Silk is extremely strong, but repeated exposure to the sun will weaken the fiber. Avoid using it for curtains, draperies or other home décor items when sunlight is pervasive.
Many silks can be hand washed using mild detergent and lukewarm water. Roll the fabric in a towel to absorb the excess water. Iron dry on a low setting. If you're unsure about washing silk, test a swatch first.
Pretreat silk yardage as you plan to care for the finished garment; many silks will shrink.
Structured silk garments and fragile fabrics should be dry-cleaned to prevent damage. Multicolor prints and bright colors may need to be dry-cleaned to prevent the dye from running.
Moths will attack silk so store clothing appropriately.
Never use chlorine bleach on silk--it will yellow the fiber.
