Silk Silk is a luxurious investment fabric we often weave throughout our collections for elevated signatures and occasionwear. We’d recommend always reading the garment care label before going to clean silk styles. Some Whistles silk garments are dry clean only, including all of our printed styles, while others can be hand washed. Make your silk clothing last a lifetime with our guide below. HOW TO WASH, DRY AND IRON SILKA STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE WASHING When the water is too hot, it can cause garments to shrink, so gentle hand washing in cold or lukewarm water will reduce the likelihood of this. Do a small patch test of the item to check for potential shrinkage and colour fastness before you hand wash, and never mix colours in case the dyes transfer from one garment to another. STEP 1 Using a clean bowl, dissolve a small amount of delicate hand wash detergent (or other suitable detergent) into lukewarm water at a max temperature of 30°C. STEP 2 Add the garment and gently agitate it, very lightly rubbing any stains. STEP 3 Gently squeeze the excess washing water out (do not wring or twist as this will damage the fabric). STEP 4 Rinse the item in lukewarm water until all soap residue has been removed. You can add a few tablespoons of distilled white vinegar to the rinse water to neutralise alkali traces and dissolve soap residue. STEP 5 Lay the garment on a clean dry towel and gently press the water out of the fabric by rolling it up in the towel. DRYING Gently pull damp garments to shape, then lay flat to dry. Silk garments can be air dried but it is important to keep them away from direct sunlight (to avoid fibre damage or colour fade). Be sure to avoid: Drying clothes directly on a wooden drying rack, as the wood finishes can leave stains. Drying on a radiator as the heat can cause the silk to shrink and cause the fabric to dull (this can also be a fire hazard). Using a tumble dryer as it can damage the silk. IRONING To minimise the need to iron silk garments, hang them in the bathroom when you have a shower as the humidity will help the creases drop out. If it is necessary to iron silk, follow the below steps: STEP 1 Set the iron to cool. STEP 2 Turn the garment inside out and press whilst damp. Do not wet areas of dry silk as this may cause water marks. STEP 3 Use a clean, soft, lint free and light coloured pressing cloth between the iron and the garment. STEP 4 Take care, as too much heat can cause the silk to become dull, pucker, or burn. MORE TIPS TO CARE FOR YOUR SILK STYLES Do not let hair sprays or perfumes get onto the silk as it will damage the fabric. Do not wash silk too frequently – we advise using a refresher spray, or air it on a hanger (but do ensure it is hung away from direct sunlight). Only iron when absolutely necessary – hang to allow creases to drop out.