Silk Care 101: How to Keep Your Scarves and Shawls Luxurious for Years

There’s something timeless about silk. Its soft touch, elegant drape, and natural sheen make every scarf and shawl feel special, like a little piece of luxury you get to wear every day. But silk is also delicate, and with the right care, your favorite pieces can stay just as beautiful for years to come.

Whether it’s a silk scarf from Bali or a silk shawl you wear season after season, proper care can make all the difference. Here’s your Silk Care 101 guide to keep every piece looking and feeling as luxurious as the day you brought it home.

Gentle Handwashing Is Key 

Silk doesn’t need harsh detergents or aggressive washing. A gentle touch is all it takes.

Here’s how to wash silk scarves and shawls the right way:

  • Use cool or lukewarm water. Never hot, as heat can damage silk fibers.

  • Add a mild, silk-friendly detergent or baby shampoo.

  • Soak the silk piece for no more than 3–5 minutes, gently swirling it around.

  • Rinse thoroughly with cool water to remove all soap.

Pro Tip: Avoid wringing or twisting your silk. Instead, press it gently between two clean towels to absorb excess water.

Skip the Machine — Air Dry Naturally 

Tumble dryers and direct sunlight are silk’s worst enemies. After washing:

  • Lay your silk flat on a clean, dry towel.

  • Roll it up gently to remove extra moisture.

  • Unroll and lay it flat again in a shaded area to air dry naturally.

Avoid hanging wet silk by the edges, as this can stretch the fabric. With a little patience, you’ll preserve its shape and delicate fibers.

Iron with Care or Let Steam Do the Work 

If your scarf or shawl needs a little smoothing, you can iron it but do it gently:

  • Turn the silk inside out or place a thin cotton cloth on top.

  • Use the lowest heat setting (silk setting, if available).

  • Move the iron lightly, without pressing down too hard.

Alternatively, use a handheld steamer to relax wrinkles without direct contact. This method is perfect for maintaining silk’s natural drape and shine.

Store Silk Properly to Prevent Damage 

Silk deserves a little care even when it’s not in use. To keep your scarves and shawls in perfect condition:

  • Store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

  • Fold loosely and place them in breathable fabric pouches or cotton storage bags.

  • Avoid hanging silk scarves for long periods, which can cause stretching.

  • Keep them away from perfumes or cosmetics, as these can leave stains.

Pro Tip: Add a natural moth repellent (like lavender sachets) to your storage area to protect against insects, without harsh chemicals.


Treat Stains with Patience, Not Panic 

Accidents happen, whether it’s a splash of coffee or a drop of foundation. When dealing with stains:

  • Blot gently, don’t rub.

  • Use cool water and a silk-friendly detergent on the affected area.

  • For stubborn stains, consult a professional dry cleaner experienced with silk.

The sooner you act, the easier it is to lift the stain without damaging the fibers.

Why Proper Care Matters 

Silk isn’t just another fabric. It’s a natural fiber with a story. Often hand-crafted, dyed, or painted by artisans who pour their skill and care into every piece. By taking care of your silk, you’re not only preserving its beauty but also honoring the craftsmanship and sustainability behind it.

At Kokoon Silks, each scarf and shawl is made from premium natural silk, designed to be treasured, not just worn. With the right care, these accessories can be part of your wardrobe and your memories for many years.

Explore our silk collections and find your next heirloom piece.

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