Washing silk scarves is not rocket science, but it does require proper care and attention to detail. Here are 5 things you should keep in mind when washing silk scarves to help ensure that they look as good as new after being cleaned.

Step 1: Gather all supplies

A sink, cold water, mild detergent, a washing tub or basin and towels. Ideally, you should use lukewarm water; hot or warm water can actually damage silk fibres and will almost certainly cause them to shrink. While you’re gathering all your things together, take note of what laundry detergent is on hand. Consider stocking up on a special type designed for delicate items that are prone to shrinking if exposed to high temperatures. When in doubt, it never hurts to do a little extra research into each individual item that requires special attention. Most department stores and boutiques offer care guidelines for their merchandise in-store and online as well; check these out as well before proceeding.

Step 2: Fill your sink with lukewarm water

Before you add any soap or detergent, put a little bit of water in your sink. The reason for doing so is because silk scarves are delicate and expensive, and can be easily torn if not handled properly. If you place your scarf into a full sink, it could get damaged due to excess water splashing around. Fill up most of your sink with lukewarm water and then proceed to step 3.

Step 3: Submerge silk scarf

You will first submerge your silk scarf in a softener solution. Simply add 6-8 drops of Soak’s Scented Softener on top of a sink full of warm water and submerge your scarf. Let it soak for at least 10 minutes, but not more than 15 minutes. Be sure to always keep an eye on it because you don’t want to leave it soaking too long or too short of a time period, which can both cause damage.

Step 4: Soak the scarf for 30 minutes

Give your scarf a nice warm bath and let it soak for 30 minutes to an hour. You can add in detergent to help soften up any stains and make sure they don’t stick around. Once you’re done soaking, feel free to hand wash your scarf gently by rubbing it with a small amount of detergent or go on over to your washing machine and throw it in on gentle cycle. Use cool water if you choose, but no need to add any more detergent.

Step 5: Rinse out scarf until water runs clear

This step requires patience. If your scarf is heavily soiled, you may have to rinse it out for a few minutes before you notice that water runs clear. Do not wring out your silk scarf! Instead, lay it flat on a towel and roll up both together in order to press out excess water from fabric. The key here is don’t over work your silk scarf because then there will be irreversible damage. Excess washing of silk can cause deformation or shrinkage of fabrics that cannot be recovered; therefore, giving one more reason why one must take care when washing any piece of clothing made from silk fabrics.

Step 6: Hang to dry on a hanger

Always hang your silk scarves to dry. Never put them in a washer or dryer. If they get wet, gently dab with a towel until they are almost dry, then hang to finish drying. You don’t want excess water absorbed by scarves because it will weaken their fibers and shorten their lifespan. Make sure to remove any tangled strands after you wash them.