scarf storage and care
storing silk scarves
I’ve received a few questions in recent weeks about scarf storage, so thought it might be a good time to re-visit this topic.
In my experience, different types of scarves require different storage solutions. Above, I’ve found this 3-drawer clear(ish) storage unit (similar concept) is what works best for my silk scarves. It allows me to see what I have available, and allows enough air to circulate while protecting from dust and optimizes organization. The drawers are perfect for keeping scarves of the same size together. Those small round boxes on the upper right contain plissés, or pleated scarves, which should be stored rolled to maintain the pleats.
For my larger scarves, behold…The Scarf Condo!
The “Scarf Condo” for larger scarves
This is actually a hanging shoe storage unit, but works brilliantly for folded scarves. Again, I can easily see the “inventory,” and it’s a snap to fold and re-store scarves and keep orderly at the end of the day. Because many of my scarves contain wool and/or cashmere, I stash a cedar block in the back of each compartment to deter moths.
Care and cleaning:
- Silk scarves. Avoid wearing your printed silk scarves in the rain, as colors can run. Unless soiled or perspired heavily upon, most of the time all your silk scarves need is an overnight airing. Drape over a towel rack or clothes drying rack. According people whose advice I trust, silk twill scarves (even Hermés) can be hand-washed in cold water, line dried and pressed with a good iron on the lowest setting. Use a detergent for delicate items and a Shout Color Catcher sheet in the wash to prevent colors from bleeding. I haven’t tried this, with any of my silk twill scarves but will the next time one of them needs laundering. (I have hand washed the very delicate, sheer vintage Liberty scarf inherited from my Grandmother and it did just fine.) You can also dry clean, but beware that cleaners will usually press the rolled hems flat. You can use a steamer and roll hem between your fingers to restore the rounded shape. The plissè scarves however should only be dry cleaned, as water will flatten the pleats.
- Wool/cashmere/rayon/linen scarves or blends. I’m not going to lie; I wash these in a lingerie bag in the machine, gentle cycle, cold water. I use The Laundress New York Cashmere Wash and line dry over a laundry rack. If your scarf has delicate embroidery, beading, appliques or intricate fringe work, you may want to dry clean to maintain. Again, to deter moths be sure your wool and cashmere scarves are cleaned before storing away for the season, and store with cedar blocks. I’ve also heard that keeping in the freezer for a few days weeks kills moths and eggs, but have read conflicting assessments of how effective this is.
Do you have any scarf care tips and tricks? How do you store yours?
SCARVES WORTH COLLECTING…
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