Why Proper Silk Care Matters
Silk pillowcases are a luxurious investment in your hair and skin health — but only if you care for them correctly. Unlike cotton, silk is a delicate natural protein fibre that requires gentle handling to maintain its smooth texture, lustrous sheen, and beneficial properties. Follow this guide to keep your Aurasilks silk pillowcase looking and feeling beautiful for years to come.
How Often Should You Wash Your Silk Pillowcase?
We recommend washing your silk pillowcase every 1–2 weeks, or more frequently if you use heavy hair products or skincare at night. Regular washing removes oils, sweat, and product buildup that can dull the fabric and reduce its benefits for your skin and hair.
Hand Washing: The Safest Method
Hand washing is the gentlest and most recommended method for silk pillowcases:
- Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water — never hot, as heat damages silk fibres.
- Add a small amount of gentle, pH-neutral detergent specifically formulated for silk or delicates. Avoid regular laundry detergents, which are too harsh.
- Submerge the pillowcase and gently swirl it in the water for 2–3 minutes. Do not scrub or wring.
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water until all soap is removed.
- Gently press out excess water — never twist or wring the fabric.
Machine Washing Silk: Proceed with Caution
If you prefer machine washing, always use a mesh laundry bag to protect the fabric. Select the delicate or hand-wash cycle with cold water and a low spin speed. Use a silk-safe detergent and avoid washing with heavy items like jeans or towels.
Drying Your Silk Pillowcase
Never put silk in the tumble dryer — the heat will damage the fibres and cause shrinkage. Instead:
- Lay the pillowcase flat on a clean, dry towel and roll it up gently to absorb moisture.
- Unroll and reshape the pillowcase, then lay it flat or hang it to air dry away from direct sunlight.
- Silk dries quickly — usually within a few hours.
Ironing Silk
If your silk pillowcase needs smoothing, iron it while it is still slightly damp on the lowest heat setting. Always iron on the reverse side and use a pressing cloth between the iron and the silk to prevent shine marks or scorching.
Storing Your Silk Pillowcase
Store silk pillowcases in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade and weaken the fibres over time. Avoid storing in plastic bags — silk needs to breathe. A cotton or linen storage bag is ideal.
What to Avoid
- Bleach or harsh chemicals — these will destroy silk fibres instantly.
- Hot water — always use cool or lukewarm water.
- Rough handling — silk is strong but does not respond well to scrubbing or wringing.
- Direct sunlight for drying — UV rays degrade silk over time.
- Fabric softeners — silk is naturally soft and does not need them; softeners can coat the fibres and reduce their breathability.
Signs Your Silk Pillowcase Needs Replacing
With proper care, a high-quality silk pillowcase can last several years. Signs it may be time for a new one include visible thinning, persistent discolouration, or a loss of the smooth, slippery texture that makes silk so beneficial for hair and skin.
Invest in Quality, Care with Confidence
At Aurasilks, our silk pillowcases are crafted from premium mulberry silk to give you the best possible sleep experience. With the right care routine, your pillowcase will continue to protect your hair from breakage, reduce skin creasing, and regulate temperature night after night.
Ready to experience the difference? Explore our full collection of silk pillowcases and accessories.