As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that washable silk should never be put in the dryer. The high heat and tumbling action of the dryer can damage the delicate fibers of the silk fabric, resulting in shrinkage, loss of shape, and potential fabric damage.
Instead, it is best to remove excess water from the silk garment before drying. One method is to place the wet garment on a clean, white cotton towel. The towel will absorb some of the moisture from the silk without causing any harm. Gently fold the towel over the silk and lightly press down to blot the excess water. Be careful not to rub or wring the fabric, as this can cause stretching or distortion.
Once you have removed as much water as possible, it is time to hang the silk garment to dry. However, it is important to use a padded hanger to avoid leaving any marks or indentations on the delicate fabric. A padded hanger helps distribute the weight of the garment evenly and prevents any unnecessary stress on the silk fibers.
To hang the silk blouse or dress, find a suitable location such as a bathroom where you can hang the garment over the bathtub. This way, any remaining water will drip directly into the tub and not onto your floors or furniture. Gently drape the silk garment over the padded hanger, making sure it is evenly spread out to maintain its shape.
Leave the silk garment to air dry naturally. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near any sources of heat, as this can cause the silk to fade or become damaged. Depending on the humidity and air circulation in your home, it may take a few hours or even overnight for the silk to fully dry.
It is worth noting that silk can be a bit temperamental when it comes to washing and drying. It is always a good idea to check the care label or manufacturer's instructions for specific guidance on how to care for your particular silk garment. If in doubt, err on the side of caution and hand wash or seek professional dry cleaning to ensure the longevity of your silk items.
In my personal experience, I have made the mistake of putting a silk blouse in the dryer once, and it resulted in shrinkage and loss of shape. The delicate fabric became wrinkled and uneven, and I had to invest in professional steaming to try to salvage it. Since then, I have been very careful to follow the proper care instructions for silk and have avoided using the dryer altogether.
To summarize, washable silk should never be put in the dryer. Instead, remove excess water by blotting with a white cotton towel, and then hang the silk garment to dry using a padded hanger. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources, and allow the silk to air dry naturally. Remember to always check the care label or manufacturer's instructions for specific guidance on caring for your silk items.