The UNYA Silk Journal
How to Care for Mulberry Silk
Gentle washing, shade drying, cool ironing — the simple rituals that keep 22 momme mulberry silk beautiful for years.
Washing
Silk asks for gentleness, not effort. Hand wash in cold water with a mild, silk-safe detergent — or use your machine's delicate cold cycle with the piece inside a mesh laundry bag. Never use bleach, and never wring or twist the fabric; press the water out softly instead.
Drying
Lay your silk flat on a towel or hang it in the shade to air dry. Keep it away from direct sunlight, which can fade the shade, and away from the tumble dryer, whose heat breaks down the fibre. Silk dries surprisingly fast on its own.
Ironing and steaming
If a piece needs smoothing, steam it or iron on the lowest heat, always inside out. Never expose silk to high heat — it is a natural protein fibre, like hair, and deserves the same caution.
Everyday care
Rotate between shades if you own more than one set, and wash pillowcases every week or two, depending on your routine. Keep skincare fully absorbed before lying down to preserve the fabric's lustre. Scrunchies ask for very little — an occasional gentle wash keeps them fresh.
Storage and travel
Store silk clean, dry and folded, away from prolonged direct sun. For travel, the signature UNYA box — or any breathable pouch — protects masks and scrunchies beautifully; avoid sealing silk in plastic for long periods.
Why gentle care pays back
Treated this way, 22 momme mulberry silk keeps its softness, sheen and strength for years — it is dense enough to be washed regularly without thinning. Treat your silk with love, and it will stay beautiful for years.
Silk care, answered
Yes — use the delicate cold cycle with a mesh laundry bag and a mild, silk-safe detergent. Hand washing in cold water is gentler still. Never bleach, wring or tumble dry.
Every one to two weeks suits most routines. Silk absorbs less moisture and product than cotton, so it stays fresher between washes.
Yes — on the lowest heat, always inside out, or use a steamer. High heat damages the fibre permanently, so keep the setting cool.
A mild detergent formulated for silk or delicates. Avoid bleach, brighteners and enzymes — they attack the protein fibre that gives silk its softness and shine.