Just as you might enjoy a relaxing bubble bath to pamper yourself, your new silk scarf deserves a little TLC, too! Not only is your new scarf a statement piece but it’s also meant to be a workhorse in your wardrobe. With proper care, it will remain vibrant and continue to stun years to come. From my fave washing technique to drying tips, I've got the deets on keeping your scarf so fresh and so clean clean.

First Washing: Handwashing  

I’m a handwash girl, scroll a bit for washing machine instructions.

• Salt and Vinegar: Fill the sink with warm water and add a 1/2 cup of vinegar and 1 teaspoon of salt. This potion helps set the dye from the reactive printing process and ensures a long-lasting vibrancy.
• Soak, Swish, and Scrunch: Dunk your scarf into the sink, swish it around, and scrunch the fabric to mimic the motions of a washing machine. The excess dye will start to come off the surface of the scarf and the water will change color; this is normal.
• Rinse & Repeat: Rinse your scarf until it runs clear. Then, fill the sink with water, add another 1/2 cup of vinegar and 1 teaspoon of salt, and give your scarf another bath and rinse cycle. 
• Dry Immediately: Once washed, immediately hang your scarf to dry to prevent wrinkles and color transfer. 

Protip: Lay out a towel and roll your scarf up, let it sit for 5 minutes, then hang it to dry. I like to think of this as par-drying 🤣 It helps your scarf dry faster and prevents it from dripping all over your floor. Ladies, this works wonders for bras, too.

First Wash: Laundry Machine 

This easy button method works excellently in top-loading washing machines. If you have a side loader you can’t fill with water like me; I recommend using the sink method above for your first few washes.

• Salt and Vinegar: Fill your machine with warm water, 1 cup of vinegar, and 2 teaspoons of salt dissolved in a full washing machine. This helps set the dye from the reactive printing process and ensures a long-lasting vibrancy. Note: If you can't fill your machine with water, you will want to do the first wash by hand. I've tried this step in a front-load washer, and it caused ink transfer and staining
• No Skimping: Resist the urge to use a reduced water cycle. A full machine is essential for washing away the excess ink sitting on top of your scarf and keeping it from adhering to it. 
• Dry Immediately: Don't let your scarf linger wet! Avoid leaving it wrinkled or folded after the first wash, as this can lead to color transfer if not thoroughly rinsed. See the protip above about using a towel 🙌🏻

Washes two - four(ish):

• Scrub a dub solo: Wash your new scarf separately from other laundry for the next few washes to protect the rest of your wardrobe. A bit of dye might still hang on to those luxurious natural fibers, which can stain other items in the wash. Each scarf is unique in how long it holds excess dye. Some scarves are fine after one wash, while others need a few more to be free and clear.
• Handle with Care: While your scarf was designed to last a lifetime, a little TLC will keep it looking brand new. Avoid harsh chemicals, excessive rubbing, or hot washes.

Subsequent Washes

Once you’re sure a new scarf no longer harbors excess pigment, you can put it through a regular wash cycle. You can toss it in the washing machine; however, I recommend putting it in a delicates bag to ensure it doesn’t get snagged on a zipper or other hazard. 

My Wash Routine

That being said, my favorite way to care for my silk scarves is to hand wash them. I do this in the sink, or if I have a big pile of dirty scarves, I put a big bucket in the bathtub. No matter the bath vessel, my secret weapon is Eucalan Delicate Wash. This isn’t a paid placement; I just love the stuff. A girlfriend introduced me to it many moons ago for washing bras, and extending it to my scarves was a no-brainer. A consideration: Eucalan contains lanolin, which might not work for everyone. 

• Bath time: Fill the sink or bucket with warm water, add Eucalan, swish to dissolve, add your scarf or scarves, and swish a bit more. 
• Hey Siri, set a timer for 15 minutes. Why yes, skipping this step has led to 2+ hour baths for my scarves—multiple times 🤦🏼‍♀️ Don’t fret if you do the same; they’ll be okay. 
• Roll ‘em up! My favorite feature of Eucalan is that no rinsing is required 🙌🏻 I give the scarves another quick swirl, pull one from the water, wrap it in a towel for a few minutes, and hang to dry. You can use the same towel to help dry several scarves. 

BTW, it's natural for your silk scarf to shrink slightly, especially after the first few washes. Shrinkage is part of the process that helps the fabric retain its shape and texture.