At Grace Franc, we’ve got all of the tips to help you keep your favourite silk garments looking their best.
It’s a common misconception that stained silk garments need to be whisked away to the dry cleaners. But you can give your silk forever pieces some TLC from the comfort of your own home.
“FOLLOW OUR SIMPLE STEPS AND YOUR GARMENTS WILL BE LOOKING FLAWLESS AGAIN IN NO TIME….”
+ STEP ONE: PREPARE
As the rich colours in silk can bleed, it’s important to test your garment for colour fastness before washing it. Dip a cotton swab or white cloth into a mix of water and laundry detergent, then press it on a hidden part of the garment to see if any dye comes off. If the garment bleeds, it should be dry cleaned (p). If not, continue with the following steps.
+ STEP TWO: HAND WASH
Unlike other materials, silk should never be spot cleaned, as this can cause lightening in the area. Instead, wash the garment as a whole. Fill a bucket half way with tepid water (two parts cold and one part boiling). NEVER USE THE WASHING MACHINE!
+ STEP THREE: MASSAGE
Measure a small amount of silk care washing detergent and add it to the water. Gently massage in the water and silk care mixture into the garment for three to five minutes. Empty the bucket of soapy water and refill it with fresh tepid water. Gently wash the garment again.
+ STEP FOUR: PUSHING
Gently push water out of the garment Avoid wringing or twisting the garment, as this can damage the fibres in the silk.
+ STEP FIVE: TOWEL DRYING
Lay the wet silk garment flat on a clean, absorbent towel. Gently roll the garment in the towel to remove excess moisture. Repeat this process until the garment is only slightly damp.
+ STEP SIX: HANGING
Hang the garment in a cool, dry place on a clothing rack, placing the towel on the ground underneath. Only hang your garment when it is very slightly damp, so to avoid creases and ensure the garment keeps its shape.
+ STEP SEVEN: STEAMING When your garment is completely dry, use a steamer to restore it to its usual form. Understand that your garment is a unique piece that will slightly fade with time and wear.
