Silk is a luxurious but delicate fabric, which requires special care if it is to be maintained in mint condition. Straightening out silk can be a tricky process, as this natural fibre is sensitive to heat and moisture. Fortunately, with the right methods and tools, it's possible to remove wrinkles without damaging this precious fabric. Here are a few tips for ironing silk safely.
Use a low-temperature clothes steamer
One of the safest ways to smooth creases out of silk is to use a steamer. Unlike an iron, which can cause burns or leave shiny marks, steam is gentle on the fabric. To smooth silk properly with a steamer, hold the steamer close to the fabric and run it gently over the creases.
Iron carefully, at a very low temperature
If you don't have a steamer handy, you can use an iron, but you must be extremely careful. Here are the steps to follow: set your iron to silk mode or to the lowest possible temperature. Place a clean cloth between the iron and the silk item to create a protective barrier. Gently iron the folds, avoiding leaving the iron stationary on any area for too long, to avoid burning the silk.
Hang silk in a warm bathroom
Another simple, safe technique for smoothing silk is to hang your clothes in the bathroom after taking a hot shower. The steam generated in the bathroom will help to relax the silk fibres and remove wrinkles without any direct contact with the fabric.
See also: How do I get creases out of jeans?
Take everyday care of your silk items
To avoid creasing your silk clothes, it's essential to look after them properly on a daily basis. Fold them carefully or hang them on suitable hangers to avoid unnecessary creases. When storing, it's best to keep silk clothes away from damp and direct sunlight, both of which can weaken the fibres.
Additional precautions
- Hand wash or dry clean: When washing silk, choose a hand wash with a mild detergent or take your silk items to a professional for dry cleaning.
- Never wring out silk: If you need to remove excess water after washing, gently squeeze the fabric between two towels instead of wringing it out.