Silk Robe Care: Washing and Storage Tips

Quick answer

To keep your silk robe in pristine condition, hand wash it in cold water with a gentle detergent, dry it flat away from sunlight, and store it in a breathable garment bag. Avoid wringing, heat, and hanging on wire hangers.

Step-by-step silk robe care routine

1. Check the care label: Always read the care label on your silk robe for specific instructions. It will tell you if the robe is hand wash only or if it can be machine washed on a delicate cycle. When in doubt, hand washing is the safest option. If the label is missing or unclear, treat the robe as hand wash only.
2. Hand wash in cold water: Fill a basin with cold water and add a gentle, pH-neutral detergent designed for silk. Submerge the robe and gently swirl it for a few minutes. Do not scrub or twist the fabric, as this can cause creasing and damage the fibers. Never use hot water or regular detergent, as they can strip silk's natural oils and cause fading.
3. Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with fresh cold water. Swirl the robe gently to remove all detergent residue. Repeat if necessary until the water runs clear. Residual detergent can attract dirt and cause the silk to yellow over time.
4. Remove excess water without wringing: Lift the robe out of the water and press it gently against the side of the basin to remove excess water. Roll the robe in a clean, dry towel to absorb more moisture. Never wring or twist the robe, as this can break the delicate silk fibers. Wringing can also distort the shape of the robe, especially if it has embroidery.
5. Dry flat away from sunlight: Lay the robe flat on a clean, dry towel on a flat surface. Reshape it gently to its original dimensions. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources, as UV rays and high temperatures can weaken the silk and cause color fading. Never hang a wet silk robe to dry, as the weight of the water can stretch the fabric.
6. Iron on low heat with a pressing cloth: If your silk robe is wrinkled after drying, iron it on the lowest heat setting while it is still slightly damp. Place a clean, dry cloth between the iron and the silk to protect the fabric. Avoid steam settings that may leave water spots. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the iron doesn't scorch the silk.
7. Store properly to protect the fabric: Fold your silk robe and store it in a breathable cotton garment bag or a drawer lined with acid-free tissue paper. Avoid hanging silk robes on wire or wooden hangers, which can leave marks or snag the fabric. If you must hang it, use a padded hanger and ensure the robe is completely dry. Never store silk in plastic, as it traps moisture and can cause mildew.

A silk robe worth protecting

• Arianna Green Silk Robe: The Arianna Green Silk Robe is crafted from 90% silk with 10% elastane and features ornate bespoke embroidery panels to the back. The stretch silk and delicate embroidery mean you need to hand wash and dry flat to avoid distorting the fabric and damaging the stitching.