Yes, you can wash silk scrunchies, but because silk is a delicate fabric, it requires careful handling to maintain its quality, softness, and smoothness. Washing silk scrunchies properly not only keeps them clean but also extends their lifespan, so they continue to protect your hair without losing their luxurious feel. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wash silk scrunchies and keep them in great condition.
1. Use a Gentle Hand Wash Method
For best results, hand washing is the safest way to clean silk scrunchies. Here’s how:
- Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can cause silk to shrink or lose its softness.
- Add a mild detergent or silk-specific cleaner. A gentle soap, baby shampoo, or a detergent made specifically for silk or delicates will work best. Avoid bleach, harsh chemicals, or strong detergents, which can damage silk.
- Submerge the scrunchies in the water and gently swirl them around. Allow the scrunchies to soak for a few minutes to loosen any dirt or oils.
- Gently massage the fabric to lift any stains or residue, being careful not to scrub, wring, or twist the scrunchies, as this can damage the fibers.
2. Rinse Thoroughly with Cool Water
After soaking and lightly washing, rinse your silk scrunchies:
- Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with fresh, cool water.
- Rinse the scrunchies by gently swishing them in the water until all soap is removed. Be thorough, as leftover detergent can cause silk to stiffen.
- Repeat the rinse if necessary to ensure no soapy residue remains, which could otherwise cause stiffness or dullness in the silk.
3. Avoid Wringing or Twisting
Silk is a delicate fabric that can stretch or lose its shape if twisted or wrung out:
- To remove excess water, gently press the scrunchies against the side of the basin. Avoid wringing them, as this can distort the fabric and weaken the elastic.
- Lay the scrunchies on a soft towel and gently roll them up to absorb any remaining moisture. Again, don’t twist or apply heavy pressure, as this can harm the fibers.
4. Dry Flat on a Towel
Air drying is the best way to dry silk scrunchies. Direct heat from dryers or sunlight can damage silk, causing it to shrink or fade:
- Lay the scrunchies flat on a clean, dry towel in a shaded area. This helps the scrunchies dry without losing their shape or softness.
- Avoid hanging them, as the weight of the water can stretch the fabric and elastic.
- Let them air dry completely before use or storage. It might take a few hours but drying them this way keeps the silk intact and soft.
5. Optional: Use a Silk-Softening Solution
If you want to enhance the softness of your silk scrunchies:
- Consider adding a silk conditioner or fabric softener made specifically for delicate fabrics to your rinse water.
- Follow the same rinsing process, then rinse again with cool water to ensure no conditioner residue is left behind.
Can You Machine Wash Silk Scrunchies?
While hand washing is ideal, you can machine wash silk scrunchies if you take extra precautions:
- Use a laundry bag: Place the scrunchies in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from getting caught or twisted.
- Select a delicate cycle: Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water, which is less likely to damage the fabric.
- Choose a mild detergent: Stick to a detergent designed for delicates or one without harsh chemicals.
- Avoid spin cycles and dryers: Once washed, remove the scrunchies immediately to prevent wrinkling and avoid using the dryer.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Silk Scrunchies
- Limit Washing Frequency: Silk doesn’t need frequent washing; a rinse every few weeks or spot cleaning can help extend their life.
- Avoid Exposure to Oils and Perfumes: Oil, lotions, and perfume can stain or discolor silk, so be cautious when applying these products around your scrunchies.
- Store Properly: Store silk scrunchies in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight or excessive moisture, which can weaken the fibers over time.
Conclusion: Yes, You Can Wash Silk Scrunchies
With the right care, washing silk scrunchies can keep them looking and feeling luxurious. Hand washing in cool water with gentle soap, avoiding wringing, and air drying will help your scrunchies stay soft and intact for longer. Taking these steps preserves the fabric’s natural shine, smoothness, and elasticity, so your scrunchies continue to provide the best protection for your hair.