Scarf Care

Taking care of your handwoven scarf will keep it looking great. In general, avoid contact with sharp objects, zippers, and Velcro.

When it is time for your scarf to have a bath, here is what to do:

In a clean basin, pour a medium coin-sized dollop of baby shampoo for silk scarves (or a dollop of baby shampoo and a dollop of hair condition for silk/wool/mohair scarves). Do not use dish detergent or bleach.

Fill the basin with warm water, swishing to distribute the shampoo solution. Place your scarf into the sudsy water, gently pushing to submerge, then let it soak for about 20 minutes. Be aware the water may become coloured; this is expected.

Scoop the scarf out of the basin and gently squeeze in your hands. Drain the basin, rinsing all suds away. Don’t run the water directly on your handwoven scarf. Fill the basin with fresh warm water and lower the scarf into it, gently moving it around to release any further suds. Do not agitate your scarf, as this can cause pilling or a felting effect (with wool blends). For hand dyed scarves, expect the water to be coloured from excess pigment; do not repeat multiple rinses, as this will fade your scarf quickly. One brief 2-minute rinse is all that is needed.

Once more, scoop the scarf in your hands and gently squeeze to remove excess water. Place the scarf flat on a generous-sized towel or blanket, roll the towel, and wait for 20 minutes. This will help remove more water from the scarf.

Unroll the towel, pick up and gently shake the scarf to release any major wrinkles, and then place on another towel on a flat surface, or drape over a clean dowel or shower curtain rod, to air dry naturally.

When your handwoven is dry, press with your iron on silk setting. Hang on a padded hanger or fold gently in your drawer when storing. Enjoy your handwoven scarf!