Do's and Don'ts of Washing Pajamas: Keep Them Soft

Quick Answer

To wash pajamas correctly, always check the care label, use cold water on a gentle cycle, and air dry flat. Avoid hot water, harsh detergents, and the dryer to preserve softness and fit. Specific fabrics like silk and modal need extra care, so follow the steps below for best results.

Your favorite pajamas deserve more than a toss in the washing machine. Whether they're made of breathable TENCEL™ Modal, delicate silk, or soft cotton, proper care can make them last for years. In this guide, we'll walk you through the do's and don'ts of washing pajamas, so you can keep them feeling as good as new.

From understanding care labels to mastering the art of air drying, these simple steps will help you avoid common laundry mistakes that lead to fading, shrinking, and fabric damage. Let's dive into the best practices for keeping your sleepwear soft and comfortable.

Read the Care Label First

Before you do anything, check the care label on your pajamas. It provides specific instructions for water temperature, drying methods, and whether ironing is safe. Different fabrics require different care: silk might need hand washing, while cotton can often handle a machine wash. Following the label is the first step to avoiding damage.

If you've cut off the label or it's faded, use your best judgment based on the fabric. For example, Eberjey's Gisele Printed TENCEL™ Modal Long PJ Set is made with a buttery soft fabric that benefits from gentle washing. When in doubt, opt for the most delicate cycle and cold water.

• Keep a permanent marker to note care instructions if you remove labels.
• For mixed fabrics, follow the most delicate care instruction.

Sort and Prep Your Pajamas

Separate your pajamas by color and fabric type. Dark colors can bleed onto lighter ones, so wash darks together. Delicate items like silk and lace should be washed separately or in a mesh laundry bag to prevent snagging. Turn pajamas inside out to protect the outer surface and any prints or embellishments.

Close any buttons or zippers to prevent them from catching on other items. For sets with drawstrings, tie them loosely to avoid tangling. This prep work takes only a few minutes but can significantly extend the life of your sleepwear.

• Use a mesh bag for delicate items like silk eye masks or lace trim.
• Wash like colors together to prevent color transfer.

Choose the Right Detergent and Cycle

Select a mild, liquid detergent that is free of harsh chemicals and optical brighteners. These can fade colors and break down fibers over time. For silk and other delicate fabrics, consider a detergent specifically formulated for delicates. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, as they can damage the fabric's natural softness and absorbency.

Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water. Hot water can cause shrinking and fading, especially for natural fibers like cotton and TENCEL™ Modal. The gentle cycle reduces agitation, which helps maintain the shape and integrity of your pajamas.

• Look for detergents labeled 'free and clear' or 'delicate.'
• Never use chlorine bleach on any sleepwear.

Drying: The Critical Step

The dryer is the enemy of soft, long-lasting pajamas. High heat can shrink cotton, damage elastic waistbands, and cause silk to lose its luster. Instead, air dry your pajamas by laying them flat on a clean towel or hanging them on a drying rack. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors.

If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove the pajamas while they are still slightly damp. This reduces the risk of over-drying and helps maintain softness. For silk items like the Eberjey x Lily Aldridge Inez Washable Silk Printed Eye Mask, always air dry to preserve the fabric's delicate nature.

• Lay flat to dry for knits to prevent stretching.
• Hang dry for woven fabrics like silk, but avoid clothespins that can leave marks.

Step-by-Step Pajama Washing Routine

1. Step 1: Read the care label: Check the label for specific instructions on water temperature, drying, and ironing. Follow them precisely to avoid damage. Common mistake: Ignoring the label and using hot water on delicate fabrics.
2. Step 2: Turn inside out and zip up: Turn pajamas inside out to protect the outer surface. Close all buttons and zippers to prevent snagging. Checkpoint: Ensure all fasteners are secured before washing.
3. Step 3: Use cold water and gentle detergent: Select a mild liquid detergent and set the washer to a delicate cycle with cold water. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Common mistake: Using regular detergent with brighteners that fade colors.
4. Step 4: Air dry flat or hang: Lay pajamas flat on a towel or hang them on a rack. Avoid direct sunlight and never use a high-heat dryer. Checkpoint: If using a dryer, use the lowest heat and remove while slightly damp.

Products That Care for Your Sleep

• Gisele Printed TENCEL™ Modal Long PJ Set: Made from TENCEL™ Modal fibers and a touch of elastane, this buttery soft fabric is verified by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, meaning it’s dyed with safe and non-toxic dyes. This fabric is gentle on skin and the environment, but it still needs proper washing to maintain its softness. Use cold water and air dry to keep the modal fibers in top condition.
• Eberjey x Lily Aldridge - Inez Washable Silk Printed Eye Mask: Made from 100% mulberry silk, produced using bluesign®-certified processes and verified by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100. Silk is delicate and requires special care. Hand wash or use a delicate cycle with cold water and always air dry to preserve the silk's natural sheen and longevity.
• Nautico Relaxed Short Sleeve & Pant PJ Set: Made from ECOVERO™ Viscose and breathable Cotton, this fabric is verified by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, meaning it was processed without harmful chemicals. This breathable blend is perfect for warm sleepers, but cotton can shrink if washed in hot water. Stick to cold washes and air drying to keep the fit relaxed and comfortable.

By following these do's and don'ts of washing pajamas, you can extend the life of your favorite sleepwear and keep it feeling soft and comfortable night after night. Remember to always check the care label, use gentle methods, and air dry whenever possible. Your pajamas—and your skin—will thank you.