While it is possible to put silk garments in the dryer it’s not without risks.
Silk is a delicate fabric that requires special care to keep it looking its best.
In this article we’ll look at the risks of putting silk in the dryer and provide some tips on how to keep your silk garments looking their best.
What Type of Silk Can Be Put in the Dryer?
The most common type of silk that can be put in the dryer is silk charmeuse.
This type of silk is incredibly lightweight and smooth and it is often used in clothing items such as blouses nightgowns and lingerie.
Silk charmeuse can also be used in bedding and draperies although it might not be as common as other fabrics.
The good news is that silk charmeuse is generally safe to put in the dryer as long as you use the right settings.
You should always use the lowest heat setting and you should never use an extended cycle.
Additionally using a dryer sheet can help protect the fabric and keep it from getting too wrinkled.
What Type of Silk Should Not Go in the Dryer?
Unfortunately not all types of silk can be put in the dryer.
Silk dupioni for example is a thick textured silk that is not suitable for the dryer.
This type of silk is often used for upholstery draperies and pillows and it should always be air dried to avoid damaging the fabric.
Other types of silk that should not be put in the dryer include silk crepe silk taffeta silk voile and silk organza.
All of these fabrics are delicate and should be handled with care.
If you’re unsure whether or not a fabric can be put in the dryer it’s always best to err on the side of caution and air dry it instead.
Why You Shouldn’t Put Silk in the Dryer
The main reason why you shouldn’t put silk in the dryer is that it can cause the fabric to break down and become damaged.
Silk is a fragile fabric and is more prone to damage than other fabrics like cotton.
The dryer’s heat and tumbling action can cause the silk to shrink fade pill or even tear.
In addition the dryer’s heat can affect the dyes used to color the fabric causing them to become dull or discolored.
Tips for Caring for Silk
The best way to care for silk is to hang it to dry.
This allows the fabric to dry naturally and avoids the risk of it being damaged in the dryer.
If you want your silk garments to last longer you should also be sure to follow the care instructions on the label.
When washing silk you should use a mild detergent and cold water.
You should also avoid using any fabric softeners as these can damage the fabric.
Additionally you should hang your garments on a hanger or line dry them rather than using a dryer.
Final Thoughts
The bottom line is that while it is possible to put silk in the dryer there are risks involved.
The heat and tumbling action of the dryer can cause the fabric to shrink fade pill and even tear.
For this reason it’s best to hang silk garments to dry after washing them.
Following the care instructions on the label is also a good way to ensure your silk garments stay looking their best.