to prevent mildew or odours.
- Lighter silk garments (camisoles, shorts, bralettes) can be hung to prevent creasing. Heavier pieces (shirts, pants) should be folded instead, to avoid stretching the fabric.
- Store silk pyjamas in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Avoid storing silk with any sharp objects that could snag or tear the fabric.
Additional Tips for Silk Pyjama Care
Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind when caring for your silk pyjamas:
- Avoid applying perfume, hairspray, or any other alcohol-based products directly on your silk pyjamas, as they can cause discolouration.
- Iron silk pyjamas on the lowest heat setting, or use a steamer to remove wrinkles.
By following these care instructions, you can ensure that your silk pyjamas remain soft, smooth, and luxurious for years to come.
Shop our collection of Australian Made premium (machine washable!) silk pyjamas here
If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch with us via email on contact@silkyloungewear.com <3