Silk Care & Maintenance

How to Care for Your Silk

A No-Fuss Guide to Washing, Storing & Looking After the Loveliest Fabric on Earth

Silk—smooth, luxurious, and effortlessly elegant—is one of fashion’s oldest and most beloved fabrics. But how do you know if you’re buying real silk or just a synthetic knockoff? Some people claim that real silk has a smell, while others swear it’s odourless. So, does it really have a scent? And how can you tell if your silk is the real deal? Let’s break down everything you need to know about silk quality, from its smell to how you can test its authenticity at home.

"Silk doesn’t need to be scary. With a few tricks up your sleeve, you can keep it looking as glorious as the day you bought it ?"

Why Silk Deserves a Little TLC

Silk has a reputation: luxurious, elegant, and maybe just a tad high-maintenance. But here’s a secret — caring for it doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you get the basics down, you’ll be treating your silk scarf like the VIP it is, with minimal fuss. We’ll cover all the juicy bits: how to wash, store, de-wrinkle and generally keep your silk looking lush. Oh, and we’ll link you to handy guides along the way!


"If you’ve ever stared at a silk care label like it was written in hieroglyphics, you’re not alone. But don’t panic — we’re about to decode it all for you."

Washing Silk – Should You or Shouldn’t You?

You can wash silk at home, promise. You just need to treat it like the delicate darling it is. Forget aggressive washing machines and harsh detergents — a gentle handwash is the way to go.

  • Always use cold water.
  • Use a silk-specific or delicate fabric detergent.
  • Don’t wring, scrub, or twist.

For more detailed tips (and a confidence boost), check out our full guide: Can I handwash silk?

"Handwashing silk sounds intimidating, but it’s really more of a gentle spa day for your scarf than a chore."


Silk Smells & Stains: What’s Normal?


Yes, real silk can smell a little earthy — especially when wet. It’s totally normal and even a sign of the real deal. If yours is smelling a bit musty, try:

  • Letting it air out flat (not in direct sunlight)
  • Spritzing lightly with a fabric refresher made for delicates
  • Spot-cleaning with water and a soft cloth

Curious about the science-y bit? We get into the nitty gritty here: Does real silk smell?


Drying & Storing Silk


Once washed, resist every urge to chuck it in the dryer (it’s a hard no). Instead:

  • Lay flat on a towel to dry naturally
  • Avoid direct sunlight to prevent colour fading
  • Never hang wet silk; it can stretch!


And about that label... should you snip it off? Find out what we think in our post: Should you remove the label?


When it comes to storing silk, go breathable:

  • Store flat or rolled, not on hangers
  • Use a cotton garment bag for long-term storage
  • Avoid plastic bags or boxes – silk likes to breathe


Ironing, Steaming & The Wrinkle Dilemma


Silk is a bit wrinkle-prone — it’s part of the charm. But you’ve got options:

  • Steam, don’t iron (or iron on the lowest setting with a cloth barrier)
  • Hang in a steamy bathroom to loosen light creases
  • Store scarves loosely folded to reduce wrinkle build-up

Got a stubborn crease? Here’s how to tackle it gently: How to unwrinkle 100% silk

Want to stop them before they start? We’ve got you: How to keep silk from wrinkling


Keeping Your Silk Sustainable


Silk is naturally biodegradable and long-lasting — a big tick in the sustainability column. But the way you care for it can make it even greener:

  • Wash less often and with gentle detergents
  • Skip the dryer and save energy
  • Store it properly to extend its life


At Life & Death Silks, we’re committed to the long game. That’s why we plant one tree for every purchase and use recycled packaging. (Read more about our ethos here.)

"The longer your silk lasts, the fewer fast-fashion flings you’ll need."


Quick Silk Care Checklist


For when you just need the bullet points:

  • ✅ Handwash in cold water with silk-friendly detergent
  • ✅ Lay flat to dry – no wringing or dryers
  • ✅ Steam instead of iron
  • ✅ Store loosely folded in breathable fabric
  • ✅ Avoid direct sun & plastic bags
  • ✅ Be gentle, always


Wrapping It Up


Caring for silk doesn’t require a science degree or a dry cleaner on speed dial. With a little know-how, your favourite silk pieces will be around for decades — looking just as fabulous as they did on day one.

So go ahead. Treat yourself. Wear the scarf. And if you haven’t yet taken the plunge, now’s the time. After all, with every Life & Death Silks purchase, the planet gets a little gift too.


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