How do I machine wash delicates without ruining them?

Knits, silk and lace can go in the machine if you set it up properly. Check these four things before you press start.

Pick the right cycle

Wool for knits. Delicates for silk and lace.

Spin on the lowest

A fast spin presses wet clothes hard against the drum and twists them. That is what stretches straps and pulls knits out of shape. On most machines the delicates cycle doesn't start on the lowest spin, so check it.

Mesh bag, drum two thirds full

A mesh bag stops hooks, straps and lace catching on other clothes. Don't run a full load. In a packed drum the clothes can't move, so they rub against each other and get wrung tight in the spin.

Cold, gentle, lay flat

Cold water and a gentle soap, then lay flat on a towel to dry. Wet fabric is heavy. On a hanger that weight pulls a knit longer and leaves bumps at the shoulders.

Pro-tip

Kerzon Maille Câline is made for wool, cashmere, silk and lace. It cleans and softens in one go, so you can skip the softener. Use it in the machine or for hand washing.