Introduction:
There is nothing
more luxurious than
sliding into a bed
with soft silk
sheets at the end
of a long day.
That's why you
spend a lot of
money on high
quality silk
bedding, because
you want the
experience of sheer
perfection and
comfort. While it
is the perfect
covering for those
who enjoy the finer
things in life, it
is also extremely
delicate to handle
and launder. While
it does take some
extra care, it
isn't as difficult
as you may think.
Here are some care
tips to protect
your silk bedding.
How to increase you
silk sheets life:
While silk is a
durable fabric, it
can be unwittingly
damaged if you
aren't careful.
Rough spots and
edges on your body
such as unmanicured
toenails, and
unbuffed feet can
be the equivalent
of running
sandpaper and nails
along your gossamer
fabric. Taking care
of your skin and
nails is not only
of benefit to your
silky coverings, it
is also beneficial
to you.
Always expect some
shrinking of silk
bedding:
The first time you
wash your sheets
they will probably
shrink. That
doesn't mean that
there is something
wrong with them, it
is a normal process
that silk bedding
goes through.
Expect about three
to four percent
shrinkage during
the first few
washes. Bedding
makers take
shrinkage into
account when they
make the coverings.
How to clean silk
bedding:
The most important
part of caring for
silk sheets, is
knowing how to wash
them. Silk is a
natural fiber, so
you should avoid
harsh detergents
and soaps that can
strip them of their
natural properties.
The best detergent
for silk is Woolite.
It's very mild and
provides success.
The first few
washings should be
done by hand to
preserve the
natural sheen of
silk fibers. After
that you can switch
to machine washing.
However, always use
the delicate cycle.
You should keep the
water at around 86
degrees Fahrenheit,
which is barely
lukewarm.
An extra spin cycle
is ideal to help
wring out as much
water as possible
from your fabrics.
A light and
lavender scented
fabric softener can
also be used but
avoid bleach at all
costs. It will ruin
your sheets with
stains. Keep the
sheets out of
direct sunlight,
but do allow them
to hang dry if it
is possible. If
machine dried, use
the lowest
temperature setting
available on your
dryer. This will
prevent the fibers
from breaking down
and becoming dull
and frayed.
Caring for silk
bedding can be a
little more work,
but it is worth the
hassle for what you
get in return.
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