A good scarf can last for years, or lose its colour and shape in a few careless washes. Different fabrics need different care, so here is a simple, fabric-by-fabric guide to washing and looking after your scarves and hijabs.
The golden rules
Whatever the fabric, three habits protect every scarf: wash in cool water, dry away from direct sun (which fades dye), and store loosely rather than crammed on a hook. Always check the care label first, and when in doubt, hand-wash.
Silk
Silk is delicate but not difficult. Hand-wash it alone in cool water with a drop of mild shampoo or a delicate detergent, swirl gently rather than scrubbing, and never wring it. Roll it in a towel to press out water, then dry flat in the shade. Iron on the lowest setting from the reverse while slightly damp. Keep bleach and alcohol well away, as they strip the finish.
Jersey and modal
The easy everyday fabrics. Jersey and modal hijabs can usually be machine-washed on a gentle, cool cycle in a laundry bag, or hand-washed. Avoid high heat in the dryer, which can shrink or bobble them; hang or lay flat to dry and they need little to no ironing.
Chiffon and georgette
Chiffon is light and a little fragile. Hand-wash in cool water, do not wring, and hang to dry. Iron on a low, dry setting through a thin cloth if needed. These fabrics snag easily, so keep them away from rough surfaces and jewellery.
Cotton and viscose
Cotton and viscose are hard-wearing and can generally be machine-washed cool. Cotton creases, so iron while slightly damp; viscose is weaker when wet, so handle it gently and reshape it as it dries.
Wool, cashmere and pashmina
Warm fabrics need the gentlest hand. Hand-wash wool, cashmere and pashmina in cool water with a wool-safe detergent, never wring, press out water in a towel, and dry flat to keep the shape (hanging stretches them). Store folded with a cedar block to deter moths, not on a hanger.
Storing scarves so they last
Fold or loosely roll scarves rather than hanging them by one end, which distorts the shape over time. A scarf hanger or organiser keeps them crease-free and easy to see. Keep silks and delicates separate from anything that could snag them.
The payoff
Five minutes of the right care is the difference between a scarf that looks new for years and one that fades after a season. Match the method to the fabric, and your collection will keep earning its place.