Silk

Silk is a type of natural fiber that originates from the silk worm as it constructs a cocoon. The length of individual silk strands can be quite long. In some cases, individual strands can reach more than one mile. Silk is actually the only filament fiber occurring in nature that is used in the production of cloth.

One of the most important things to understand about silk is that it does have a strong tendency to fade when placed in sunlight. Both direct as well as indirect sunlight can result in the fading of silk fabrics. It should also be noted that the presence of sunlight on silk can lead to the degradation of the fiber. Over time this can result in serious weakening of the fiber.

White silks are somewhat different from silks that have been dyed so that it will have a vibrant hue. White silks do not fade as is the case with brightly colored fabrics but they do yellow with age. Silk that was originally white and has since yellowed with age is said to have a natural patina. When white silk is exposed to light the yellowing process may be accelerated.

While silk is not as sensitive to acid, it must be pointed out that silk can nevertheless be harmed by chemicals that are alkaline in nature. Due to the fact that silk is a protein fiber, it can be completed dissolved by the use of chlorine bleach. Therefore, it is imperative that bleach never be used on any type of silk.

Urine can also damage silk as it will convert to alkaline over time. When urine comes into contact with silk, it should be removed as soon as possible or neutralized in order to discourage any damage that might otherwise be long-term.

Cleaning Silk

Silk is actually cleanable; although the opposite is frequently considered to be the case. In most cases silk can be dry-cleaned or wet cleaned. Testing is imperative before any type of cleaning is applied; however. This is especially important if the fabric contains numerous colors or has any type of surface finish. For example, silk that has a moiré finish cannot be wet cleaned and must be dry-cleaned only.

Spot Cleaning with Silk

Spotting can present a problem for silk fabrics. The main reason that spotting silk fabric can be challenging is the fact that silk does tend to ring. The silk gum or sericin is the largest factor that causes ringing in silk fabrics. Silk gum can be actually drawn in and will then dry along the outside edges of the area that has been spotted. This can leave a ring that is dark colored. The best way to prevent this type of problem is to feather around the spot, moving from seam to seam.

Caring for Silk

When silk is used on cushions, the cushions should be reversed on a routine basis. This method will help to make any fading or oxidation that may occur from being as noticeable. It is critical to point out that turning sofa or chair cushions does nothing to reduce the problem of fading or yellowing; however, when the fabrics do fade they will be less noticeable if all the cushions are turned regularly.

Taking care to clean silk fabrics on a routine basis can also help to prevent damage which may be caused by carpet beetles. These pests are small; however, when they infest silk fabrics they can quickly result in large problems. Cleaning on a regular basis can help to save the life of the fabric.

A topical protective treatment can help to extend the life of silk as it reduces the chances of the fabric ringing.

While silk is commonly thought of as being delicate, consumers can enjoy it for many years when it is cared for in a proper fashion. The luster and soft hand of silk have made it popular for thousands of years. Although numerous attempts have been made to duplicate silk, and some have come close, there has never truly been a product that was able to duplicate silk completely. Proper care can ensure that silk fabric will enjoyed for many more years to come.