How to wash and care for your Hermès scarf:

Dry cleaning: the official method

Hermès' official recommendation is clear: dry cleaning only. This is the safest method, especially for vintage scarves whose dyes are more fragile than those of recent editions.

Not all dry cleaners are equal. Choose a specialized luxury dry cleaner; the service is also offered at Hermès at 24 Faubourg, and make sure to specify that it's an Hermès scarf. No mistreatment of scarves.

I personally never wash the scarves I wear by hand, and especially not those I sell; they are all taken to a competent and trusted dry cleaner. I do not recommend hand washing, which is why I will not describe it here.

Everyday habits to avoid

Caring for an Hermès scarf begins even before washing. The most common mistakes:

Perfume: never spray perfume directly on silk. The alcohol in perfumes degrades fibers and dyes. Apply your perfume before tying your scarf, and let it dry.

Jewelry: avoid contact with sharp-edged jewelry or metal fasteners that can snag silk threads.

Beauty products: creams, makeup... it is always best to avoid contact with silk.

Storage:

Storage is as important as cleaning, especially for vintage collector's items.

Store your scarves flat in a drawer or box—ideally wrapped in neutral tissue paper. The environment should be dry and away from direct light. If you store them in their original Hermès boxes, avoid compressing them too much.

For cashmere and silk shawls, a cedar block or a lavender sachet nearby protects against moths.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an Hermès scarf be machine washed? No, absolutely not.

How often should an Hermès scarf be cleaned? As infrequently as possible. Unnecessary cleaning wears out the silk. Clean only in case of a visible stain or after prolonged wear.

How to remove a stain from an Hermès scarf? Blot immediately with a clean, dry cloth without rubbing. For a serious stain, take the scarf to a specialized dry cleaner as quickly as possible without attempting to treat it yourself.

How to store a vintage Hermès scarf? Flat in a drawer or box, wrapped in neutral tissue paper, in a dry place and away from light. Avoid plastic bags that retain moisture.