Quick Answer
Hand wash your silk lingerie and loungewear in cold water with a gentle silk detergent, then air dry flat away from direct heat and sunlight.
Why Silk Needs Special Care
Silk is a natural protein fiber that is delicate and can be damaged by harsh detergents, hot water, and high heat. Proper care preserves its softness, sheen, and elasticity, especially for pieces with stretch content like the Lombard Street Silk Brazilian Brief (95% silk, 5% elastane).
Machine washing and drying can cause silk to fade, lose shape, or develop snags. Hand washing is the safest method for all silk lingerie and loungewear.
How to Handle Different Fabrics
While most silk pieces are 100% silk or a silk blend, some combine silk with other materials like mesh or lace. The Iris Bikini has a silk satin front and sheer stretch mesh back, so avoid twisting or wringing the mesh to prevent tearing. The Sanika Silk Romper features delicate paisley embroidery on mesh; treat it gently to protect the embroidery.
Always check the care label first, as some silk items may be labeled as dry clean only.
Step-by-Step Silk Care Routine
- Prepare a Cold-Water Bath: Fill a clean basin or sink with cool water and add a small amount of a gentle silk-specific detergent. Swirl to mix. Avoid regular laundry detergent, which can strip silk of its natural oils. Checkpoint: Water should feel cool to the touch, not warm or hot.
- Submerge and Gently Swish: Place your silk piece in the water and gently agitate it with your hands. Do not rub, twist, or wring. For a silk romper or Brazilian brief, let it soak for 3–5 minutes, then swish again. Common mistake: Scrubbing or twisting can damage the fibers and cause permanent wrinkles.
- Rinse Thoroughly in Cool Water: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with fresh cool water. Gently press the silk to release suds, repeating until all detergent is gone. Avoid running water directly onto the fabric. Empty
- Remove Excess Water Without Wringing: Lift the wet garment out of the water and gently squeeze (do not twist) to remove excess water. Roll the piece in a clean, dry towel to absorb more moisture. Checkpoint: Never wring silk; it can break the fibers and ruin the shape.
- Air Dry Flat Away from Heat and Sun: Lay the silk piece flat on a drying rack or clean towel, reshaping it to its original dimensions. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from radiators or heaters. Do not hang silk lingerie, as the weight of wet fabric can stretch it out of shape. Common mistake: Hanging wet silk can cause the straps or waistband to lose elasticity.
- Store Silk Properly Between Wears: Once completely dry, fold silk items and store them in a cool, dry drawer or on a shelf. Avoid hanging silk lingerie for long periods, as it can stretch. Use a breathable fabric bag for travel. Empty
Product Care Notes
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Lombard Street Silk Brazilian Brief: Made of 95% silk and 5% elastane for a touch of stretch. The elastane content means gentle handling is especially important to maintain the stretch and fit over time.
Lombard Street Silk Brazilian Brief
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Iris Bikini: Silk satin front, sheer stretch mesh back with delicate ruching. The mesh back requires extra care during washing to avoid snagging or tearing.
Iris Bikini
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Sanika Silk Romper: Crafted with Italian mesh, lace, and silk for special occasions. The combination of delicate materials means this romper benefits from the gentlest hand-wash method to preserve the embroidery and lace.
