Silk, Cotton & Ramie Care Guide
About the fibres
Silk
A natural protein fibre with a smooth surface and subtle lustre derived from mulberry worms. It is strong yet delicate, and sensitive to heat, abrasion and harsh detergents.
Cotton
A breathable plant fibre with a soft, familiar touch. High-quality cotton keeps its shape and surface well when washed gently and not over-dried.
Ramie
A bast fibre related to linen. Naturally cool, with a slightly crisp handle and beautiful drape once broken in. It can crease easily, but responds well to steam and pressing.
Rule of thumb
- Wash only when needed; air garments between wears.
- Close zips, loosen buttons and turn inside out before washing.
- Wash similar colours together; avoid overloading the machine.
- Never use bleach; avoid harsh stain removers and fabric softeners.
Wash & Care
Between wears
- Hang on a wide, padded hanger to allow creases to fall out naturally.
- Air briefly away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Hand washing (preferred for delicate or printed silk)
- Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of silk or wool detergent.
- Submerge the garment and move it gently; do not rub, twist or wring.
- Soak for a few minutes, then rinse in cool water until clear.
- Press out excess water with your hands, then roll in a towel to absorb more moisture.
Dry cleaning
Recommended for structured silk pieces, garments with interlinings, and items labelled “Dry clean only”
Drying
- Lay flat on a towel or hang to dry on a padded hanger, out of direct sunlight.
- Do not tumble dry.
Steaming & ironing
- Use a handheld steamer on a low setting from the inside, allowing the steam to fall through the fabric.
- If ironing, use a low silk setting, press from the reverse with a pressing cloth, and avoid direct contact with prints or embellishments.
Washing
High-quality cotton shirting and lighter pieces:
- Machine wash on a gentle or standard cycle in cool or lukewarm water.
- Use a mild liquid detergent; avoid brighteners for dark colours.
Heavier cotton (e.g. structured shirts, some trousers):
- A slightly warmer wash can be used if the care label permits.
- Turn inside out to reduce surface abrasion.
Drying
For best results, reshape and air dry:
- Shake out and smooth seams, then hang or lay flat.
- Avoid high-heat tumble drying, which can cause shrinkage and dull the surface.
Steaming & ironing
- Steam to remove creases and restore shape.
- Iron on a cotton setting from the inside or with a pressing cloth, especially on dark colours to avoid sheen.
Washing
Treat ramie as you would a fine linen:
- Machine wash on a gentle cycle in cool or lukewarm water.
- Use a mild detergent; avoid overfilling the drum to limit creasing.
- Turn garments inside out, especially if printed or blended with silk.
Drying
Remove promptly from the machine to prevent hard creases setting in. Smooth by hand, reshape seams and hems, then:
- Hang to dry on a broad hanger, or
- Lay flat for more delicate constructions.
- Keep away from direct, intense sunlight for prolonged periods.
Steaming & ironing
- Ramie responds well to steam. Use a steamer to soften creases and enhance drape.
- If ironing, use a medium heat setting with steam, press from the reverse, and lift the iron rather than dragging it.
Stain care
- Act quickly: blot gently with a clean, white cloth; do not rub.
- For silk, avoid hot water and aggressive stain removers.
- For cotton and ramie, lightly pre-treat with diluted detergent on the reverse of the fabric, then wash according to the care instructions.
- For complex or persistent stains, a trusted professional cleaner is the safest option. Always mention the fibre content.
Storage
Silk
- Hang blouses and dresses on padded hangers; avoid wire hangers that can mark the shoulders.
- For long-term storage, place in breathable garment bags, away from light and moisture.
Cotton & Ramie
- Fold heavier or more structured pieces to prevent stretching.
- Store in a cool, dry place with good airflow; avoid over-stacking to minimise deep creases.