The Silk Protocol: Sun Rot and Water Rings
Silk is the most fragile material in the home. This protocol is contactless by design.
Sun rot prevention
Silk is a protein fiber that degrades in sunlight and stains with water rings. Home cleaning often causes more damage than the spill.
This protocol limits contact, prioritizes dust control, and escalates stains immediately to specialists.
Asset card
Baseline material data before any intervention.
The forbidden list
These actions cause irreversible fiber damage.
Never use water
Even a drop of clean water can leave a permanent ring as the sizing or dye shifts.
Never use enzyme cleaners
Silk is a protein fiber. Enzyme cleaners are designed to break down protein and will damage the fabric.
Never place in direct sunlight
Sunlight turns silk brittle and yellow within months.
The diagnostic: the "Shatter" check
Silk does not just fade; it rots.
- Gently pinch a hidden corner of older silk curtains or upholstery.
- If it makes a crunching sound or feels stiff, the fibers have suffered UV degradation. Professional cleaning may shred it. Proceed with caution.
The step-by-step protocol
- The "Contactless" Clean: Silk should be touched as little as possible. Oils from human hands degrade the fibers over time.
- Dusting: Use a vacuum on the lowest possible setting with a clean horsehair brush. Place a nylon stocking over the nozzle to prevent snagging threads.
- Stain Management: Do not attempt to clean a wet stain at home. Blot gently with a dry cloth to remove excess liquid, then call a specialist immediately.
- The "Shake" (Curtains): Do not vacuum silk drapes. Gently shake them to dislodge dust, let it settle on the floor, then vacuum the floor.
Maintenance schedule
Window film application.
If you have silk upholstery near a window, you must have UV-blocking film applied to the glass. Without it, the silk will disintegrate within 2-3 years.