Silk blouse cleaning in Tomball, TX

Why silk blouses and shirts need careful cleaning

Silk is a protein fiber, strong when dry and noticeably weaker when wet. Water can leave rings, and many silk dyes bleed, so a light blouse with dark trim can run. Rubbing a wet spot can leave a pale, roughened patch where the surface fibers have been broken. Perspiration and deodorant break silk down, yellowing it and leaving the underarm area thin and discolored. Perfume and hairspray can leave marks of their own. Heat is another risk, since a hot iron can scorch silk or put a shine on it. Charmeuse, crepe de chine, chiffon and habotai each handle differently, and a blouse may also have a lining or delicate covered buttons.

Reading the care label

Silk labels commonly say Dry clean. That often reflects the dye and finish rather than the fiber alone, so some plain silks survive careful hand washing. Dry clean only tends to appear on structured or richly dyed silk, where water will likely spot or bleed. Some labels say Washable silk or Hand wash cold. In that case use cold water and mild detergent, never wring, and dry it out of the sun.

Before you bring them in

• Tell the counter about any perfume, deodorant or sweat marks, since they can set with time.
• Do not dab a fresh spill with water or club soda first, which can leave a ring on silk.
• Point out pulls or snags in the weave so they are not caught again.
• Check small covered or pearl buttons and mention any that feel loose.

Care between cleanings

• Put on perfume and hairspray before you dress, and let deodorant dry fully first.
• Hang silk on a padded hanger, away from direct sunlight, which fades it.
• If it needs touching up, steam lightly or iron on low heat from the reverse side.
• Clean silk after a few wears, and sooner in hot weather, since sweat damages the fiber.