Care Guide
We design our pieces for longevity. With thoughtful care, natural fibers and natural dyes age beautifully, remaining part of a slow wardrobe for years.
Care Overview
Our garments are made from 100% silk charmeuse, chosen for its fluid drape, subtle sheen, and exceptional uptake of natural dyes. Most pieces are hand-dyed using botanical materials, while select color-ways are conventionally dyed. Care instructions vary slightly by dye process and are outlined below.
Hand washing is a gentle option for caring for Flora Prisma pieces at home. While our care tags note that traditional dry cleaning is not recommended, there is some nuance worth sharing.
Traditional dry cleaning relies on harsh chemical solvents that are not recommended for natural dyes (or the environment). However, some eco-friendly dry cleaners use wet cleaning, also called wet dry cleaning, which Flora Prisma has found to work beautifully on both our naturally dyed and conventionally dyed silk charmeuse.
Machine washing is also an option. Washing on a cold or cool gentle cycle with a mild, pH-neutral detergent, using a delicates bag, can be effective. Over time, however, machine washing may reduce the luster of silk charmeuse and gradually soften color.
These changes can be viewed as part of the natural wearing-in of a garment, or choose hand washing or wet dry cleaning to better preserve the sheen and richness of the fabric.
Caring for our Silk Charmeuse
Washing Naturally Dyed Silk Charmeuse
Naturally dyed silk benefits from the gentlest care. These pieces are more sensitive to agitation, additives, and prolonged soaking.
This section applies to only our naturally dyed silk charmeuse (all colors except black).
How to Clean
- Hand wash cold using a mild, pH-neutral detergent
- Washing alone for the first wash is recommended; subsequent washes with like colors are typically fine
- Gently agitate; avoid wringing or twisting
- Avoid soaking for extended periods
- Avoid bleach, brighteners, or enzyme-based detergents
Washing only when needed helps preserve both fiber and color.
Washing Conventionally Dyed Silk Charmeuse (Midnight Black)
This section applies to our Midnight Black color-way only.
Conventionally dyed silk charmeuse is slightly more forgiving while maintaining the same softness and drape.
How to Clean
- Hand wash cold, or machine wash cold on a gentle cycle
- Use a mild detergent
- Use of a mesh bag is recommended when machine washing
- Wash with dark or like colors
Avoid bleach and fabric softeners
Drying
This section applies to our all of our silk charmeuse.
- Gently press excess water out using a clean towel
- Reshape while damp
- Hang to dry or lay flat
- Avoid direct sunlight
- Do not tumble dry
Allow garments to dry fully before storing or wearing.
Steaming or Pressing
This section applies to all of our silk charmeuse.
- Steam gently to release wrinkles
- If ironing, use a low heat setting
- With the garment inside out, press with a cloth between iron and fabric
- Use distilled water when steaming to prevent spotting
Avoid over-pressing, which can dull the fabric’s surface over time.
Stain Removal
If stain removal is necessary, test in an inconspicuous area of the garment first. You can also send a message to Flora Prisma using our contact page. If we have swatches in stock we're happy to send a free swatch for stain removal test purposes.
For small marks, Stain Solution (Fragrance Free) by The Laundress is typically a safe option for use on our natural dyes.
Storage
- Store garments clean and fully dry
- Hang on padded or non-slip hangers, or fold carefully to avoid creasing
- Avoid prolonged exposure to light
- For seasonal storage, use a breathable garment bag
Thoughtful storage helps preserve color and prevent unnecessary wear.
Refreshing Between Wears
Silk often benefits from rest rather than frequent washing.
- Air out garments between wears
- Light steaming refreshes fabric and shape
Reducing wash frequency helps maintain both luster and color.
Have a specific care question?
We're here to help! Please reach out to us using our contact page.
