There is nothing more luxurious than sliding into your soft silk sheets at the end of a long day. That's why you spend hundreds of dollars on high quality silk bedding, because you want the experience of sheer perfection. While it is the perfect covering for those who enjoy the finer things in life, it is also extremely delicate to handle and launder. While it does take some extra care, it isn't anywhere near as difficult as you may think it is. Here are some care tips to protect your greatest investment: your comfort.
How to Prolong your Silk Sheets Life
While silk is a durable fabric, it can be unwittingly damaged if your aren't careful. Rough spots and edges on your body such as unmanicured toenails, and unbuffed feet can be the equivalent of running sandpaper and nails along your gossamer fabric. Taking care of your skin and nails is not only of benefit to your silky coverings, it is also beneficial to you.
The first time you wash your sheets, they will probably shrink. That doesn't mean that there is something wrong with them, it is a normal process that silk bedding goes through. Expect about three to four percent shrinkage during the first few washes. Also know, that the bedding makers take shrinkage into account when they make the coverings in the first place.
How to wash silk sheets
Probably the most important part of caring for silk sheets, is knowing how to wash them. Silk is a natural fiber, so you should avoid harsh detergents and soaps that can strip them of their natural properties. The best detergent for silk is Woolite. It's very mild, and many people have had success with it.
The first few washings should be done by hand to preserve the natural sheen of silk fibers. After that you can switch to machine washing if you prefer. However, always use the delicate cycle. You should keep the water at around 86 degrees Fahrenheit, which is barely lukewarm water.
An extra spin cycle is ideal to help wring out as much water as possible from your fabrics. A light and lavender scented fabric softener can also be used, just make sure to avoid bleach at all costs. It will ruin your sheets with stains. Keep the sheets out of direct sunlight, but do allow them to hang dry if it is possible. If not, use the lowest temperature setting available on your dryer. This will prevent the fibers from breaking down and becoming dull and frayed.
Caring for silk sheets can be a little more work, but it is well worth the hassle for what you get in return.By Jacob Barnes
