Can You Put Silk in the Washing Machine? What You Need to Know

One of the most common questions silk owners ask is: can you machine wash silk? The short answer is — sometimes, with the right precautions. Here's everything you need to know to machine wash silk safely without damaging it.

The Risk of Machine Washing Silk

Silk is a delicate natural fiber that can be damaged by the agitation, heat, and friction of a standard washing machine cycle. The main risks include shrinkage from warm or hot water, fiber damage from excessive agitation, color bleeding or fading, loss of luster and softness, and snagging on other items in the wash.

That said, many modern washing machines have delicate or hand-wash cycles that are gentle enough for silk when used correctly.

When Machine Washing Silk Is Acceptable

Machine washing may be suitable for silk items that are labeled "machine washable," everyday silk items like pillowcases and pajamas (not delicate or embellished pieces), and items made from heavier momme weight silk (19mm and above) that are more durable.

When to Always Hand Wash or Dry Clean

• Silk items labeled "dry clean only"
• Delicate or embellished silk garments
• Vintage or heirloom silk pieces
• Silk with special finishes or treatments
• Lightweight silk (under 16mm)

How to Machine Wash Silk Safely

Step 1: Use a Mesh Laundry Bag

Always place silk items in a mesh laundry bag before putting them in the machine. This protects the silk from friction against other items and the drum of the machine.

Step 2: Select the Right Cycle

Use the delicate, hand-wash, or gentle cycle on your machine. These cycles use slower agitation and shorter wash times that are much gentler on silk fibers.

Step 3: Use Cold Water Only

Always select cold water — never warm or hot. Cold water prevents shrinkage and color bleeding.

Step 4: Use a Silk-Safe Detergent

Use a small amount of pH-neutral detergent formulated for silk or delicates. Never use regular laundry detergent, bleach, or fabric softener on silk.

Step 5: Skip the Spin or Use the Lowest Setting

High-speed spinning can damage silk fibers and cause wrinkles. Skip the spin cycle entirely if possible, or use the lowest spin setting available.

Step 6: Remove Promptly and Air Dry

Remove silk items from the machine immediately after the cycle ends. Never leave damp silk sitting in the machine. Lay flat or hang to air dry away from direct sunlight and heat. Never put silk in the dryer.

The Verdict: Hand Washing Is Always Safer

While machine washing on a delicate cycle can work for some silk items, hand washing is always the gentlest and safest option. If you're ever in doubt, hand wash — it only takes a few minutes and significantly extends the life of your silk.

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