Satin is considered a luxury fabric for its smooth and glossy finish, achieved via a complex weaving method. The fabric originated in ancient China as it was made solely of silk at first. But today, satin is made from a blend of materials such as silk, polyester, cotton, nylon, and rayon.

That is why satin offers a luxurious silky finish and can be used to create stunning dresses for a fraction of the cost. However, there is always the risk of snagging that can ruin satin, which makes it a delicate fabric to use. 

For more information about satin, you can check out: What is satin? Bridesmaid dress fabric catalog

Satin comes in many different finishes because it has many types. Here is a quick and comprehensive guide on the types of satin fabric:

• Duchess satin: Heavy, luxurious, and stiff with a low sheen; ideal for bridal and evening wear.
• Polyester satin: Affordable, shiny, and durable but less breathable than silk satin.
• Charmeuse satin: Lightweight, drapey, and glossy on one side with a dull back; great for lingerie and dresses.
• Slipper satin: Medium-weight, smooth, and sturdy with a subtle sheen; commonly used for shoes and formalwear.
• Crêpe back satin: Soft with a matte crepe texture on one side and a satin finish on the other; versatile for dresses and blouses.
• Silk satin: Natural, breathable, and ultra-soft with a luxurious sheen; the most premium type of satin.
• Messaline satin: Lightweight, very glossy, and often made of silk or rayon; perfect for evening wear and lingerie.

Learning how to wash satin by yourself usually requires a sacrifice of a few precious satin dresses. To help you avoid that, here are our step-by-step instructions on how to clean satin material:

1. Read the Care Label

Different types of satin (e.g., polyester, silk, or blended) require different washing methods. And where can you find these instructions? The care label, of course! It provides crucial information on how to properly clean the satin dress without causing damage.

For example, silk satin is highly delicate and often labeled “dry clean only”, meaning hand or machine washing could cause shrinkage, loss of sheen, or fabric distortion. If the label allows hand washing, proceed cautiously with mild detergent and cold water.

2. Treat Any Stains Beforehand

Stains set quickly on satin, so pretreat them before washing. Use one of the following methods based on the type of stain:

• Oil-based stains (makeup, grease, lotion): Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder on the stain, let it absorb for 15–20 minutes, then gently brush off.
• Water-based stains (wine, coffee, sweat): Dab with a mixture of cold water and mild detergent or white vinegar. Never rub it because this can damage the fibers.
• Ink or dye stains: Use a small amount of rubbing alcohol or diluted hydrogen peroxide on a cotton swab, testing on an inconspicuous area first.

3. Wash and Rinse the Dress

According to all the experts, handwashing is the safer method for cleaning satin compared to machine washing. Here are some simple steps on how to wash satin by hand:

• Fill a clean basin with cold water and add a few drops of mild detergent.
• Submerge the dress, gently swishing it around for a few minutes. Avoid excessive agitation.
• Rinse thoroughly with cold water until all soap is removed. Never wring or twist the fabric, as this can cause wrinkles and damage.

If machine washing is allowed— which is rare for delicate satin— use a gentle cycle, cold water, and a mesh laundry bag to prevent snags.

4. Dry the Dress in Open Air

Lay the dress flat on a clean, dry towel and roll it gently to remove excess water. Unroll and reshape the fabric, then lay it flat or hang it on a padded hanger in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight and tumble drying because this can cause fading and fabric weakening.

5. Iron on Medium Heat

Use a low to medium heat setting with the iron on the reverse side of the satin. You should also place a pressing cloth (cotton or muslin) between the iron and the dress to prevent scorching. High heat can burn or melt the fabric, while low heat won’t smooth out deep wrinkles. So, the safe side is to slowly increase the heat from low to medium and find the sweet spot!

6. Store in a Cotton Cloth Bag

Once the dress is dry and ironed to perfection, it’s time to store it. Choose a clean cotton cloth bag to hang your satin bridesmaid dress in and store it in a cool, dark place to safeguard the color and texture. A cotton bag is ideal because its breathability prevents yellowing, mildew, and discoloration.

Satin is one of the most luxurious and delicate fabrics out there. With its glossy finish and beautiful weaving, it's a top pick for bridal party dresses. But figuring out how to wash satin bridesmaid dress doesn't have to be a gamble. With this blog, we’ve explained just how to clean satin material without ruining it in the process.

When Do You Need Professional Care for Your Satin Bridesmaid Dress?

Sometimes, no amount of home remedies is good enough to treat satin bridesmaid dresses. You should consider sending the dress to professional dry cleaners if you:

• Managed to splash wine, oil, or waterproof makeup on satin fabric
• Have a silk satin dress as it can shrink and fade with home washes
• Have intricate beading work done on the fabric
• Notice water stains, slight yellowing, or fabric snagging

Is Satin Prone to Yellowing?

Yes, satin, especially silk and light-colored varieties, is prone to yellowing due to oxidation, sweat, body oils, or improper storage.

Exposure to heat, humidity, and harsh detergents speeds up the discoloration. Storing satin in a cool, dry place and using mild cleaners can help prevent yellowing and preserve fabric quality.

How to Remove Stains from Satin?

Not sure how to remove that one stain from your satin bridesmaid dress? Here are some tips:

• Blot stains immediately with a clean cloth.
• Use mild detergent or a vinegar-water solution for water-based stains.
• For oil stains, apply cornstarch or talcum powder, then brush off gently.
• Avoid rubbing. Spot clean with cold water. 

Will Hot Water Ruin Satin?

Yes, hot water can ruin satin by weakening its fibers, causing shrinkage, fading, or a rough texture. Silk and delicate satins are especially vulnerable. Always use cold or lukewarm water and gentle detergent to preserve sheen and softness. Harsh washing can break down the weave, leading to fabric damage.