How to Wash and Care for Your Silk Pillowcase

A mulberry silk pillowcase is an investment — and like any fine textile, it rewards a little care and attention. The good news is that washing silk is much simpler than most people expect. Follow these guidelines and your Sava Republic pillowcase will stay soft, lustrous and beautiful for years.

How Often Should You Wash a Silk Pillowcase?

We recommend washing your silk pillowcase every one to two weeks — roughly the same frequency as your regular pillowcases. Washing more frequently than necessary adds unnecessary wear; washing too infrequently allows oils and product residue to build up in the fibres.

Hand Washing (Recommended)

Hand washing is the gentlest method and will extend the life of your pillowcase significantly.

1. Fill a clean basin or sink with cool water (never hot — heat damages silk protein fibres).
2. Add a small amount of gentle, pH-neutral detergent specifically formulated for silk or delicate fabrics. Avoid standard laundry detergents, bleach, or products containing enzymes.
3. Submerge the pillowcase and gently swish it in the water for two to three minutes. Do not scrub, wring or twist.
4. Rinse thoroughly with cool, clean water until all soap is removed.
5. Gently press water out — never wring or twist the fabric.

Machine Washing (If Necessary)

If hand washing isn't practical, machine washing on a delicate or silk cycle is acceptable with a few precautions:

• Use a mesh laundry bag to protect the fabric from abrasion and snagging.
• Select the delicate or silk cycle with cold water.
• Use a gentle, silk-safe detergent.
• Skip the spin cycle, or use the lowest spin speed available.

Drying Your Silk Pillowcase

Never put silk in a tumble dryer — the heat and tumbling action will damage the fibres and cause shrinkage. Instead:

• Gently roll the pillowcase in a clean dry towel to remove excess water.
• Lay flat or hang on a padded hanger away from direct sunlight.
• Allow to air dry at room temperature. Silk dries relatively quickly.
• Avoid drying in direct sunlight, which can fade the colour and weaken the fibres over time.

Ironing Silk

If you prefer a crisp, wrinkle-free look, iron on the lowest heat setting while the fabric is still slightly damp. Always iron on the reverse side (inside out) and avoid steam, which can leave water marks.

Storing Silk

Store your silk pillowcase in a cool, dry place away from direct light. Avoid storing in plastic bags, which can trap moisture, a breathable cotton bag or pillowcase is ideal for longer-term storage.

What to Avoid

• Hot water or tumble drying
• Bleach or enzyme-based detergents
• Fabric softeners (silk doesn't need them, it's already soft)
• Rubbing or wringing the wet fabric
• Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight

With proper care, your Sava Republic silk pillowcase will remain a bedtime essential for years to come.

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