Washing your silk pillowcase
The golden rule: gentle and cool. Silk fibres can be weakened by heat and harsh chemicals.
Hand washing (recommended):
- Fill a basin with cool to lukewarm water (never hot)
- Add a small amount of gentle liquid soap or dedicated silk wash
- Submerge the pillowcase and gently swirl for 2-3 minutes
- Rinse thoroughly in cool water until all soap is gone
- Do not wring — press the water out gently or roll in a clean towel
Machine washing: If you prefer the machine, use a mesh laundry bag, select the delicate/silk cycle, use cold water, and skip the spin cycle or use the lowest setting. Never machine wash silk on a regular cycle.
Drying
- Lay flat on a clean towel away from direct sunlight
- Never tumble dry — the heat will damage the fibres
- Avoid hanging on a line while very wet, as the weight of the water can stretch the fabric
- Silk dries surprisingly fast, especially in South Africa's climate
How often should you wash it?
Wash your silk pillowcase every 7-10 days. This is more frequent than many people expect, but your pillowcase collects oils from your skin and hair, product residue, and dust. Regular washing keeps the silk smooth and hygienic.
If you have a rotation of two or three pillowcases — say a white, black, and gray — you can rotate while one is in the wash.
Things to avoid
- Bleach — never use bleach or chlorine-based products on silk
- Fabric softener — silk is already naturally soft; fabric softener coats the fibres and reduces their benefit
- Direct heat — no hot water, no tumble drying, no direct ironing on high heat
- Rough surfaces — avoid washing with items that have zips, velcro, or rough textures
Pure silk vs silk satin pillowcases
The care instructions are similar for both, but there are some differences worth knowing. Pure silk pillowcases (100% mulberry silk) are more delicate and benefit most from hand washing. Silk satin pillowcases are slightly more durable due to the blended weave and handle gentle machine washing well.
Both types provide the same core benefits: less friction on your skin (which can reduce sleep creases and help with acne-prone skin), less frizz in your hair, and a cool, comfortable sleeping surface.
Storing silk
If you are rotating pillowcases and storing one, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A cotton storage bag is ideal. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause yellowing over time.
When to replace
A well-cared-for silk pillowcase can last 2-5 years with regular use. Signs it is time for a replacement: the silk feels rough or thin, it has developed permanent stains, or the zip or seams are coming undone. At that point, the silk can still be repurposed — it makes an excellent polishing cloth.