How do I wash a silk pillowcase?

There’s nothing quite like resting your head on a silk pillowcase. It’s cool, soft, and let’s be honest, a little bit of luxury that makes bedtime feel nicer. But silk is a delicate fabric, and without the right care, it can lose its sheen. That’s why knowing how to properly wash silk pillowcases is essential if you want them to last. So, how do you keep your pillowcases looking fresh? Let’s talk it through.

Why bother washing it anyway?

Silk doesn’t cling to oils and sweat the way cotton does. That’s partly why people love it. Still, night after night, your pillowcase picks up a mix of things—a bit of natural oil from your skin, maybe residue from your hair products, plus the usual dust floating around. Over time, that build-up can dull the fabric and make it feel less special.

Washing silk is really about preserving the fabric. Proper care keeps the fibres smooth and helps them resist wear. And honestly, nothing beats the feeling of sliding into freshly cleaned silk bedding.

Can I put a silk pillowcase in the washing machine?

Yes, you can machine wash silk pillowcases carefully. High-quality ones are durable enough if you use the right settings. Always stick to a delicate cycle with cold water or cool water (30°C/85°F at most). Place the silk pillowcase inside a laundry wash bag or mesh wash bag to prevent any snagging against other clothes.

Detergent or fabric softener makes a difference, too. A gentle laundry detergent or mild detergent like the Drowsy Deep Shine Silk Mask Detergent is best. Avoid bleach, stain removers, or anything too harsh. If you do need to remove stains from silk, spot treat gently with a few drops of diluted soap instead of scrubbing. And remember: never tumble dry. Just take it out right after the wash so it doesn’t crease up.

Is hand washing better?

Hand washing is definitely kinder. If you can, hand-wash silk pillowcases in a basin with cool water and a few drops of detergent. Swirl them around lightly—don’t scrub—then rinse until the water runs clear. When you’re done, gently squeeze out the excess water. Never wring, because that can damage the silk fibre.

Lay the pillowcase flat on a towel to dry in the shade. Sunlight can fade colours, and dryers are too harsh. Honestly, hand washing takes a bit more time, but it’s the safest way to wash your silk if you want it to last.

How often should I wash a silk pillowcase?

Silk doesn’t trap dirt the way cotton does, so you don’t have to wash it every couple of days. Once a week works for most people, though if you use a lot of hair products, every three to four days is better. If silk pillowcases accidents happen—spills, makeup, or even sweat after a hot night—just wash right away.

Rotating pillowcases also helps. When you store silk pillowcases between uses, keep them in a drawer or even a breathable garment bag so they stay dust-free.

Drying and ironing tips

Always air-dry silk. Lay it flat on a towel or drying rack, and keep it away from direct sunlight or radiators (heat and UV rays can weaken the fibres and fade the colour). Be patient here; silk takes a little longer to dry naturally, but it’s worth it to protect the fabric.

If you need to iron silk, use the lowest heat setting possible and place a pressing cloth between the fabric and the iron. This acts like a buffer, reducing the risk of scorching or leaving marks. A handheld steamer also freshens silk in seconds and helps release creases without direct contact. Just don’t hold it too close—a little distance works best.

Tips to prolong the life of your silk pillowcase

A little care goes a long way in keeping silk looking beautiful:

• Wash your face before bed to cut down on oil transfer.

• Store spare pillowcases in a cool, dry place, preferably inside a breathable fabric bag

• Handle the fabric gently when putting on or removing it from your pillow

If you’re washing other items like silk sheets or silk bedding, follow the same rules: cool water, mild detergent, and no dryer.

Why Drowsy silk pillowcases stand out

Not all silk is equal. Drowsy’s pillowcases are made from 22 momme mulberry silk, considered the highest quality silk, thanks to its durability and luxurious feel. The result is a pillowcase that feels indulgent but still holds up to regular washing if you’re careful. Plus, they come in a range of colours, from subtle neutrals to bolder tones. Pair them with your silk eye masks or mix shades to match your mood—it’s part of the fun!