Wearing an elegant silk dress to a function, gathering, or party makes you feel and look like a movie lead. Silk dresses feel light and provide a luxurious sensation against your skin. But the key is to keep the fabric's quality, texture, and shine intact even after washing and ironing it multiple times. The good news is that it's completely possible to achieve that. By following some tips and taking proper care of your silk dress, you can ensure that it stays in excellent condition for a long time.
How to iron a silk dress?
To effectively iron your silk dress and preserve its shine and beauty, follow the steps below. These steps are recommended by professionals to avoid any potential damage to the delicate silk fabric.
1. Dampen the silk dress
Never attempt to iron a dry silk dress. Since silk is a natural fabric that can be sensitive to heat, it's important to prepare a spray bottle filled with water. Turn the dress inside out and lightly spray a moderate amount of water onto the fabric. Ensure that the dress is neither overly soaked nor completely dry; it should have a slightly damp feel.
2. Use an iron cloth as a protective layer
After dampening the silk dress, lay it flat on an ironing board and smooth out any wrinkles or folds. It's crucial to never directly iron silk-based products. Place a clean iron cloth, a towel, or a handkerchief over the dress to provide an additional protective barrier. This prevents direct contact between the iron's surface and the delicate silk fabric.
3. Set the iron to low heat
Adjust the iron's heat setting to the lowest possible temperature suitable for silk. Excessive heat can cause irreparable damage to the fabric, leading to loss of shine and beauty. It's better to start with a lower heat level and gradually increase it if necessary, but always err on the side of caution.
4. Iron gently and in sections
Begin ironing the silk dress in small sections, using smooth and gentle movements. Avoid leaving the iron in one spot for too long, as this can create shiny patches or even burn the fabric. Moreover, you should avoid dragging the iron on the silk dress vigorously. The best way to iron a silk dress is to place the iron on the creased area for a short time. Repeat the process if required before moving on to a different section.
5. Check the iron cloth frequently
Throughout the ironing process, regularly check the iron cloth to ensure it remains clean. If it becomes damp or accumulates wrinkles, replace it with a fresh one. This helps maintain the protective barrier and prevents any potential transfer of dirt or residue onto the silk dress.
Always remember to use a white iron cloth or towel while ironing a silk dress. This will reduce the chances of pigmentation and color transfer which can ruin the dress.
