TAKE THE PLUNGE WITH YOUR INVESTMENT PIECE AND HAND-WASH YOUR HERMES SCARF

I’ve always been terrified of washing my Hermes scarves, especially since I’ve heard more horror stories than one could imagine.

Not only can color run, but the silk softens and looses its hand. It can be a very costly loss especially if you are emotionally attached to the item for sentimental reasons.

One of the biggest complaints of dry cleaning a silk scarf is the cost. Tie Crafters in New York City offers a competitive rate of $29 (plus shipping). They are still the best cleaners and the only one I would recommend for your scarves. In Chicago we tested two other local high end cleaners and while we were happier with the faster turn around time, the results were not as good. It’s also comforting to know that Tie Crafters works intimately with all of the Hermes boutiques in the US.

Recently I discovered The Laundress, a partnership of two fashion savvy soap mavens. Based in New York City and former Ralph Lauren and Chanel employees, you bet they understand luxurious fabrics. They claim to have developed an eco friendly formula that is safe on silk and actually enhances the color (without running). I haven’t actually tried the soap yet, but wondering if anyone else had? I’m not sure if I’m ready to take the plunge yet. Are you?

When purchasing an investment piece such as a silk Hermes scarf, one hopes that they’ll be able to sport it for more than one wear! Stains, spills, and mystery marks are never planned and always unwelcome, but luckily with The Laundress products they CAN be accommodated (on occasion).

The Laundress Product of Perfection

Unlike other delicate formulas, The Laundress Delicate Wash contains special enzymes that remove perspiration, oil, and buildup, while remaining safe on silks. Specially formulated with cleaning enhancers and color guard, it maintains the cleanliness and color saturation of your favorite garments.

Pretreat All Stains

Before laundering, treat any stains by applying The Laundress Stain Solutiondirectly to the problem area or wetting and working The Laundress Wash & Stain Bar into deep dirt areas.

Freshen Up Nicely

To remove persistent odors, mix ¼ cup of The Laundress Scented Vinegar with a sink full of tepid water and soak for up to 30 minutes. You may also apply a small amount of this deodorizing miracle product directly to the target area.

Give Your Hermes a Hand

Handwashing is the best and safest way to care for investment pieces. This will preserve the fabrics for as long as possible.

1. Fill a washbasin or sink with tepid water and add two capfuls or a squirt of The Laundress Delicate Wash.

2. Soak for at least 30 minutes.

3. Rinse well, running room temperature water over the item until the rinse water is no longer soapy.

4. Do not wring. Instead, press the delicate items against the sink or basin to remove the water.

Get Hung Up

Simply hang your hose to dry, or lay them flat on a drying rack. Don’t forget to spray with The Laundress Delicate Spray to keep them fresh and smelling sweet between wearing and washing.

Editorial: TheLaundress

 

4 thoughts

  1. I’ve handwashed my Hermes scarves for years with no bleeding issues, although I admit sometimes I can’t get a stain out completely. I do hate that the hand of the scarf is diminished after washing; I’ve tried using a bit of liquid starch in the final rinse but that really hasn’t made a helpful difference. I blot in a towel, hang to dry and iron while damp, being careful not to crush the handturned hem.

    I’ve never tried the Laundress Delicate wash, but I think I may! I do like their stain solution.

  2. I’ve machine washed some of my Hermes scarves, even though the tags state Dry Clean Only, and they survived; but I admit they lost some body.
    Tilly’s wrapped on handles can get pretty disgusting, and would get ruined from frequent washing.
    No Sacrifice Bags, Love Handles are what I now use to protect my handles, and they can be washed daily if desired.

  3. Hi,

    I tried ironing my vintage Sangles scarf -low heat, using a slightly damp white cotton cloth placed over. The result was that my scarf has green and red dye streaks showing on some of the white portions.

    I took it to the usual drycleaner which my Hermes store recommends (and the results are fine with my other Hermes scarf) but the streaks did not come out.

    I’m wondering about hand washing my scarf now.

    Also, the corner faded from red to orange, I think it may have been dipped in the swimming pool years ago and the chlorine may have worked the dye out in that corner over time. It’s 1985 or 1986.

    So … this scarf has some issues but I love to wear it as it has lovely memories.

    Any help would be appreciated, Thank You!

  4. I don’t care…scarves are to be worn (I wear a valuable antique Hermes one all winter around my neck & wash it in the machine…it’s shredding a little but I don’t care.
    Bought a new one in Paris a couple of years ago, made to be washed, not dry cleaned, and I wear it all the time. It’s a little thicker than the oldie but goodies I have that need dry cleaning, but, since it’s a shame to keep beauty in a box in the closet, better to wear,
    I don’t care.

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