Silk pillowcases are an investment in your hair and skin — but only if you care for them properly. A 22 Momme 6A mulberry silk pillowcase can last 2-3 years with the right routine, or ruin in a single wash if done wrong. This guide walks you through exactly how to wash a silk pillowcase step by step, whether you prefer hand washing or machine washing.
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Why Proper Silk Care Matters
Silk is a natural protein fiber — similar to human hair. It’s incredibly strong for its weight, but harsh detergents, hot water, and rough handling can break down the protein structure, leaving silk stiff, dull, and prone to tearing.
Higher-momme silk (like our 22 Momme pillowcases) is more durable than lower weights, but it still requires gentle care. To understand why Momme matters, see our guide on what Momme means in silk.
What You’ll Need
- pH-neutral detergent — specifically labeled for silk or delicates (we recommend Tennie or Eucalan)
- Cold water — never above 30°C / 86°F
- A clean towel — for rolling out excess water
- A mesh laundry bag — if machine washing
How to Hand Wash a Silk Pillowcase (Step by Step)
1. Fill a basin or sink with cold water (below 30°C). Add 1 teaspoon of silk-safe detergent and swirl to dissolve.
2. Submerge the pillowcase and gently agitate the water with your hands for 1-2 minutes. Do not wring, twist, or scrub.
3. Let it soak for 3-5 minutes max. Silk doesn’t need long soaking — prolonged soaking can weaken the fibers.
4. Rinse under cold running water until no detergent remains. Add a splash of white vinegar to the final rinse to restore shine.
5. Lay the pillowcase flat on a clean towel, roll the towel up, and gently press to absorb water. Do not wring.
Can You Machine Wash a Silk Pillowcase?
Yes — but only on the right settings. Most modern washing machines have a “Delicate” or “Silk” cycle that’s safe for 22 Momme silk.
- Place the pillowcase in a mesh laundry bag
- Use cold water only (30°C or below)
- Select the “Delicate” or “Hand Wash” cycle
- Use silk-safe detergent (same as hand washing)
- Set spin speed to the lowest option (400 RPM or less)
- Never use the dryer — air dry only
For more care tips, visit our FAQ page where we answer common silk care questions.
How to Dry a Silk Pillowcase
- Air dry away from direct sunlight — UV rays will yellow silk over time
- Hang on a plastic or wooden hanger (not metal, which can leave rust marks)
- Or lay flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated room
- Silk dries quickly — usually within 1-2 hours
- If slightly wrinkled, use the lowest iron setting with a cloth between the iron and silk
Common Silk Care Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | What Happens | Do This Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Hot water | Shrinks and damages silk fibers | Always use cold water (≤30°C) |
| Regular detergent | Strips natural proteins, leaves silk rough | Use pH-neutral silk detergent |
| Wringing or twisting | Breaks fiber structure, causes permanent creases | Roll in towel and press gently |
| Tumble dryer | Heat destroys silk — irreversible | Air dry only |
| Direct sunlight drying | UV causes yellowing and weakening | Dry in shade or indoors |
How Often Should You Wash Your Silk Pillowcase?
Wash your silk pillowcase every 7-10 days. Silk naturally resists dust mites and bacteria, so it doesn’t need washing as frequently as cotton. If you use skincare products at night, you may want to wash every 5-7 days to prevent product buildup.
Pro tip: Rotate between 2-3 pillowcases so you always have a clean one while the others dry. Browse our full silk pillowcase collection to build your rotation.
🛍️ Recommended Silk Pillowcases
All xmomoshop pillowcases are 22 Momme 6A mulberry silk, machine washable on a delicate cycle.
FAQ
Can I use baby shampoo to wash silk?
Yes, in a pinch. Baby shampoo is pH-neutral and gentle enough for silk. However, dedicated silk detergents contain conditioners that help maintain silk’s natural luster.
Will my silk pillowcase shrink after washing?
Silk may shrink 3-5% after the first wash. This is normal. Our pillowcases are pre-shrunk during manufacturing, so additional shrinkage is minimal.
Can I dry clean a silk pillowcase?
Yes, dry cleaning is safe for silk and will not damage it. However, it’s not necessary — gentle hand or machine washing at home is sufficient and more cost-effective.