You’re probably washing your silk pillowcases wrong — here’s how to fix it
14th Apr 2026
Silk pillowcases are the ultimate indulgence: soft, luxe, gentle on your skin and hair.
But looking after them is a little different to your regular cotton pillowcases. If you’ve been chucking your Beautysilks into the wash along with the rest of your linens, you’re not alone. A few simple tweaks to your laundry routine can make all the difference.
With the right care, they’ll stay smooth, shiny, and beautiful for years to come.
Let’s deep dive into how to actually care for your silk pillowcases, the Canningvale way: no fuss, just results.
Why is washing silk different?
Silk is a natural protein fibre, think of it like your hair. It’s strong, but delicate. Harsh detergents, high heat, and rough washing can all damage the integrity of the fabric. We’re talking dullness, weakened fibres, or even shrinkage (no thanks!). But with the right approach, it’s easy to keep them silky-smooth and looking brand new.
Here’s how…
How should I wash my silk pillowcases?
Here’s your no-fuss guide to keeping your Beautysilks pillowcases in tip-top condition:
1. Use the right detergent
First things first: ditch the harsh supermarket stuff. Regular laundry detergent can be too alkaline for silk, stripping it of its softness and sheen.
2. Cold water only, please!
Hot water = bad news for silk. It can cause the fibres to tighten and lose that dreamy smoothness. Always wash in cold water (whether by hand or on a delicate cycle in your machine)
3. Hand washing is best (but not essential)
If you’ve got time, hand washing your pillowcases is the gold standard. Use a small amount of our Signature Laundry Liquid, swirl gently for a few minutes, then rinse in cold water. No scrubbing, no twist. Be gentle.
Short on time (or just not a hand washer)? Pop them into a mesh laundry bag and use the delicates setting on your washing machine. Just remember: cold water, gentle cycle, minimal spin.
4. Avoid bleach, enzymes, or fabric softeners
These can damage silk fibres. With Beautysilks, less is more. Our Signature Laundry Liquid has everything you need (and nothing you don’t).
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Can I tumble dry my silk pillowcases?
Let us stop you right there. Never tumble dry any silk (bedding, clothes, etc) — unless you’re going for the “crispy paper” look (please don’t!).
Instead, lay them flat on a clean towel, reshape gently, and let them air dry away from direct sunlight: no pegs, no wringing, no drama.
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How often should I wash my silk pillowcases?
We recommend washing your pillowcases — silk included — once a week.
Yes, silk is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to things like dust mites and mould (which is part of what makes Beautysilks so dreamy). It doesn’t cling to grime the way other fabrics can — true — but it’s still coming into contact with your face, hair, and skin oils every single night.
Over time, product buildup, sweat, and natural oils can transfer onto the fabric, which not only dulls that silky sheen but can also mess with your skin. Think clogged pores, breakouts, or irritation. Not exactly the “beauty sleep” you had in mind.
Regular washing helps keep your pillowcase fresh, smooth, and clean — so your skin stays clear, your hair stays glossy, and your bedroom stays bougie.
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Bonus tip: Ironing silk? Here’s how
Want that ultra-smooth look? You can iron silk, but only on the lowest heat setting and preferably while the fabric is still slightly damp. Always use a pressing cloth (or just a clean cotton t-shirt) between the iron and your silk to avoid scorching or shine marks.
The good news? Because Beautysilks are so cleverly designed, with silk on one side (for all the wrinkle and frizz-reducing benefits) and cotton on the other (so they actually stay on your bed), you can simply iron your Beautysilks pillowcases on the cotton side only. Too easy.
Or better yet, skip the iron and embrace the natural luxe drape. Effortlessly chic.
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The takeaway?
Silk may seem like a diva in the laundry department, but with a little TLC and these simple tips, it’ll reward you with glossier hair, clearer skin, and that bougie bedroom vibe we all secretly (or not so secretly) live for.
And if you’re curious about why sleeping on silk is such a game-changer, we’ve got you covered:
Read: Why silk pillowcases are a game-changer for your skin and hair