Harsh chemicals can damage silk irreversibly, so bleach or any product that contains bleach, enzymes, or whiteners should never be used with silk. Faded or yellowed colors can be rejuvenated by rinsing the garment in water with a few tablespoons of white vinegar. A vinegar rinse also helps protect the fabric from alkali damage. To keep white silk bright, add half a tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide or a few drops of ammonia to the wash. Recent perspiration stains can be treated with a tablespoon of ammonia in half cup of water. Older perspiration may be impossible to remove, but treating them with a vinegar solution can fade them. To prevent greasy stains from setting, sprinkle the stain with talcum powder and lay the stained part of garment on a paper towel until you can get the garment to a dry cleaner. For more serious stains, rather than trying to treat the stain at home, take the garment to the dry cleaner’s as soon as possible.
Drying
Silk should never be dried in a machine drier as the dry air and friction can damage the fabric. To dry silk, first roll it up in a towel and press out the excess water. Once the silk is no longer dripping wet, hang finer silk up to dry and lay heavier types on a flat surface. Heat sources and direct sunlight can yellow silk, so allow the garment to dry in a cool place. Even in cool air silk can still yellow. To prevent this, the garment can be ironed dry instead.
Ironing and Storage
Silk should be ironed only when damp. If the garment has dried, before ironing add moisture to it with a damp cloth. Use a low setting without steam and iron on the reverse side of the garment. Apply only gentle pressure to the silk to smooth the wrinkles out. For long-term storage, keep silk in a cotton pillowcase or other material that can breathe. Avoid plastic, which holds in moisture and encourages mildew growth.
Despite its luxurious appearance, silk is relatively easy to care for. With proper cleaning and care, your silk garments can stay looking new for as long as you own them.