How to Wash Silk Pillowcases: Hand-Wash and Machine-Care Tips

A silk pillowcase sits close to your face and hair, so regular cleaning is part of ordinary bedding care. The right wash method depends on its label, colour, seams and any trim. Check those details before putting it in water.

Prepare the pillowcase

Remove it from the pillow and close any zip or buttons. Separate it from towels, denim and garments with hooks or zips that could snag the fabric. Wash similar colours together, especially when the pillowcase is new or strongly coloured.

Use a clean basin for hand washing. If the care label permits a machine cycle, place the pillowcase in a mesh bag and avoid packing the drum tightly. Keep the wash short and gentle.

Hand wash step by step

Fill a basin with cool water and dissolve a small amount of mild detergent suitable for silk. Submerge the pillowcase and move it gently through the water. Do not scrub at the surface or twist the corners together.

Rinse with cool water until detergent is removed. Support the fabric with both hands when lifting it out. Press it between clean towels to absorb extra water; wringing can distort the weave and stress the seams.

Can it go in the washing machine?

Only machine wash when the label allows it. Use a mesh bag, a cold delicate cycle and a low spin. Keep the pillowcase away from rough items and choose a mild detergent intended for delicate fabrics.

Avoid bleach, strong stain removers and fabric softener unless the manufacturer specifically recommends them.

For general guidance, see the AU silk care instructions and compare a silk-friendly laundry detergent. The product label remains the final word.

Drying and stain care

Reshape the pillowcase while damp and air dry it away from direct sunlight and heat. A clean drying rack or flat surface helps prevent stretching. Do not tumble dry unless the care label explicitly permits it.

For a fresh spill, blot with a clean white cloth rather than rubbing. Avoid applying hot water or household chemicals before checking the care instructions.

If a mark remains, test only a permitted method on a hidden seam or ask a professional cleaner.

How often should you wash it?

There is no schedule that suits everyone. Consider how often you use it, whether you apply hair or skin products before bed, and your household laundry routine.

Wash it when it needs refreshing, and allow it to dry fully before putting it back on the pillow.

Rotating between two pillowcases can make laundry easier and give each one time to air. Browse the AU silk pillowcase collection if you want to compare closures and sizes.

Use a clean pillow protector underneath and change the pillowcase when it is visibly soiled or no longer feels fresh. A simple routine is usually easier to maintain than a strict calendar that ignores how often you use the pillow.

Common mistakes to avoid

Hot water, a long wash, aggressive rubbing and direct heat can all be harder on delicate fabric. Do not assume that every silk pillowcase has the same construction.

A careful label check and gentle handling are more reliable than a one-size-fits-all rule.