Quick answer

Silk pajamas pill and fade mainly due to friction, harsh detergents, and improper washing. To prevent this, wash your silk sleepwear in cold water on a gentle cycle, use a mild silk-specific detergent, and air dry away from direct sunlight. For Eberjey's washable mulberry silk sets, follow these steps to maintain their color and smooth texture.

Why Silk Pajamas Pill

Pilling occurs when short fibers on the fabric surface tangle into small balls. For silk, this usually happens because of friction from rubbing against bedding, other clothing, or even the washing machine drum. Lower-quality silk or blends are more prone, but even 100% mulberry silk can pill if handled roughly. Eberjey's washable silk uses bluesign®-certified processes and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 verified fabric, which reduces the risk but does not eliminate it entirely.

Why Silk Pajamas Fade

Fading is typically caused by exposure to harsh chemicals in regular laundry detergents, bleach, or prolonged sunlight. Silk fibers are protein-based and sensitive to alkaline substances and UV rays. Even washable silk needs gentle care. Eberjey's mulberry silk is processed without harmful chemicals, but that doesn't make it immune to fading if you use the wrong detergent or leave it in direct sun while drying.

How to Prevent Pilling and Fading

Turn your silk pajamas inside out before washing to reduce surface friction. Use a mesh laundry bag for extra protection. Wash in cold water on a delicate cycle with a mild, pH-neutral detergent formulated for silk. Never use fabric softener or bleach. Air dry flat or hang in the shade—never in direct sunlight. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove while still slightly damp. For Eberjey's washable silk lace cami and short set or the Inez printed long PJ set, these steps help preserve both the fabric's softness and the print's vibrancy.

What to Do If Pilling or Fading Already Happened

If pilling has already occurred, you can gently remove pills with a fabric shaver designed for delicate fabrics. Test on an inconspicuous area first. For fading, there is no reliable way to restore original color, but you can prevent further damage by switching to proper care immediately. If the fading is uneven or the fabric feels thin, it may be time to replace the set. Eberjey's washable silk is designed for longevity, but no garment lasts forever with heavy wear.

Diagnosis at a glance

  • Symptom: Small fabric balls (pills) appear on silk pajamas after a few washes or wears. Pilling is a sign of fiber friction, not necessarily poor quality.
  • Likely cause: Washing with regular detergent, using hot water, or drying in direct sunlight. Harsh chemicals and UV light damage silk fibers over time.
  • Corrective action: Switch to cold water, gentle cycle, silk-safe detergent, and air dry in shade. Use a fabric shaver for existing pills. These steps can stop further damage and extend garment life.
  • When to replace: If fabric feels thin, pills are extensive, or color is unevenly faded after proper care. At this point, the silk has degraded beyond repair and a new set is the better option.

Product spotlight

  • Washable Silk Lace Cami & Short Set: Soft, dusky Thistle purple gives this lace-trimmed silk cami-and-short set a delicate, romantic touch. Made from 100% mulberry silk, produced using bluesign®-certified processes and verified by OEKO-TEX®. This set's high-quality mulberry silk and certified processing reduce the likelihood of pilling and fading when cared for properly, making it a reliable choice for everyday wear.