The procedure to wash silk garments is : 

Preparation : Examine the garment for tears, holes, stains and foreign particles and give suitable treatment accordingly. 

Steeping : Steeping of silk is avoided due to its weak strength when wet. If the garment is heavily soiled, steeping can be done in lukewarm or cold water for very short time. 

Washing : Wash gently using kneading and squeezing method. In much soiled areas like neckline, elbow, cuffs etc. a gentle scrubbing with flat hand can be done. Extra soap water should be removed by gentle squeezing. 

Rinsing : Rinsing should be done in clear soft tap water, until soap is removed properly from the garments. Last rinse is given to silk by adding vinegar for increasing luster. 

Stiffening : Since silk is very soft and pliable, it requires a treatment of gum water to give stiffness, proper shape, body and shine. 

Drying : Coloured silk should be dried in shade and white silk in sunlight. All the garments should be properly ironed before they are completely dry. 

Ironing : Ironing of silk should be done at 300° F.