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Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,954
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

If a silk shirt says "dry clean only" can you still wash it by hand?

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I am curious because I see that some companies say it is ok to machine wash, some say hand wash, and some say dry clean only. Why can't you hand wash all silk shirts?
Honored Contributor
Posts: 11,415
Registered: ‎03-12-2010

Re: If a silk shirt says "dry clean only" can you still wash it by hand?

[ Edited ]

As I understand it, it's not the issue with the silk, per se.

It has more to do with the particular type of silk, its density, its weave, the construction of the garment, whether it's colorfast, and such.  Ironing silk is not easy, either, particularly if there is some detail to the garment.

 

Even a simple boyfriend-style silk shirt might not be colorfast.  It used to be that you could dip a portion into water, but with so many items being worn out (not tucked in) that doesn't really work anymore.

[was Homegirl] Love to be home . . . thus the screen name. Joined 2003.
Respected Contributor
Posts: 2,193
Registered: ‎03-18-2015

Re: If a silk shirt says "dry clean only" can you still wash it by hand?

Personally, I'd stick to the instructions.

"Never water yourself down just because someone can't handle you 100% proof."
Honored Contributor
Posts: 8,420
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: If a silk shirt says "dry clean only" can you still wash it by hand?

I learned through experience that sometimes the interfacing puckers/shrinks when you hand wash a silk blouse.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 16,230
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: If a silk shirt says "dry clean only" can you still wash it by hand?

I think the sad answer is sometimes, but you'll never know until you try which mans that if you love the blouse, I'd have it cleaned.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 18,767
Registered: ‎03-13-2010

Re: If a silk shirt says "dry clean only" can you still wash it by hand?

Silk can shrink........it's also a bear to iron

♥Surface of the Sun♥
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Honored Contributor
Posts: 34,519
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: If a silk shirt says "dry clean only" can you still wash it by hand?

@Squirrel Lover

My experience is that REAL SILK can change color over time. It feels heavenly to wear, but do not get water on it intentionally.

Dry cleaning, especially if this is what the tag reads, is the only safe plan.

~Have a Kind Heart, Fierce Mind, Brave Spirit~
Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 7,645
Registered: ‎03-28-2015

Re: If a silk shirt says "dry clean only" can you still wash it by hand?

I wouldn't risk it.....

Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,138
Registered: ‎05-20-2011

Re: If a silk shirt says "dry clean only" can you still wash it by hand?

I never had good luck trying to launder silk. I hand washed and it never looked nice again. I wouldn't risk it.

Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,954
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

Re: If a silk shirt says "dry clean only" can you still wash it by hand?

Well, thank you for your responses. I won't buy a silk shirt then! That is what I thought. Looks nice but is not practical. Thank you. I will stick with cotton button downs!