- Silk pillowcases should be washed weekly to prevent bacterial growth.
- Though they’re are machine-washable, hand washing is safest to avoid pilling over time.
- Never put silk bedding in a dryer or iron them, which can warp and shrimk the delicate material.
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It’s no secret that silk pillowcases are more than just chic upgrades for your bed – from their hair-protecting and skin-smoothing benefits, it’s easy to be drawn to them. But those attractive beauty perks will quickly be cancelled out by breakout- and grease-causing dirt and oils if cleaning them isn’t part of your regular routine.
As with any delicate textile, there are specific wash rules that go beyond what’s written on the care label. Follow these tips from Gwen Whiting and Lindsey Boyd, co-founders of The Laundress, on washing your silk pillowcases so you can get the sleep, hair, and skin of your dreams.
Caring for silk
Before starting the cleaning process, it’s important to keep a few things in mind, say Whiting and Boyd, who abide by these four commandments when caring for silk.
- Do not wash silk in hot water.
- Do not place silk in the dryer.
- Do not use an iron on silk.
- Do not use bleach on silk.
How often should you wash a silk pillowcase?
As with any cover, it’s important to wash your silk pillowcases once a week to avoid bacteria buildup. After all, you sleep on them every night and it’s important to remember that your body’s oils will accumulate on your bedding over time. For the sake of your skin, hair, and pillowcases, add it to your weekly to-do list.
When should you replace a silk pillowcase?
"Your silk pillowcases should last a long time if they are properly cared for," say Whiting and Boyd. To increase the longevity of your silk pillow covers, make sure you're using proper gentle products meant for the delicate material.
In fact, the duo adds: "Unless you have rips or other damages to the fabric, there isn't a need to replace them."
Insider's takeaway
Silk is a material that requires delicate care and that applies to pillowcases made from the luxurious material. It's best to handwash with a gentle cleanser weekly, though in a pinch, you can toss them into the machine. As long as you are not washing them with hot water, putting them in the dryer, ironing, or bleaching, silk pillowcases will last (practically) forever.