How to hand-wash silk, chiffon and delicate clothes without pilling or losing shape

Quick answer: hand-wash silk, chiffon and delicates in cool water, dissolve the detergent first, soak briefly, squeeze gently and never twist, press out water with a towel instead of wringing, then dry in the shade. Always check the care label first.

Read the care label

Symbol	Meaning
Tub with a hand	Hand wash only
Tub with 30	Wash at 30°C maximum
Crossed-out tub	Do not wash; dry clean
Square with crossed-out circle	Do not tumble dry

Hand-washing delicates step by step

1. Turn garments inside out. Fasten buttons and zips.
2. Dissolve detergent in a basin of cool water before adding clothes; don’t pour it straight onto fabric.
3. Soak for about 5–10 minutes, no longer.
4. Gently squeeze collars and underarms. Don’t scrub or twist.
5. Rinse 2–3 times in cool water.
6. Press out water: roll the garment in a dry towel and press gently. Don’t wring.

Drying and storing

• Dry in the shade where air moves. Harsh sun fades colours and weakens fibres.
• Tops: hang on rounded hangers to keep the shoulders. Stretchy items: dry flat.
• Iron on low with a thin cloth on top.
• Hang in the wardrobe rather than folding tightly.

Can you machine-wash them?

If the label allows, use a mesh laundry bag, the delicate programme, cool water and a low spin, and wash separately from jeans and items with metal zips.

Choosing a detergent for delicates

Choose a liquid detergent that dissolves and rinses easily, with softening ingredients and a moderate scent. A one-step wash-and-soften product saves a separate softener soak.

URA is a 6-in-1 laundry liquid with a gentle formula for everyday hand washing. It keeps clothes soft, with less pilling and better shape, and helps reduce fading over many washes. Three clear floral scents that are never harsh:

• Camellia & Freesia: elegant and gentle, good for shirts and workwear.
• Rose & Fresh Peach: sweet and fresh.
• Peony & Pear: luxurious and alluring.

URA comes in a 3L pouch; follow the dose on the pouch. For a small hand-wash basin, use less than a full machine dose.

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