Quick Answer
Wash silk nightgowns and sleepshirts by hand or on a gentle machine cycle with cool water and a mild detergent, then air-dry flat away from direct sunlight.
Why Silk Needs Special Care
Silk is a natural protein fiber that can weaken, yellow, or lose its luster when exposed to harsh detergents, high heat, or agitation. Even a gentle cycle with the wrong product can cause damage. Understanding how to care for silk nightgowns and sleepshirts preserves their soft feel and beautiful drape.
Sustainable Luxury Options
Some sleepshirts, like the ZIMMERLI Sustainable Luxury Sleepshirt with short sleeves in shell pink, use lyocell made from eucalyptus instead of silk. Lyocell is also delicate and benefits from similar cool-water, low-heat care. Always check the care label first, as fabric blends may have different instructions.
Step-by-Step Care Instructions
- Check the Care Label: Always read the garment's care label first. Some silk items may be labeled 'dry clean only' while others can be hand washed or machine washed on a gentle cycle. Ignore the care label and you risk shrinkage or damage.
- Hand Wash or Use Gentle Machine Cycle: Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water (below 30°C / 85°F) and add a mild detergent made for silk or delicates. Submerge the nightgown and gently swish it for 3-5 minutes. For machine washing, place the garment in a mesh lingerie bag and select the delicate cycle with cool water. Never wring or twist wet silk—this breaks the fibers and causes wrinkles.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean cool water. Swish the garment gently to remove all detergent. Repeat until no suds remain. Residual detergent can cause yellowing over time.
- Dry Flat Away from Heat and Sun: Lay the damp nightgown flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel to absorb excess moisture, then unroll and reshape the garment on a drying rack or a fresh towel. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from radiators or heaters. Hanging silk can stretch it out of shape; heat and sun can fade or weaken the fabric.
- Iron on Low Heat (Optional): If the sleepshirt needs pressing, use a cool iron (silk setting) and iron while the garment is still slightly damp. Place a thin cloth between the iron and the silk to protect it. A hot iron can scorch silk permanently—always test on an inconspicuous area first.
- Store Properly: Fold silk nightgowns and sleepshirts and store them in a cool, dry drawer or on a padded hanger. Avoid plastic bags or direct contact with cedar or mothballs, which can damage the fibers. Folding prevents creases and stress on the shoulders from hanging.
Product Facts
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Sustainable Luxury | Sleepshirt kurzarm - shell pink: This sleepshirt is made from 100% lyocell derived from eucalyptus, which is breathable and climate-regulating at night. Lyocell requires similar gentle care to silk, so the same washing and drying steps apply, making it easy to care for multiple delicate fabrics.
Sustainable Luxury | Sleepshirt kurzarm - shell pink
