No suit is complete without a necktie. The tie brings the outfit together, adding a new element of color and style to achieve a cohesive appearance. While neckties are available in several different fabrics, silk is the preferred choice among many guys, and rightfully so: it offers a timeless, luxurious look that's unmatched by other fabrics. But one of the downsides to wearing a silk tie is the increased difficult of cleaning it.
Silk is a very delicate material, making it prone to damage when washed using traditional methods like a washing machine and clothes dryer. It may not happen the first time, but placing your silk tie in the washing machine can and will cause damage to it. So, does this mean you should choose ties that are made of different fabrics and materials? Not necessarily, as there are ways to safely c lean a silk tie without damaging it.
Read the Care Label
I know this probably sounds like common sense, but it's still worth mentioning that you should check the care label of your silk tie. This label, created by the manufacturer, should provide instructions on how to clean it. Some silk ties may state "dry clean only," meaning the tie should only be cleaned by a professional dry cleaning facility. Other silk ties may be cleaned using cold water. Before you even think of cleaning your silk tie, check the care label to see what method is recommended by the manufacturer.
Spot Cleaning
While some silk ties may state as "cold water" as being an acceptable means of cleaning, silk and water DO NOT go together. Water doesn't necessarily damage silk, but it will make the fibers weaker and more susceptible to damage. To protect your silk tie from damage and preserve its original appearance, it's recommended that you try to avoid washing or otherwise cleaning it using water.
When you notice a stain on your silk tie, try to clean it in a timely manner using the "spot treatment" method. Assuming it's a minor stain (e.g. soda), blot up as much of the stain as possible with a dry washcloth. Next, pour a small amount of distilled water onto the washcloth and gently blot the area again. Continue doing this until the stain is no longer visible, at which point you can lay the tie out to dry. Once it has finished drying, it should be good to go!
